Definition
A GPS receiver mode in which the unit is prevented from automatically advancing to the next waypoint in the flight plan, holding the active waypoint fixed so the navigation display continues to provide guidance to that single point. It is selected when the pilot needs to fly a procedure such as a holding pattern, procedure turn, or course reversal at a specific fix without the receiver treating the fix as passed.
Plain English
A setting that tells the GPS to stay locked on the current waypoint instead of moving on to the next one once you fly over it.
Context Anchor
Seen when using GPS or other advanced avionics to fly or set up a holding pattern, such as holding over an NDB or compass locator.
Derivation
From 'non-' (not) and 'sequencing' (following one after another in order). The GPS would normally sequence — step through waypoints in order — as each is reached. Nonsequencing turns that stepping behavior off.
Why Pilots Care
Keeps the aircraft on the holding fix without the GPS sequencing away from it.
Grounding Statement
In a holding pattern, nonsequencing keeps the active navigation point from changing each time the aircraft passes the holding point.
Intuition Check
Nonsequencing does not mean the navigator has stopped working. It means the navigator has stopped automatically moving on to the next point.
Example Sentence 1
Before entering the hold over the compass locator, the pilot placed the GPS in nonsequencing mode so guidance would remain on the fix.
Example Sentence 2
Nonsequencing mode held the display on the NDB while the aircraft flew the pattern.