Definition
Fixed, charted area navigation routes that pilots can fly using onboard RNAV equipment without relying on traditional ground-based navigation aids. Published RNAV routes include Q-routes (high-altitude RNAV routes used in the jet route structure) and T-routes (low-altitude RNAV routes used in the Victor airway structure). They are depicted on en route charts and may be flown by aircraft with suitable RNAV equipment as authorized by the FAA.
Plain English
These are pre-set routes drawn on aeronautical charts that an aircraft flies using its own navigation system, instead of having to track from one ground radio beacon to the next. The high-altitude versions are called Q-routes; the low-altitude versions are called T-routes.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument en route charts and in instrument procedure discussions, especially when planning or flying point-to-point routes such as T-routes or Q-routes.
Derivation
RNAV stands for area navigation -- the ability to fly any desired path within the coverage of navigation signals, rather than being tied to flying directly to or from ground stations. 'Published' simply means the route is officially charted and named, so any properly equipped aircraft can request and fly it.
Why Pilots Care
They provide standardized, safe paths that reduce pilot workload and maintain separation from traffic and obstacles.
Intuition Check
Do not read published as merely “written down somewhere.” In this context, published means officially charted and available for authorized use. Do not read RNAV route as just any direct GPS shortcut. It is a specific charted route with defined points and requirements.
Example Sentence 1
For the cross-country, the pilot filed a published RNAV route at FL350 instead of stringing together several jet airways.
Example Sentence 2
ATC cleared the flight onto Published RNAV Routes after weather forced a change from the original airway.