Definition
An instrument approach procedure based on Area Navigation (RNAV), allowing the aircraft to fly a published path to a runway by navigating directly between defined waypoints rather than tracking signals from ground-based navigation aids. RNAV approaches use onboard navigation systems (typically GPS, often augmented by WAAS) to provide lateral and, in many cases, vertical guidance to landing minimums.
Plain English
A type of instrument approach where the aircraft follows a path made up of GPS waypoints down to the runway, instead of tracking radio signals from ground stations.
Context Anchor
You will see this term on instrument approach charts, in navigation system menus, and in clearances from air traffic control when arriving at an airport in instrument conditions.
Derivation
RNAV stands for Area Navigation. The term was coined to describe navigation along any desired path within an 'area' of coverage, rather than only along straight lines between fixed ground stations. The word 'approach' here means the published procedure for descending from cruise to land.
Why Pilots Care
RNAV approaches let pilots land at more airports in low visibility without needing an expensive ground-based system like an ILS.
Intuition Check
Do not read “RNAV Approach” as “any approach using GPS.” It means a specific published instrument procedure that must be flown as charted with suitable navigation equipment.
Example Sentence 1
Cleared for the RNAV (GPS) Runway 27 approach, the pilot loaded the procedure in the GPS and began tracking inbound to the first waypoint.
Example Sentence 2
ATC cleared the flight for the RNAV Approach, so the crew loaded the procedure into the flight management system.