Definition
A category of RNAV (RNP) instrument approach procedure that may only be flown by operators whose aircraft and aircrew have received specific FAA authorization. SAAAR approaches use tighter-than-standard RNP values (often below RNP 0.3), may include curved (RF) flight path segments, and are designed for terrain-challenged or obstacle-rich environments where conventional approaches are not viable. The term has been largely superseded in current FAA documentation by AR (Authorization Required), but SAAAR still appears in older charts, publications, and training material.
Plain English
A special kind of GPS-based approach that ordinary pilots and aircraft are not allowed to fly. To use it, both the airplane and the crew must be specifically approved by the FAA, because the approach demands very precise navigation and often involves curved paths through tight terrain.
Context Anchor
Seen on certain instrument approach charts and in approach naming discussions, especially where a procedure requires special approval before it may be flown.
Derivation
The name is descriptive: 'Special Aircraft and Aircrew Authorization Required' spells out exactly what it demands. 'Special' signals it is outside the normal approach categories, and 'Authorization Required' makes clear that approval is not automatic — it must be applied for and granted before the procedure can be flown.
Why Pilots Care
A pilot without the required authorization is not legally permitted to fly the approach, which protects safety on procedures that demand higher precision.
Intuition Check
Do not read SAAAR as meaning simply “advanced” or “difficult.” It means special FAA authorization is required before using the procedure.
Example Sentence 1
The crew briefed the standard ILS instead of the SAAAR approach because their operator had not obtained the required authorization.
Example Sentence 2
SAAAR approval must be documented in the aircraft records and the pilot's training file.