The latest issue of FAA Satellite News includes a reminder that WAAS LPV (localizer performance with vertical guidance) approach plates for runway ends won’t be listed as WAAS LPV, “or at least not in plain sight like you would see on an ILS approach plate.” According to the agency, an LPV is considered a “precision like” approach procedure.
For example, Runway 6 at Nantucket Memorial (ACK) has both an ILS and an LPV. One approach plate outlines the ILS or localizer approach with the title on top clearly stating it is an approach plate for the ILS or localizer approach. However, the LPV approach plate for the same runway is titled as an RNAV (GPS) approach.
“The older GPS based non-precision approach format is being phased out with a newer format prefaced by the acronym RNAV,” said the FAA. “An example would be the change from ‘GPS RWY 18’ to ‘RNAV (GPS) RWY 18.’ All GPS-based approaches moving forward are RNAV—to include LPV, LNAV/VNAV, LNAV, LP, and stand-alone GPS approaches. When looking for an LPV line of minimums at the runway end, it will be titled RNAV (GPS) RWY XX.”
The FAA has certified close to 4,500 LPV procedures, and more than 90,000 general aviation aircraft, including about 8,000 business jets and turboprops, are equipped to fly WAAS-enabled LPV or LP procedures.