RNP- 4 / RNP-10
Required navigation performance (RNP) is a type of performance-based navigation (PBN) that allows an aircraft to fly a specific path between two 3D-defined points in space. Area navigation (RNAV) and RNP systems are fundamentally similar. The key difference between them is the requirement for on-board performance monitoring and alerting. A navigation specification that includes a requirement for on-board navigation performance monitoring and alerting is referred to as an RNP specification. One not having such a requirement is referred to as an RNAV specification. Therefore, if ATC radar monitoring is not provided, safe navigation in respect to terrain shall be self-monitored by the pilot and RNP shall be used instead of RNAV. RNP also refers to the level of performance required for a specific procedure or a specific block of airspace. An RNP of 10 means that a navigation system must be able to calculate its position to within a square with a lateral dimension of 10 nautical miles. An RNP of 0.3 means the aircraft navigation system must be able to calculate its position to within a square with a lateral dimension of 3/10 of a nautical mile. The differences in these systems are typically a function of on-board navigational system redundancies.  Some oceanic airspace has an RNP capability value of 4 or 10. The level of RNP an aircraft is capable of determines the separation required between aircraft with respect to distance. Improved accuracy of on-board RNP systems represent a significant advantage to traditional non-radar environments, since the number of aircraft that can fit into a volume of airspace. The lower the RNP value, the lower the required distance separation standards, and in general, the more aircraft can fit into a volume of airspace. RNP approaches with RNP values currently down to 0.1 allow aircraft to follow precise three-dimensional curved flight paths through congested airspace, around noise sensitive areas, or through difficult terrain. An FAA Letter of Authority (LOA) grants authority for operations requiring RNP in section B039. Application for B039 requires specific equipment capabilities and flightcrew training depending on the geographical area(s) in which you anticipate operating. The process for completing a submission for RNP operating authority can be frustrating and time consuming. With AVPRO Resources, Inc. you can focus on operating your flight department while we remain entirely focused on ensuring you obtain operating authorities quickly, efficiently and professionally.
AVPRO Resources, Inc. Phone: (817) 228-4541 Fax: (817) 394-2450 eMail: info@avproresources.com