RNP is a navigation system that provides a specified level of accuracy defined by a lateral area of confined airspace in which an RNP-certified aircraft operates. The continuing growth of aviation places increasing demands on airspace capacity and emphasizes the need for the best use of the available airspace. These factors, along with the accuracy of modern aviation navigation systems and the requirement for increased operational efficiency in terms of direct routings and track-keeping accuracy, have resulted in the concept of required navigation performance—a statement of the navigation performance accuracy necessary for operation within a defined airspace. RNP can include both performance and functional requirements and is indicated by the RNP type. These standards are intended for designers, manufacturers, and installers of avionics equipment, as well as service providers and users of these systems for global operations. The minimum aviation system performance specification (MASPS) provides guidance for the development of airspace and operational procedures needed to obtain the benefits of improved navigation capability. [Figure]
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| Required navigation performance |
The RNP type defines the total system error (TSE) that is allowed in lateral and longitudinal dimensions within a particular airspace. The TSE, which takes account of navigation system errors (NSE), computation errors, display errors and flight technical errors (FTE), must not exceed the specified RNP value for 95 percent of the flight time on any part of any single flight. RNP combines the accuracy standards laid out in the ICAO Manual (Doc 9613) with specific accuracy requirements, as well as functional and performance standards, for the RNAV system to realize a system that can meet future air traffic management requirements. The functional criteria for RNP address the need for the flightpaths of participating aircraft to be both predictable and repeatable to the declared levels of accuracy.
Aircraft Capability + Level of Service = Access
In this context, aircraft capability refers to the airworthiness certification and operational approval elements (including avionics, maintenance, database, human factors, pilot procedures, training, and other issues). The level of service element refers to the NAS infrastructure, including published routes, signal-in-space performance and availability, and air traffic management. When considered collectively, these elements result in providing access. Access provides the desired benefit (airspace, procedures, routes of flight, etc.).
RNP levels are actual distances from the centerline of the flightpath, which must be maintained for aircraft and obstacle separation. Although additional FAA-recognized RNP levels may be used for specific operations, the United States currently supports three standard RNP levels:
- RNP 0.3 – Approach
- RNP 1.0 – Departure, Terminal
- RNP 2.0 – En route
RNP 0.3 represents a distance of 0.3 NM either side of a specified flightpath centerline. The specific performance that is required on the final approach segment of an instrument approach is an example of this RNP level. At the present time, a 0.3 RNP level is the lowest level used in normal RNAV operations. Specific airlines, using special procedures, are approved to use RNP levels lower than RNP 0.3, but those levels are used only in accordance with their approved operations specifications (OpsSpecs). For aircraft equipment to qualify for a specific RNP type, it must maintain navigational accuracy at least 95 percent of the total flight time.