P-RNAV

James Albright (a former G450 driver)

Updated: 2014-02-03

I think P-RNAV is giving way to RNP-1 under Performance Based Navigation but even if that isn't true, if you plan on flying in Europe you still P-RNAV authorization and that means you will need specific training and either an LOA or Operations Specification. More about: P-RNAV.

The QRH and AFM have P-RNAV checklists, which I've summarized below. I don't think a specific P-RNAV checklist is necessary if you always fly using these procedures:

  • Check GPS NOTAMS, exclude satellites as required.

  • Check RAIM, know that you can continue in the U.S. and JAA countries with DME/DME.

  • Verify departure and arrival waypoints against the charted procedures.

Everything here is from the references shown below, with a few comments in an alternate color.

 Pre-Flight

[G450 Airplane Flight Manual, §02-08-110] NOTE: These procedures are based on a Dual FMS / RNAV capability with the standard worldwide database installed in the airplane. If dispatching with a single FMS / RNAV capability, verify that the P-RNAV procedure allows the procedure to be flown with a single system.

image.png

Photo: MCDU Nav Ident Page

1. Verify database is current and is applicable to the region.

You do this every flight per the before starting engines checklist.

 

Photo: MCDU Pilot Select RAIM page

2. Verify RAIM availability for the procedure to be flown.

Your flight planning service should let you know about RAIM outages. Under AC 90-96A and JAA TGL No. 10, Rev 1 RAIM is required only if you are GPS-only, but if you don't have RAIM it would be considered good form to verify with ATC that they permit P-RNAV based on DME/DME/IRU.

 
image.png

Photo: MCDU Position Init Page, Loaded

3. Confirm correct Initial Position has been entered in all FMSs.

You do this every flight per the before starting engines checklist.

4. Check and verify active flight plan (MCDU and Map display) with the available charts, STAR, or other applicable documents.

You do this every flight per the before starting engines checklist.

5. The addition of pilot entered waypoints to the P-RNAV procedure is prohibited. The procedure may only be altered by radar vectors or “Direct-to” clearances.

 Departure

Photo: MCDU Progress Page 1, GPS-D

1. Prior to takeoff, verify FMS RNAV is available and operating correctly.

The procedure's first waypoint should be your TO waypoint in the FMS. On PROGRESS Page 1, you should see "GPS" or "GPS-D" displayed.

2. Prior to takeoff, update FMS Runway Position. If departing from an intersection, perform a manual Position Update to the current GPS position. If GPS is unavailable, depart using conventional navigation until DME / DME updating is attained and FMS position is updated. A transition to P-RNAV is then permitted.

You should not do this if GPS is available. If GPS is not available and your mode is IRU, it will take several minutes for the system to switch to DME/DME, as the switch only happens after DME/DME EPU becomes 40% better than the IRU EPU.

3. After takeoff and where feasible, monitor flight progress with reference to conventional NAVAIDs using the PFD and Map Display in conjunction with the MCDU.

 

ARRIVAL

  1. Prior to arrival, verify that the correct terminal procedure has been loaded.

    You should do this every flight, regardless of P-RNAV.

  2. Check and verify active flight plan (MCDU and Map display) with the available charts, SID, or other applicable documents.

    AC 90-96A requires you to compare each waypoint on the chart with the map display and MCDU, including track angles and distances.

  3. The addition of pilot entered waypoints to the P-RNAV procedure is prohibited. The procedure may only be altered by radar vectors or “Direct-to” clearances.

  4. During the procedure, monitor flight progress with reference to conventional NAVAIDs using the PFD and Map display in conjunction with the MCDU.

 

CONTINGENCIES

In the event of failure of the RNAV system components including the autopilot and / or flight director, multiple system failures, navigation sensors failure, or extended coasting on the IRS position, the flight crew shall notify ATC of degraded navigation capability.

In the event of lost communications, continue with the P-RNAV procedure in accordance with the published lost communication procedure.

In the event of the complete loss of P-RNAV capability, notify ATC and continue navigation using either the IRS navigation mode of the FMS or conventional VOR / DME NAVAIDs.

 References:

Advisory Circular 90-96A, Approval of U.S. Operators and Aircraft to Operate Under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) in European Airspace Designated for Basic Area Navigation (B-RNAV) and Precision Area Navigation (P-RNAV), 1/13/05, U.S. Department of Transportation

FAA Orders 8400 and 8900

Gulfstream G450 Airplane Flight Manual, Revision 36, December 5, 2013

ICAO Doc 7030 - Regional Supplementary Procedures, International Civil Aviation Organization, 2008

ICAO Doc 9613 - Performance Based Navigation (PBN) Manual, International Civil Aviation Organization, 2008

JAA Administrative & Guidance Material Temporary Guidance Leaflet No. 10 - Airworthiness and Operational Approval for Precision RNAV Operations in Designated European Airspace, 0.11.00

Jeppesen Airway Manual