RNP AR procedures require authorization analogous to the special authorization required for Category II or III ILS procedures
All operators require specific authorization from the FAA to fly any RNP AR approach or departure procedure
The FAA issues RNP AR authorization via operations specification (OpSpec), management specification (MSpec), or letter of authorization (LOA)
There are no exceptions. Operators can find comprehensive information on RNP AR aircraft eligibility, operating procedures, and training requirements in AC 90-101, Approval Guidance for RNP Procedures with AR
Unique Characteristics of RNP AR Operations Approach Title:
The FAA titles all RNP AR instrument approach procedures (IAP) as "RNAV (RNP) RWY XX"
Internationally, operators may find RNP AR IAPs titled "RNP RWY XX (AR)
All RNP AR procedures will clearly state "Authorization Required" on the procedure chart
RNP value:
RNP AR procedures are characterized by use of a lateral Obstacle Evaluation Area (OEA) equal to two times the RNP value (2 x RNP) in nautical miles
No secondary lateral OEA or additional buffers are used
RNP AR procedures require a minimum lateral accuracy value of RNP 0.30
Each published line of minima in an RNP AR procedure has an associated RNP value that defines the procedure's lateral performance requirement in the Final Approach Segment
Each approved RNP AR operator's FAA-issued authorization will identify a minimum authorized RNP approach value
This value may vary depending on aircraft configuration or operational procedures (e.g., use of flight director or autopilot)
Radius-to-fix (RF) legs:
Many RNP AR IFPs contain RF legs
Aircraft eligibility for RF legs is required in any authorization for RNP AR operations
Missed Approach RNP value less than 1.00 NM:
Some RNP AR IFPs require an RNP lateral accuracy value of less than 1.00 NM in the missed approach segment
The operator's FAA-issued RNP AR authorization will specify whether the operator may fly a missed approach procedure requiring a lateral accuracy value less than 1.00 NM
AC 90-101 identifies specific operating procedures and training requirements applicable to this aspect of RNP AR procedures
Non-standard Speeds or Climb Gradients:
RNP AR approaches may require non-standard approach speeds and/or missed approach climb gradients
RNP AR approach charts will reflect any non-standard requirements and pilots must confirm they can meet those requirements before commencing the approach
RNP AR Departure Procedures (RNP AR DP):
Example of an RNP AR DP
RNP AR approach authorization is a mandatory prerequisite for an operator to be eligible to perform RNP AR DPs [Figure 1]
RNP AR DPs can utilize a minimum RNP value of RNP 0.30, may include higher than standard climb gradients, and may include RF turns
Close in RF turns associated with RNP AR DPs may begin as soon as the departure end of the runway (DER)
For specific eligibility guidance, operators should refer to AC 90-101
Example of an RNP AR DP
Conclusion:
To learn more about instrument procedures, be sure to check out the Instrument Procedures Handbook online or in paperback
