Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and area navigation (RNAV) benefiting general aviation

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and general aviation (GA) industry are working collaboratively to publish lower minimum en route altitudes (MEAs) for Global Positioning System (GPS)-equipped aircraft operating at low altitudes, and more direct transition routes through Class B airspace based on area navigation (RNAV) (commonly achieved in GA aircraft with GPS). These efforts are intended to improve access to airspace, safety of flight, and seamless RNAV operations in the NAS - in accordance with the FAA's roadmap to performance-based navigation published in July 2003. The roadmap initiatives were developed jointly by FAA and industry under the sponsorship of the Performance-Based Operations Aviation Rulemaking Committee (PARC). The GA representation on that committee was provided by Aircraft Owner's and Pilot's Association (AOPA), who was spearheading the movement toward achieving benefits with GPS and spurring a growth rate in aircraft equipage. This paper presents the concepts of use for lower MEAs based on GPS and RNAV transition routes through Class B airspace. The paper also provides a description of the benefits and an outline of the implementation strategy.