RNAV

RNAV (Area Navigation) is a method of navigation that allows aircraft to fly on any desired flight path within the coverage of referenced navigation aids or within the limits of onboard navigation equipment capability. Unlike conventional navigation (flying from beacon to beacon), RNAV enables point-to-point flight.

RNAV systems can use various inputs:

• GNSS/GPS (most common today)
• DME/DME (using multiple DME stations)
• VOR/DME
• Inertial Navigation Systems (INS/IRS)

RNAV specifications define required navigation performance:

• RNAV 5: Accuracy within 5 nm (en-route)
• RNAV 1: Accuracy within 1 nm (terminal)
• RNP AR: Required Navigation Performance with Authorization Required — allows curved approaches with accuracy as tight as 0.1 nm

RNAV is foundational to modern air traffic management, enabling more efficient routing, reduced fuel consumption, and increased airspace capacity.