Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) is comprised of Area Navigation (RNAV) and Required Navigation Performance (RNP) and describes an aircraft’s capability to navigate using performance standards.
RNAV enables aircraft to fly on any desired flight path within the coverage of ground- or space – based navigation aids, within the limits of the capability of aircraft self-contained systems, or a combination of both capabilities.
RNP is RNAV with the addition of an onboard performance monitoring and alerting capability. RNP enables the aircraft navigation system to monitor the navigation performance it achieves and inform the crew if the requirement is not met during an operation. This onboard monitoring and alerting capability enhances the pilot’s situational awareness and can enable reduced obstacle clearance. (Source: FAA)
ONCC continues to monitor the FAA’s progress on NextGen implementation and evaluate its impact on other communities.
FAA Performance-Based Navigation Brochure
FAA brochure illustrates RNAV with definitions and benefits of Performance-Based Navigation (PBN).
NextGen Goal: Performance-Based Navigation
The Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) is the FAA's plan to modernize the National Airspace System (NAS). Through NextGen, FAA is addressing the impact of air traffic growth by increasing capacity and efficiency while simultaneously improving safety, reducing environmental impacts, and increasing user access to the NAS. To achieve its NextGen goals, FAA is implementing new Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) routes and procedures that leverage emerging technologies and aircraft navigation capabilities.
