Glossary
Navigation & Airspace
Area Navigation (RNAV)
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Definition
A method of navigation allowing aircraft to fly any desired path using GPS or other sensors
Related Terms
Flight Management System (FMS)
A computer system that automates navigation, performance optimization, and flight planning
GPS Navigation (GPS)
The satellite-based navigation system used by aircraft to determine precise position
Required Navigation Performance (RNP)
An RNAV system with on-board monitoring and alerting capabilities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Area Navigation (RNAV)?
A method of navigation allowing aircraft to fly any desired path using GPS or other sensors
What does RNAV stand for?
RNAV stands for Area Navigation (RNAV). A method of navigation allowing aircraft to fly any desired path using GPS or other sensors
How does Area Navigation (RNAV) relate to other aviation concepts?
Area Navigation (RNAV) is closely related to Flight Management System and GPS Navigation, among other key aviation concepts.
More in Navigation & Airspace
Airspace Classification
Airway (AWY)
Approach Procedure
Decision Height (DH)
Distance Measuring Equipment (DME)
Flight Information Region (FIR)
Flight Level (FL)
Glideslope (GS)
GPS Navigation (GPS)
Instrument Landing System (ILS)
Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)
Missed Approach
Non-Directional Beacon (NDB)
Required Navigation Performance (RNP)
Squawk Code
Standard Instrument Departure (SID)
Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR)
Transition Altitude (TA)
Transponder (XPDR)
VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR)
Waypoint (WPT)