[Avionics Today 08-26-2016] The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has modernized the regulatory approach toward operations using Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) specifications. This system aims to allow for a safer, more flexible and environmentally friendly way of navigating the skies.
Currently, a specific operational approval is required for almost all PBN operations, but the new regulatory approach puts emphasis on pilot training and checking and on proportionate PBN-related operating procedures. As a consequence, specific operational approvals are only required for some types of approaches, such as approaches with curved flight paths in the final approach, as well as specific helicopter operations.
EASA expects this new regulatory approach to increase safety and to significantly reduce administrative resource needs for air operators and national aviation authorities.