Gulfstream Wins RNP Approval

Gulfstream received FAA approval to fly “Required Navigation Performance Special Aircraft and Aircrew Authorization Required” (RNP SAAAR) airport approaches on its G550, G500, G450 and G350 business aircraft. Gulfstream said its has been working for the past year with the FAA, NetJets and Honeywell to secure FAA approval that would allow the two companies’ Gulfstream PlaneView-equipped aircraft to fly RNP SAAAR approaches. Aircraft flying under RNP SAAAR procedures use GPS and inertial navigation reference systems to fly predetermined paths preloaded in their flight management computers. These paths, which are navigated through the Flight Guidance Control System, allow pilots to fly safer, more-direct and lower-minimum approaches, thereby reducing typical diversions. These more direct airport approaches reduce the time aircraft are in the air, saving operators both time and fuel. NetJets and Honeywell now will include this recent FAA approval in their own operational packages, which include an RNP SAAAR pilot training program, for submission to their local FAA Flight Standards District Offices. Upon approval of their respective operational packages, they can begin conducting specified RNP SAAAR instrument approaches.