G.P.S. in FS9-Non ILS approaches

Hi Kev,

I think it's likely that you haven't in fact missed a trick - just that the nature of the Non-Precision GPS Approach is that it's not "TIED" to the Runway Approach Heading in the same way that an ILS Approach is, using a NAV FM link to the Localizer.

If you compare FM (Radio) NAV versus GPS then it's hard to argue against the fact that GPS is the more accurate navigational system. However, Aviation hasn't yet fully made the transition whereby GPS is applied fully in terms of it's capabilites... So what I am saying is that a GPS Non-Precision Approach is a pathway that is designed to be useful in getting you more or less lined up ready for you to manage your final approach using other means.... (Such as ILS)... I guess that's ultimately why it's called a Non-Precison Approach.

My guess is that in the not too distant future GPS will be used to managew full approach and AutoLanding (in place of Radio ILS) but the main obstacle at the moment is that GPS is not currently adequate for Glideslope management..... ie... it can't track a plane's successful flying down the Glideslope to the Runway - it can only manage Heading and Backcourse.

Hope this (small doctrine) helps,

Thanks David,

you've managed to clarify all my GPS isssues in one single,coherant and intelligent reply.Thanks a mil!

kev