By Bill Gunn
If you don’t know that GPS is a Global Navigation System, perhaps you have been on an extended vacation – on a deserted island. GPS has begun to alter modern life in the way the transistor did or perhaps the birth of powered flight did in 1903. If you fly an aircraft or operate an airport, GPS looms large in your life in that suddenly all airports can have an instrument approach with vertical guidance – as soon as the rest of the system is tested and available to the public. The pilots, the manufacturers and the FAA have rushed GPS into the cockpit only to discover that GPS approaches in general aviation aircraft are complex and frustrating events. This is made even more difficult by the fact that there is almost no commonality in the knobs and presentation on the instrument approach-capable GPS units from the various manufacturers. Pilots are left on their own to learn the intricacies of using their particular brand of GPS box while flying the aircraft, talking on the radio, completing the checklist, and perhaps a few other things – all at once.
So, the concept of Zen, which is defined as enlightenment that can be attained through meditation, self-contemplation, and intuition rather than through faith and devotion, comes to mind. Why? If you ask the individuals who have slogged their way to GPS proficiency, they will tell you to a person that you must have “oneness” with the particular GPS box they are flying. You must be proficient to the point that you know and feel the correctness of the steps you take to set up and fly a GPS instrument approach. Single pilot GPS operations demand more from the pilot in command than most other flight regimes. Learn the GPS box operation thoroughly, so thoroughly that you can solve any problem or change in clearance instantly; almost without looking at the GPS panel as you do it. More and more GPS systems are easier to use, but the pilot must still MASTER the unit before attempting a GPS approach in weather.
Airport operators want either an approach or improved approaches to their airport. As regional FAA offices can handle the requests, TxDOT Aviation will recommend airports for approaches. A current Airport Layout Plan (ALP) is essential. The FAA can start the approach review process as long as we can assure them the ALP will be current before approach publication. Improved airport markings, improved lighting, and items such as a local altimeter source are required or highly recommended as the approach is nearing publication.
GPS is the way of the future. The FAA fully intends to reduce VOR and NDB navigation as GPS becomes more available for IFR operation. Texas is ready.