RNP

RNP, or Required Navigation Performance, is a specification within performance-based navigation (PBN) that defines the level of navigational accuracy, integrity, availability, and continuity required for a defined airspace or flight operation. It relies on an aircraft’s onboard navigation system to fly a precise path and is subject to continuous monitoring and alerting to ensure the aircraft remains within the defined path limits.

Implementation typically requires an approved RNP authorization for the operator and aircraft, issued by the relevant aviation authority. The system depends on RNAV-capable sensors and flight management or autopilot capabilities, along with onboard performance monitoring to verify containment of the flight path.

RNP is applied across en-route, terminal, and approach phases. The specification is expressed as an RNP value, such as RNP 4, RNP 2, RNP 1, or RNP 0.3, indicating the required lateral containment in nautical miles. A subset known as RNP AR (Authorization Required) imposes more stringent requirements and approvals because it may involve more complex procedures, including curved paths and radius-to-fix segments.

RNP is one element of performance-based navigation, complementing RNAV and RNP approaches. It is formalized in international aviation standards and guidance materials, notably within ICAO’s framework for PBN. By defining precise performance criteria, RNP aims to improve airspace efficiency, capacity, and safety while enabling more direct flight routes and contiguous airspace operations.