RNPARAPCH

RNP AR APCH, or Required Navigation Performance Authorization Required Approach, is an instrument approach procedure that enables precise and curved flight paths in challenging terrain or congested airspace. It is part of ICAO’s Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) framework and is available only to operators who have been specifically authorized to fly it.

Operation requires an approved RNP AR program within the operator’s organization, and the aircraft must be equipped and certificated to meet the required navigation performance for the procedure. The flight crew must hold authorization to perform the procedure, and air traffic control must clear the aircraft for the RNP AR approach. Preflight data and the procedure’s authorization reference must be entered in the flight plan. The procedure may include radius-to-fix RF legs and offset segments, enabling curved paths that would be difficult with standard approaches. The navigation specification generally requires a specified lateral containment (RNP value) and reliable navigation integrity; automatic flight control systems (autopilot/flight director) are typically used for accuracy and safety.

Design and safety considerations include obstacle clearance margins established during procedure design, which may feature step-down fixes and vertical guidance. Minima are highly restricted and available only to authorized operators. Navigation integrity must be monitored during flight, with contingencies for degraded navigation and the need for timely pilot intervention if required.

Operational context: RNP AR approaches enable access to airports in mountains or densely controlled airspace where conventional approaches are impractical. They are used worldwide, with growing adoption in Europe, the Americas, and parts of Asia. Effective use requires ongoing data maintenance, crew training, and regulatory oversight consistent with national and international standards.