Which of the following is true concerning GPS approaches?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Question presented: Which of the following is true concerning GPS approaches?

Observing the provided data, there are no answer options listed for evaluation, and the answer field includes a single statement:
- 'In approach mode, the sensitivity on the CDI changes from 1 NM to 0.3 NM at the FAF.'

Because no multiple-choice options are given, we cannot definitively determine which option is correct relative to a complete set of choices. Nevertheless, we can analyze the single statement on its own and explain the general principle behind CDI sensitivity on GPS approaches.

Line of reasoning about the statement:
- In GPS (RNAV) approaches, the CDI sensitivity (the scale of lateral deviation you see on the OBS/ CDI) does vary between segments of the approach. Typically, the system uses a larger sensitivity (coarser scale) in the initial/intermediate segments and tightens to a finer scale as you reach the final approach segment, enhancing situational awareness as you approach the runway.
- A common configuration is that the CDI changes to a 0.3 NM sensitivity on the final approach segment, which is the portion from the Final Approach Fix (FAF) or Final Approach Point (FAP) inbound to the runway. Prior to reaching the final approach segment, the CDI is often displayed at 1.0 NM sensitivity (or another larger scale depending on aircraft equipment and database configuration).
- The statement asserts that the sensitivity changes specifically at the FAF. In some GPS approaches, the trigger for changing to 0.3 NM is indeed the transition into the final approach segment, which begins at or near the FAF/FAP; in other configurations, the change may be described as occurring at the Final Approach Point or when established on the final approach course. The essential idea is that the change from a larger to a smaller CDI scale occurs as you enter the final approach portion.

Potential misconceptions or caveats:
- If one interprets the FAF as the point where you begin final descent, then saying the switch happens at the FAF aligns with the general concept that the system tightens guidance as you near the runway. However, some procedures or avionics manuals might specify the switch occurs at the FAP or at a defined distance along the final approach, rather than precisely at the FAF, depending on the chart and equipment.
- Not all GPS approaches use an identical CDI scale policy; some systems may default to a different final-segment sensitivity or may advertise a continuous tuning of sensitivity rather than a discrete switch. Therefore, while the idea is broadly correct, the exact trigger point can vary by avionics model and procedure.

In summary, the statement aligns with the common practice that GPS approach CDI sensitivity tightens to 0.3 NM as you transition into the final approach segment, typically around the final approach portion (often associated with FAF/FAP). If the question were to include multiple options, the correctness would hinge on how precisely the trigger point is defined in those options and consistent with the specific GPS/WAAS database conventions used for the depicted approach.

FA_221 Lesson 23 Quiz

Which of the following is true concerning GPS approaches?

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