Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

What type of approaches are classified as non-precision?

1. LP and LPV

2. LNAV and LPV

3. LNAV and LP

4. LNAV/VNAV and LPV

The correct answer is: LNAV and LP

Non-precision approaches are defined as approaches that do not provide lateral and vertical guidance for the aircraft to reach the runway safely. Instead, they rely on lateral navigation (LNAV) for guidance, which offers horizontal positioning only. The categorization of approaches varies, but in this context, the correct classification of non-precision approaches includes LNAV and LP. The LP, or Localizer Performance approach, also qualifies as non-precision. It is designed to provide lateral guidance, but it lacks precise vertical guidance typical of precision approaches. This allows pilots to execute approaches using horizontal navigation only, fitting the criteria for non-precision. In contrast, LPV (Localizer Performance with Vertical guidance) approaches are considered precision approaches because they provide both lateral and vertical guidance based on the accuracy of satellite-based navigation. Both LNAV and LP qualified as non-precision, thus affirming the selection. To conclude, recognizing that non-precision approaches focus on lateral navigation without vertical guidance is essential for understanding which approaches fall under this classification.