Moving Forward with Performance Based Navigation
IATA's recommended navigation solution for saving fuel is based on Area Navigation (RNAV) and Required Navigation Performance (RNP) in accordance with the new ICAO Performance Based Navigation (PBN) criteria. The 36th ICAO General Assembly passed a resolution urging all States to have PBN implementation plans in place next year with a 2014 target date for PBN at 70% of the world's airports. IATA plans to work with States and airlines to accelerate the process.
PBN Example Benefits
A recent case included Airservices Australia and Qantas (QF) agreeing to develop and trial PBN RNAV procedures. Six RNP approach and 12 RNP departure procedures were developed for the Brisbane airport. Of the first 1612 approach procedures flown in instrument conditions by QF's Boeing 737-800's, there was an accumulative savings of 4,200 minutes achieved by a 17,300 nm reduction in track miles flown when compared to traditional ILS approach. This example at one airport has already saved more than 200,000 kg of fuel and 650,000 kg of CO2.
PBN Challenges
One of the challenges of implementing new navigation requirements is that airlines first need to be 'approved' by their State of Operator/Registry. Therefore, it is becoming more important than ever for airlines and their regulatory authorities to understand how to obtain ''Operational Approvals" for the different navigation specifications contained in the new ICAO PBN manual. To assist in this process, IATA has developed "General Guidelines for Obtaining Airworthiness and Operational Approvals for PBN Navigation Specifications". This document will help accelerate the process for both States and airlines.