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What are FMS Guided Visual Approaches?

What are FMS Guided Visual Approaches?

FMS Guided Visual approaches (FGV) are developed by Honeywell and coded into the Flight Management System (FMS) navigation database. They are titled "RNAV H" and provide lateral and vertical guidance to the runway during visual maneuvers, aiming to improve the likelihood of a stable approach by offering a precise, repeatable flight path. These can be fully coupled to the autopilot or hand-flown, utilizing "Radius to Fix (RF)" legs for a precise track over the ground while respecting airspace restrictions and terrain.

What are Honeywell Navigation Services?

Honeywell Navigation Services, on the other hand, encompass a suite of offerings, including FMS Guided Visual approaches, that provide various navigation databases and services for different aircraft types. These services provide access to full instrument approaches and are designed to provide better access to airports while enhancing the safety and efficiency of flight operations.

How do FMS Guided Visuals Work?

FMS Guided Visual (FGV) approaches provide pilots with lateral and vertical guidance to the runway during visual meteorological conditions. The guidance is developed from multiple transitions strategically placed around the airport that allows operators to easily join the procedure once given an ATC clearance for a visual approach. Each FGV is selectable from the Flight Management System (FMS) navigation database as an “RNAV H” procedure and provides a precise and repeatable flight path to the runway. The procedures use "Radius to Fix (RF)" legs which ensure a specific lateral track over the ground, and, as a result, a precise and repeatable vertical path. FGVs are an excellent tool to promote a stable approach while adhering to airspace restrictions and maintaining separation from terrain. Each FGV approach can be flown manually or coupled to the autopilot.

Which Airports does Honeywell have FMS Guided Visual Approaches for?

We have developed FMS Guided Visual Approaches for several airports. As of September 1, 2024, the following airports have FMS Guided Visual Approaches available:

  • Teterboro (KTEB) RWY 06 circle to RWY 01
  • Chicago Executive (KPWK) RWY 34
  • Palm Springs - Jacqueline Cochran Regional (KTRM) RWY 35
  • Van Nuys (KVNY) RWY 34L
  • Scottsdale (KSDL) RWY 21
  • Cabo San Lucas (MMSL) RWY 11
  • DeKalb-Peachtree (KPDK) RWY 3R
  • Henderson Executive Airport (KHND) RWY 17R/35L
  • San Francisco International Airport (KSFO) RWY 28R
  • Burbank (KBUR) RWY 15/33

Additionally, there are airports under development for future FMS Guided Visual Approaches, including:

  • Singapore-Seletar (WSSL) RWY 3/21
  • Napa County (KAPC) RWY 24
  • White Plains (KHPN) Rwy 34
  • Truckee Tahoe (KTRK) Rwy 11/29
  • Heber City (KHCR) Rwy 22

For the most up-to-date charts, pilots can visit Honeywell's Pilot Gateway and check the "Honeywell Special RNP Instrument Approaches & FMS Guided Visuals" section.

Carey Miller
Honeywell Forge – Technical Lead Flight Services