Where Do You Find RNAV Authorization in a Cessna G1000?
Cessna handles RNAV approval documentation differently than Cirrus. In a G1000-equipped Cessna, AFM Section 2: Limitations directs you to the Garmin Cockpit Reference Guide for detailed procedure approvals.
Software updates frequently add capabilities to modern avionics, so Cessna defers to supplemental avionics documentation for the definitive answer. The Garmin Cockpit Reference Guide is listed as a required item on the Kinds of Operations Equipment List for all G1000 Cessna models.
Where to find certification information
Below are excerpts from a Cessna 172S G1000 AFM supplement and the corresponding Cockpit Reference Guide showing LPV approach and TSO certification:
Can my 1968 airplane fly LPV approaches?
If you fly a vintage aircraft with a modern WAAS GPS installation, your original AFM was written before GPS existed. In this case, the flight manual supplement for your GPS unit contains the approach authorization information.
Whether you have a GNS530W or GTN750 installed in a 1968 Bonanza, Cessna 182, or any other legacy airframe, the process is the same. The AFM supplement follows the standard AFM format, so you'll find approved procedures in Section 2: Limitations.
GTN750 AFM supplement excerpt
GNS530W AFM supplement excerpt
Important: The AFM supplement must be onboard the aircraft. It's part of the airworthiness documentation, even if your aircraft is not otherwise required to carry a POH or AFM.
FAA Form 337: Major Repair and Alteration
For any GPS installation, FAA Form 337 documents the Major Repair and Alteration. You'll find this with the aircraft maintenance logs and AD compliance records.
The 337 serves two critical purposes:
- Proof of proper installation: Verifies the GPS was installed correctly per FAA requirements
- Continued airworthiness instructions: The reverse side specifies required inspections, typically completed at annual inspection
If you're buying a used aircraft with aftermarket GPS, verify the Form 337 exists and the continued airworthiness requirements have been logged. Without proper documentation, the installation may not be considered airworthy.
Practice RNAV approaches in the simulator
Understanding RNAV equipment requirements is crucial whether you're pursuing your instrument rating or maintaining IFR currency.
Our G1000 NXi simulator replicates the exact avionics discussed in these articles. You can practice:
- LPV approaches to minimums at airports like KCMA
- GPS-based alternates when VORs are out of service
- MOCA altitude flight planning with WAAS navigation
- Oral exam scenarios covering equipment limitations
All sessions are led by active airline pilots who have passed these same checkrides and understand both the regulatory knowledge and flying skills required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if it has a WAAS GPS installation with proper documentation. The aircraft's age doesn't matter—what matters is the GPS unit's TSO certification and the AFM supplement authorization. A 1968 Bonanza with a GTN750 installation can fly LPV approaches just like a new Cirrus, provided the AFM supplement shows LPV authorization and the Form 337 documents proper installation.
The Garmin Cockpit Reference Guide should be aboard the aircraft—it's listed as a required document on the Cessna G1000 Kinds of Operations Equipment List. It's typically in a plastic binder in the aircraft, separate from the POH. You can also download current versions from Garmin's website, but verify the software version matches your installed system. The Guide contains detailed information about approach authorizations that the basic AFM limitations section references.
FAA Form 337 (Major Repair and Alteration) documents any significant modification to an aircraft, including GPS installations. It proves the GPS was installed correctly per FAA requirements. The back side specifies continued airworthiness requirements that must be completed at annual inspection. Without Form 337, the GPS installation may not be considered airworthy—meaning you cannot legally fly IFR approaches with it. Always verify Form 337 exists when buying or renting aircraft with aftermarket GPS.
Yes, the AFM supplement for aftermarket GPS installations must be aboard the aircraft. It's part of the airworthiness documentation, just like the basic POH or AFM. The supplement follows standard AFM format—Section 2 contains the limitations and approach authorizations you need to verify before IFR flight. If the supplement is missing, contact the aircraft owner or check with the installing shop for a replacement copy.
Software updates can add capabilities but don't automatically change your authorization. For Cessna G1000 aircraft, approach authorization is documented in the Garmin Cockpit Reference Guide—verify you have the correct version for your installed software. For aftermarket units like GTN series, major software updates may require updated AFM supplement pages. Always verify your documentation matches your installed software version before assuming new capabilities are authorized.
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