What is an LPV approach? Can I fly LPV approaches with WAAS today?
A. LPV is a new category of approach that uses the WAAS signal and provides vertical guidance. You can fly LPV with WAAS avionics approved for LPV approaches. WAAS avionics do not automatically mean that you can fly the LPV minima line. WAAS approaches do not require any special ground equipment at the destination airport—no localizer or glide slope transmitters are necessary. To fly an LPV approach, you must have WAAS Class 3 avionics certified to TSO-C145a or TSO-C146A, and installed IAW AC 20-138A.
