GPS Overlays

[ClassdAviator]

I have seen the term GPS overlays used and I was curious as to what they are. I am working on my Instrument rating and have come across this. Is this something that more sophisticated equipment utilizes? Thanks!

 

[tarp]

When you see the header on the top of the approach plate as something like:

VOR or GPS RWY 5
NDB or GPS RWY 23

These are "overlays". The GPS contains data that will allow you to fly the exact track that the overlayed VOR or NDB approach would have flown. You are doing the same approach with a different "box".

 

[mar]

No more overlays?

Yup. I agree with Tarp's definition but it's my understanding that the FAA decided to eliminate the strictly overlayed GPS approach. Seems that they wanted all RNAV (GPS) approaches to be 'original'.

I'm not sure I understand why. I could be wrong. But it's just a matter of time until they run out of pronounceable intersections...SYWHT?

I'd like to buy a vowel.