What Is the Difference Between RNAV Z and Y Approaches?

It’s important to pick the right approach for the aircraft you’re flying. [Shutterstock]

Question: I am an instrument pilot in training at an airport that has two RNAV approaches for the same runway. One is labeled RNAV (GPS) Y RWY 16; the other is RNAV (GPS) Z 16. Why would the FAA create two GPS approaches to the same runway?

Answer: Broadly speaking, the Y approach is more geared toward single-engine, piston-powered aircraft, and the Z approach more appropriate for jets.

Put the approach plates side by side and you'll note the Z has lower weather minimums than the Y. They may also require different aircraft equipment and pilot certification, step-down fixes, and altitudes. The devil can be in the details, as a side-by-side comparison may reveal different missed approach instructions and one with a virtual glideslope that is not coincident with the RNAV glide path. One may allow circling, while the other does not.

READ MORE: Everything You Need to Know about RNAV GPS Approaches

When requesting an approach at an airport with both the Z and Y variant, make sure you ask for the one most appropriate for your aircraft and pilot qualifications. If you (or your aircraft) don't meet the approach criteria, be sure to tell ATC "unable."

GPS IFR Instrument Approach Instrument Rating instrument training RNAV RNAV Y RNAV Z

Meg GodlewskiAuthor

Meg Godlewski has been an aviation journalist for more than 24 years and a CFI for more than 20 years. If she is not flying or teaching aviation, she is writing about it. Meg is a founding member of the Pilot Proficiency Center at EAA AirVenture and excels at the application of simulation technology to flatten the learning curve. Follow Meg on Twitter @2Lewski.