AIM ¶ 4-7-2 — Non-RNP 10 Gulf Operations
AIM 4-7-2 explains how non-RNP 10 aircraft file, separate, and notify ATC in Gulf of America CTAs. Study guide for pilot oral exams and checkrides.
In Plain English
AIM 4-7-2 explains how aircraft not authorized for RNP 10 or RNP 4 can still operate in the Gulf of America CTAs, but with some trade-offs.
Key points:
- Non-RNP 10 operators may file any route and altitude in the Gulf CTAs.
- Their preferred routing/altitude is granted only as traffic allows, because ATC must provide 90 or 100 NM lateral separation between them and other aircraft.
- Priority goes to RNP 10 or RNP 4 aircraft, which can be separated by tighter standards.
- Non-RNP 10 operators must annotate "RMK/NONRNP10" in Item 18 of the ATC flight plan.
- Pilots must report "negative RNP 10" on initial contact with ATC in each Gulf CTA/FIR.
Why it matters operationally: without RNP authorization, you'll often be vectored off your preferred route or altitude due to the large separation buffer. The AIM notes that obtaining RNP 10 or RNP 4 authorization (when the aircraft is equipped) usually pays off in better routing and fuel efficiency. This is AIM guidance, not a FAR mandate, but it reflects how ATC will actually handle your flight plan.
AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 4-7-24-7-2. 4-7-2. Accommodating Non-RNP 10 Aircraft
Operators not authorized for RNP 10 or RNP 4 may still file for any route and altitude within the Gulf of America CTAs. However, clearance on the operator's preferred route and/or altitude will be provided as traffic allows for 90 or 100 NM lateral separation between the non-RNP 10 aircraft and any others. Priority will be given to RNP 10 or RNP 4 aircraft. Operators of aircraft not authorized RNP 10 or RNP 4 must include the annotation “RMK/NONRNP10” in Item 18 of their ATC flight plan. Pilots of non-RNP 10 aircraft are to remind ATC of their RNP status; i.e., report “negative RNP 10” upon initial contact with ATC in each Gulf CTA/FIR. Operators will likely benefit from the effort they invest to obtain RNP 10 or RNP 4 authorization, provided they are flying aircraft equipped to meet RNP 10 or RNP 4 standards.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1Can a non-RNP 10 aircraft file a route through the Gulf of America CTAs?
Yes. Per AIM 4-7-2, operators not authorized for RNP 10 or RNP 4 may still file for any route and altitude within the Gulf of America CTAs, but their preferred route or altitude will only be approved as traffic allows, since ATC must provide 90 or 100 NM lateral separation from other traffic.
Q2What flight plan annotation is required for a non-RNP 10 aircraft operating in the Gulf CTAs?
Per AIM 4-7-2, the operator must include the annotation "RMK/NONRNP10" in Item 18 of the ATC flight plan.
Q3What must the pilot of a non-RNP 10 aircraft report to ATC when entering a Gulf CTA/FIR?
Per AIM 4-7-2, pilots of non-RNP 10 aircraft must remind ATC of their RNP status by reporting "negative RNP 10" upon initial contact with ATC in each Gulf CTA/FIR.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 4