AIM ¶ 4-7-3 — RNP 10/4 Authorization
AIM 4-7-3 explains how U.S. operators obtain RNP 10 or RNP 4 authorization via OpSpec/MSpec/LOA B036 using AC 90-105 guidance.
In Plain English
AIM 4-7-3 explains how U.S. operators get approval to conduct RNP 10 or RNP 4 operations, which are required for many oceanic and remote continental routes.
Key points:
- AC 90-105 provides the aircraft and operator qualification criteria for RNP 10 and RNP 4 authorizations.
- FSDO and CMO inspectors evaluate operator applications using AC 90-105.
- Authorization is granted through OpSpec, MSpec, or LOA B036, depending on the type of operation (Part 121, Part 91, etc.).
- FAA Order 8900.1, Vol. 3, Ch. 18, Sec. 4, contains the specific issuance criteria.
- The authorization will list any required equipment and, if the aircraft uses inertial-only navigation, applicable RNP 10 time limits.
- RNP 4 demands tighter lateral and track-keeping accuracy than RNP 10, so the qualification bar is higher.
Operationally, this matters because you cannot legally fly published RNP 10 or RNP 4 oceanic routes without the appropriate authorization on file — even if your aircraft is technically capable.
AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 4-7-34-7-3. 4-7-3. Obtaining RNP 10 or RNP 4 Operational Authorization
For U.S. operators, AC 90-105, Approval Guidance for RNP Operations and Barometric Vertical Navigation in the U.S. National Airspace System and in Oceanic and Remote Continental Airspace, provides the aircraft and operator qualification criteria for RNP 10 or RNP 4 authorizations. FAA personnel at flight standards district offices (FSDO) and certificate management offices (CMO) will use the guidance contained in AC 90-105 to evaluate an operator's application for RNP 10 or RNP 4 authorization. Authorization to conduct RNP operations in oceanic airspace is provided to all U.S. operators through issuance of Operations Specification (OpSpec), Management Specification (MSpec), or Letter of Authorization (LOA) B036, as applicable to the nature of the operation; for example, part 121, part 91, etc. Operators may wish to review FAA Order 8900.1, Flight Standards Information Management System, volume 3, chapter 18, section 4, to understand the specific criteria for issuing OpSpec, MSpec, and/or LOA B036. The operator's RNP 10 or RNP 4 authorization should include any equipment requirements and RNP 10 time limits (if operating solely inertial-based navigation systems), which must be observed when conducting RNP operations. RNP 4 requires tighter navigation and track maintenance accuracy than RNP 10.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1What document provides the qualification criteria for RNP 10 or RNP 4 authorization?
Per AIM 4-7-3, AC 90-105, 'Approval Guidance for RNP Operations and Barometric Vertical Navigation in the U.S. National Airspace System and in Oceanic and Remote Continental Airspace,' provides the aircraft and operator qualification criteria, and FSDO/CMO personnel use it to evaluate applications.
Q2How is RNP 10 or RNP 4 authorization issued to a U.S. operator?
Per AIM 4-7-3, authorization is issued through Operations Specification (OpSpec), Management Specification (MSpec), or Letter of Authorization (LOA) B036, as appropriate to the operation (e.g., Part 121 or Part 91).
Q3What is the key performance difference between RNP 10 and RNP 4?
Per AIM 4-7-3, RNP 4 requires tighter navigation and track maintenance accuracy than RNP 10. Additionally, if operating solely with inertial-based systems, the authorization will include RNP 10 time limits that must be observed.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 4