Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) factsheet

The PBN concept represents a shift from sensor-based to performance-based navigation. It specifies aircraft RNAV system performance requirements in terms of accuracy, integrity, availability, continuity and functionality needed for the proposed operations in the context of a particular Airspace Concept. Performance requirements are identified in navigation specifications, which also identify the choice of navigation sensors and equipment that may be used to meet the performance requirements.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sees PBN as the vehicle to promote global interoperability world wide. The advantage of PBN is that it provides a frameworkfor defining navigation performance requirements and a set of international navigation specifications.

These can be used as needed by regions and States, thereby avoiding the proliferation of different rules for certification and operational approvals, and contributing to the ATM environment in which interoperability is lacking today. The interoperability provided by PBN will not only be essential, but will be taken for granted.

PBN is comprised of three components:

• the Navigation Application;
• the Navigation Specification; and
• the Navigation Infrastructure.

ICAO’s PBN Concept aims:

• to ensure global interoperability through the standardisation of RNAV and RNP system performance through internationally agreed RNAV and RNP specifications;
• to limit the proliferation of navigation specifications in use world-wide.

More information

EUROCONTROL is mandated to develop a draft interoperability implementing rule on Performance Based Navigation (PBN) that will define navigation requirements and identify the functionalities required in en-route and terminal air-space, including arrival and departure, and also approach.

• Learn more about PBN Mandate

Related topic

• RNAV Approaches

Other useful links

• Communications, Navigation and Surveillance website
• EUROCONTROL Navigation Domain