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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-gps-approach-sensitivity

On a GPS approach, the CDI full-scale sensitivity narrows to what value at the final approach waypoint?

0.3 NM each side at the final approach waypoint.

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  1. Plus or minus 1 NM
  2. Plus or minus 0.3 NM ✔
  3. Plus or minus 5 NM

Why: En route the CDI is plus or minus 5 NM and in the terminal area plus or minus 1 NM. Once the approach is active it ramps down to 0.3 NM at the final approach waypoint.

Huh, didn't know that: The increasing sensitivity can make it look like you are moving away from course even on an acceptable intercept.

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References

Answer: Plus or minus 0.3 NM. En route the CDI is plus or minus 5 NM and in the terminal area plus or minus 1 NM. Once the approach is active it ramps down to 0.3 NM at the final approach waypoint.

  1. FAA Aeronautical Information Manual 1-1 Navigation Aids www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap1_section_1.html
    Beginning 2 NM prior to the FAWP, the full scale CDI sensitivity will smoothly change from ±1 NM to ±0.3 NM at the FAWP.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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