Output Number
Approval Date
Organisation
Jeppesen Sanderson
Published Date Time
Recommendation type
Mode
Date released

Safety Issue

There were several design aspects of the Jeppesen RNAV (GNSS)
approach charts that could lead to pilot confusion or reduction in
situational awareness. These included limited reference regarding
the 'distance to run' to the missed approach point, mismatches in
the vertical alignment of the plan-view and profile-view on charts
such as that for the Lockhart River runway 12 approach, use of the
same font size and type for waypoint names and 'NM' [nautical
miles], and not depicting the offset in degrees between the final
approach track and the runway centreline.

Safety Recommendation

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau recommends that Jeppesen
Sanderson Inc. address this safety issue.

Organisation Response
Date Received
Organisation
Jeppeson Sanderson Inc.
Response Status
Response Text

Jeppesen Sanderson Inc. is considering possible chart
enhancements to address this safety issue. Jeppesen has informed
the ATSB that it will be conducting internal meetings and reviews
of all aspects of this safety issue, and will inform the ATSB in
writing of the outcomes.

Date Received
Organisation
Jeppeson Sanderson Inc.
Response Text

Distance to Run to the Missed Approach Point:
Executing a RNAV or GPS approach procedure involves 'direct to'
navigation between defined points in space (waypoints) which are
electronically coded in a pre-determined sequence. The GPS avionics
navigation display provides a continuous read out of distance to
each of the next waypoints in their proper sequence. After passing
the FAF the GPS navigator will display distance to the MAP. The GPS
navigator is the only navigational aid that can provide distance
left to travel from any present position. Distance to the MAP and
distance to the runway threshold are both provided in the Jeppesen
chart profile view. There is no change planned for this Jeppesen
charting specification.

Alignment of Waypoints: There is no design
intention nor pilot user expectation for any alignment of Waypoints
between the plan-view graphic and the profile-view. The plan-view
and the profile-view are designed for independent use, each with
specific purpose. There is no change planned for this Jeppesen
charting specification.

Font & Text Size for Waypoints: NM is the
worldwide abbreviation for Nautical Mile (s), which is the standard
measure of aeronautical distance in the western world. The similar
font used for the paired waypoint name and distances aides the
pilot perceive these as grouped data, thereby facilitating the task
of interpreting these related pieces of information. There is no
change planned for this Jeppesen charting specification.

Offset between Final Approach Course and Runway
Centerline:
There is an unique situation resulting from
the way in which Air Services Australia IAIP charts provide the FAC
offset information in graphic vs. a textual note. Jeppesen agrees
that the information needs to be provided. A new Australia "State
Exception" specification will be created. Jeppesen will convert the
FAC offset information (offset value) from Air Services' source in
graphic form and recompose it into the form of a textual note that
will be included in the Briefing Strip general notes section of the
approach chart. The Jeppesen-created note will match other accepted
practices (i.e. FAA notes for FAC offsets.) The new specification
will standardize the availability and depiction to conform with
Jeppesen Airway Manual approach charts worldwide.