What does RNAV stand for in navigation?

RNAV stands for Area Navigation, which is a method of navigation that allows an aircraft to fly any desired flight path within the coverage of ground- or space-based navigation aids, or within the limits of the capability of self-contained aids. RNAV systems use an onboard computer that processes data from various navigation sources. This flexibility in routing enables aircraft to take more direct routes, reducing flight times and fuel consumption.

Areas of flexibility include the ability to navigate to waypoints without needing to overfly the navigational aids, which improves the efficiency and effectiveness of flight operations. Area Navigation has become an essential aspect of modern aviation, particularly with the advent of satellite systems like GPS, allowing for more sophisticated and versatile flight paths compared to traditional navigation methods tied strictly to ground-based navigational aids.