"Chris" wrote in message
...

Further information on this issue

A standard-fit Cirrus cannot fly en-route under IFR in controlled airspace
in the UK This is not just Airways, but all controlled airspace A - E
according to the Air Navigation Order.

When it is time for approach and landing a Cirrus cannot use any pilot
interpreted procedural instrument approach other than a VOR based on timing,
because to substitute GPS for any element of the approach is not approved by
the CAA according to AIC 93/3 2002 and to do so would render the pilot
liable to at least the risk of being prosecuted for endangerment (Art 63 and
64 of the ANO) and there is the not-inconsiderable risk of voiding the
insurance.

In the UK, a Cirrus can only fly IFR outside all controlled airspace, and
make a procedural instrument approach under IFR at those VOR facilities
whose procedures are based on timing, which also at the same time happen to
be outside all controlled airspace.

There only seems to be two of these - Benbecula and Cranfield!

The situation is hardly better abroad. Each European country has different
variations of the en-route rules, some will allow GPS. But the situation
with regard to approaches is very similar.

In France for example the French R.C.A. 2.2.1.3. Makes it very clear that an
aircraft under IFR on Departure, Arrival, Holding and Instrument Approach
procedures must carry the equipment necessary to follow the type of approach
being used. So, even if the aircraft can fly IFR in French airways, it is
not legal to use an instrument approach procedure which, for example,
contains an NDB unless the aircraft carries an ADF.

[The UK Air Navigation order:

Schedule 5
Radio and radio navigation equipment to be carried in aircraft

Paragraph 2
(1) All aircraft (other than gliders) within the United Kingdom:
(a) when flying under Instrument Flight Rules within controlled airspace:

Radio and radio navigation equipment capable of enabling the aircraft to be
navigated along the intended route including:

(i) automatic direction finding equipment;
(ii) distance measuring equipment; and
(iii) VHF omni-range equipment.


129 Interpretation:

'Controlled airspace' means airspace which has been notified as Class A,
Class B, Class C, Class D or Class E airspace; .]

[AIC 93/2002

3.3.3. The CAA is aware that some existing instrument approach procedures
based on conventional navigation aids are provided in many GPS receiver
databases. These are generally known as 'overlay' procedures and provide a
general prepresentation of the conventional approach. These 'overlay'
procedures may contain a disparity from the notified instrument approach
procedures and may not assure adequate obstacle clearance. The use of these
GPS 'overlay' procedures is not authorised by the CAA. ]

A right old mess!