Garmin Introduces Guided Visual Approaches: Simplifying Navigation in Challenging Airports
Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) has taken a significant step forward in aviation safety and efficiency with the launch of Guided Visual Approaches, a groundbreaking database offering designed to simplify flying into some of the most challenging airports. Developed in collaboration with Hughes Aerospace, this new feature provides pilots with lateral and vertical guidance for 31 visual approaches across 25 airports, enhancing safety and reducing workload during critical phases of flight. These procedures are now available for purchase through Garmin’s online platform, flyGarmin.com, making it easier than ever for pilots to access advanced navigation tools tailored to demanding environments.
Simplifying Complex Approaches
Navigating into airports surrounded by rugged terrain, urban landscapes, or other obstacles can be a daunting task, especially for pilots operating faster turbine aircraft. Guided Visual Approaches address these challenges by delivering precise, three-dimensional navigation guidance directly to the runway threshold. This added layer of support helps pilots maintain stabilized approaches, even in adverse conditions, ensuring safer landings and improved situational awareness.
Creighton Scarpone, Garmin Director of Airline & Business Aviation Sales, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are excited to work with Hughes Aerospace to bring an industry-leading number of Guided Visual Approaches to our customers. We are confident these approach procedures will help simplify approaches for pilots who often find themselves in challenging terrain or airport environments.”
Chris Baur, CEO of Hughes Aerospace Corporation, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Hughes Aerospace is proud to collaborate with Garmin on this new product offering. Guided Visual Approaches deliver precise, three-dimensional navigation to the runway threshold—enhancing safety, reducing pilot workload, and maximizing the value of your Garmin avionics investment.”
A Familiar User Experience
One of the standout features of Guided Visual Approaches is their seamless integration into existing Garmin avionics systems. Pilots will find the process of loading and activating these “RNAV G” approaches nearly identical to traditional procedures. From initial setup to execution, the user interface mirrors the familiar experience of flying standard approaches, ensuring a smooth transition for pilots already accustomed to Garmin’s intuitive design.
Each Guided Visual Approach provides both lateral and vertical guidance, allowing pilots to couple the procedure with the autopilot for hands-free precision. Additionally, georeferenced approach charts are available for all procedures, further enhancing situational awareness. These charts can be accessed through compatible Garmin avionics, such as the FliteChart feature, or via the Hughes App from Hughes Aerospace, giving pilots multiple ways to review and execute the approach.
Enhancing Safety in Demanding Environments
The introduction of Guided Visual Approaches represents a major leap forward in aviation safety. By providing clear, three-dimensional guidance, these procedures help pilots achieve more stabilized approaches, particularly in faster turbine aircraft where precision is paramount. This is especially beneficial when flying into airports located near mountains, dense cityscapes, or areas with significant obstacles.
For night operations, Guided Visuals offer an additional layer of confidence. Pilots flying into airports surrounded by bright city lights or obscured by darkness can rely on the system to maintain visual contact with the runway while adhering to safe descent paths. This reduces the cognitive load on pilots, allowing them to focus on other critical aspects of the approach.
Compatibility and Purchase Options
Guided Visual Approaches are compatible with Garmin WAAS-equipped avionics capable of RF legs, including the popular GTN and GTN Xi series navigators, as well as select Garmin integrated flight decks. Aircraft owners and operators should consult their pilot operating handbook or aircraft flight manual to confirm their system’s ability to support RNP procedures with RF legs.
Purchasing Guided Visuals is straightforward, thanks to Garmin’s streamlined online platform. Starting August 7, 2025, customers can include Guided Visuals in their OnePak™ subscription, which bundles essential database updates for a hassle-free experience. Alternatively, pilots can purchase the feature as a standalone add-on through flyGarmin.com.
A Valuable Investment for Pilots
For pilots seeking to maximize the capabilities of their Garmin avionics, Guided Visual Approaches represent a worthwhile investment. By combining cutting-edge technology with practical usability, this feature not only enhances safety but also optimizes operational efficiency. Whether navigating complex terrain or managing high-density airspace, pilots can trust Guided Visuals to provide accurate, reliable guidance every step of the way.
Why Guided Visual Approaches Matter
In today’s fast-paced aviation environment, pilots face increasing demands to operate safely and efficiently in diverse conditions. Guided Visual Approaches address these challenges head-on, offering a solution that bridges the gap between traditional visual approaches and modern navigation technology. By collaborating with Hughes Aerospace, Garmin has created a product that delivers tangible benefits to pilots, from reduced workload to enhanced safety.
For pilots operating in challenging environments, the value of Guided Visual Approaches cannot be overstated. These procedures empower pilots to tackle difficult approaches with confidence, knowing they have the tools needed to ensure a safe and successful landing.
Garmin products and services have revolutionized flight and become essential to the lives of pilots and aircraft owners and operators around the world. A leading provider of solutions to general aviation, business aviation, rotorcraft, advanced air mobility, government and defense, and commercial air carrier customers, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate. Recipient of the prestigious Robert J. Collier Trophy for Garmin Autoland, Garmin developed the world’s first certified autonomous system that activates during an emergency to control and land an aircraft without human intervention.
