The concept is called RNP – Required Navigation Performance. Born of the need to get aircraft more safely into and out of airports in mountainous regions, the technique is coming to Houston Hobby (HOU), a quintessentially flatland airport. In addition, RNP also saves time and fuel.
Discount airline Southwest is introducing RNP to Houston early this year, one of two U.S. airports where the carrier will run proving flights for the new procedure.
By plotting more precise, efficient paths through the skies, airlines save fuel and cut carbon dioxide emissions – something that weighs heavy on the minds of airline executives these days.
Southwest is in the process of converting aircraft to employ RNP procedures. Pioneered by Alaska Airlines, the technique works. It works so well that after the Southwest proving flights, industry insiders expect other carriers to adopt the new navigational approach.
© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler
