Pilots often mistakenly believe they must "activate" their GPS approach, even when it's already correctly programmed. This is a misconception stemming from the "LOAD" vs. "ACTIVATE" options.

Does that APR, or approach mode key, on your autopilot somehow activate a GPS receiver so it can fly an approach? The answer is no, it doesn't. And if you're confused about that, you're not alone. And ...

I should have mentioned but left the thought incomplete that those airports that could not afford to host a non-precision VOR, VORTAC approach procedure or precision ILS approach can have a ...