What GPS is required for IFR flight?
To be legal as a primary source of navigation under IFR, the GPS must certified as a TSO C129 (non-WAAS) or TSO C145/146 (WAAS) receiver. Additionally the database must be current. There are some manufacturer-specific exceptions (Check your flight-manual supplement. It is interesting to note that there is no requirement for navigational equipment such as VOR and GPS, but you must have them equipped if you intend to use their associated facilities. Since IFR procedures rely heavily on these types of navigational equipment, you won’t go far without them.In the United States, instruments required for IFR flight in addition to those that are required for VFR flight are: heading indicator, sensitive altimeter adjustable for barometric pressure, clock with a sweep-second pointer or digital equivalent, attitude indicator, radios and suitable avionics for the route to be .
Can you use a handheld GPS for IFR?
The short answer is no. VFR and handheld GPS systems are not authorized for IFR navigation, instrument approaches, or as a primary instrument flight reference. During IFR operations they may be considered only an aid to situational awareness. It is interesting to note that there is no requirement for navigational equipment such as VOR and GPS, but you must have them equipped if you intend to use their associated facilities. Since IFR procedures rely heavily on these types of navigational equipment, you won’t go far without them.
Do all IFR GPS have RAIM?
RAIM is always required in GPS receivers that are certified to TSO C129A or better. This certification, in most cases, allows the GPS receiver to be operated and utilized for IFR navigation. Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitor (RAIM) By comparing the distance measurements of a number of satellites, the RAIM function can identify a satellite failure and issue an alert to the pilot. Without RAIM capability, the pilot has no assurance of the accuracy of the GPS position.