If the GPS approach mode is armed outside the suggested area, when will it arm?

• A. It will arm immediately outside the area
• B. It will arm after passing the outer marker
• C. It will arm once within the suggested area of 30NM
• D. It will never arm

Answer: (C)

The key idea is how GPS approach mode is timed to engage so you don’t capture the approach too early. GPS approach mode won’t arm while you’re well outside the approach area because arming too soon could lead to inappropriate sequencing or miscapture of the final approach. There’s a defined distance window, typically about 30 NM from the final approach segment, during which the system is allowed to arm. Once you enter that 30 NM zone, the GPS approach mode arms and is prepared to intercept and fly the final approach path.

That’s why the correct choice is that it arms once you are within the suggested area of 30 NM. Outer markers aren’t used by GPS approaches, so that option isn’t applicable, and arming immediately outside the area would bypass the intended sequencing.