Short answer: A conventional-to-PBN feasibility study checks whether replacing or complementing ILS, VOR, NDB or other conventional procedures with PBN, RNP APCH, RNP AR or SBAS/LPV procedures is technically feasible and operationally worth the cost.
What the study compares
- Current conventional procedure minima and accessibility.
- Potential PBN track geometry and obstacle constraints.
- Terrain, airspace, fleet and avionics compatibility.
- ATC workload, route structure and traffic flow impact.
- Expected reduction in track miles, delay or fuel burn.
- Potential minima improvements and weather accessibility.
- Safety case and implementation complexity.
- Publication, validation, training and stakeholder effort.
Useful decision result
The output should not be a generic recommendation to adopt PBN. It should state which runway, procedure or airspace concept has a measurable benefit, which one does not, and what data supports the decision.
Assess PBN value
Compare technical feasibility and operational benefits before implementation.