During a WAAS GPS approach, what does an LNAV+V annunciation indicate?

The annunciation of LNAV+V during a WAAS GPS approach specifically indicates that advisory vertical guidance is being provided during the descent. In this context, "LNAV" stands for lateral navigation, while the "+V" signifies that vertical guidance in the form of advisory information is available. This guidance assists pilots in maintaining a proper descent profile toward the runway, thereby enhancing situational awareness and improving the approach's accuracy without being classified as precise vertical guidance.

It is important to note that while LNAV+V offers additional vertical information, it does not create a hard decision altitude that is typically found in approaches that use precise vertical guidance like an LPV (Localizer Performance with Vertical guidance). Instead, the advisory nature of this vertical guidance means it is not as stringent in terms of minimums but still provides valuable data to pilots during the approach. This assists in ensuring a safe and efficient descent, while still adhering to the standards established for the use of GPS in aviation operations.