What type of navigation does VNAV primarily focus on?

VNAV, or Vertical Navigation, is a system that primarily focuses on managing an aircraft's altitude profile during flight. It helps pilots to optimize altitude changes while considering factors like air traffic control requirements, flight performance, and fuel efficiency. The primary function of VNAV is to guide the aircraft along a predetermined vertical flight path, ensuring that it adheres to altitude constraints, climbs, descends, and levels off at specific altitudes as needed.

This vertical navigation capability is critical during various phases of flight, including ascent, cruise, and descent, allowing for a smoother and more efficient flight experience. It operates in conjunction with lateral navigation systems, which focus on guiding the aircraft along its horizontal flight path, but VNAV specifically deals with the changes in altitude. The emphasis on vertical navigation highlights the importance of altitude management in modern aviation operations, particularly in complex airspace environments.