What must be current for GPS to be certified for IFR use?

For GPS to be certified for IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) use, it is essential that the airplane's database information is current. This database includes critical information such as waypoints, airways, and procedures that ensure safe navigation and compliance with air traffic control. An up-to-date database minimizes the risk of errors during flight, as pilots and navigation systems rely on accurate data for routing, altitude constraints, and other operational aspects.

While the pilot’s navigation skills and the satellite positioning system are important for overall safe navigation, they do not directly relate to the certification requirement for IFR use of GPS. Similarly, transponder settings are vital for maintaining communication and visibility with air traffic control, but they do not pertain to the certification of the GPS system itself for IFR operations. Thus, maintaining a current database is a specific regulatory requirement to ensure operational integrity and safety in IFR conditions.