Department of Transportation

Federal Aviation Administration

Aircraft Certification Service
Washington, DC

TSO-C151b
Date: December 17, 2002

Technical Standard Order

Subject:

TERRAIN AWARENESS AND WARNING SYSTEM

1. PURPOSE. This technical standard order (TSO) tells persons seeking a TSO authorization
or letter of design approval what minimum performance standards (MPS) their Terrain
Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) equipment must first meet in order to obtain and be
identified with the TSO-C151b Class A, B, or C marking.
NOTE: The MPS and test conditions for Class A and B are in
appendices 1 and 3. The Class C MPS and test conditions are located in
appendix 4. Class A and B TAWS equipment is required by Title 14 of
the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) parts 91, 135, and 121. Class
C TAWS equipment is intended for voluntary installations on aircraft
not covered by the TAWS requirements in 14 CFR parts 91, 135, and
121.
2. APPLICABILITY.
a. This TSO is effective for new applications submitted after the effective date of this TSO.
All prior revisions to this TSO are no longer effective and, in general, applications will not be
accepted after the effective date of this TSO. However, applications submitted against the
previous versions of this TSO may be accepted up to six months after the effective date of this
TSO, in cases where we know the applicant was working against the earlier MPS before the new
change became effective.
b. Terrain Awareness and Warning Systems approved under a previous TSO authorization
may continue to be manufactured under the provisions of their original approval, as specified in
14 CFR 21.603(b). However, major design changes to TAWS equipment approved under
previous versions of this TSO requires a new authorization under this TSO, per 14 CFR
21.611(b).
3. REQUIREMENTS. New models of TAWS equipment that are to be so identified and that
are manufactured on or after the effective date of this TSO must meet the MPS in appendices 1
through 4.
a. Functionality. The standards of this TSO apply to equipment intended to provide the
flight crews with both aural and visual alerts to aid in preventing an inadvertent controlled flight
into terrain (CFIT) event.
DISTRIBUTION:
IR Form 8150-1

ZVS-326;A-W(IR)-3;A-X(FS)-3;A-X(CD)-4;
A-FFS-1,2,7,8(LTD);A-FAC-0(MAX);AFS-610 (2 cys)

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b. Failure Condition Classification. A minimum level of reliability and integrity must be

built into the TAWS computer for warning functions. Therefore, the presentation of hazardously
misleading information (HMI), as defined in paragraph 2.8 of appendix 1, on the terrain display,
or the unannunciated loss of the terrain warning functions as a result of TAWS Computer failure
is considered a major failure condition. A false terrain warning as a result of a TAWS computer
failure is also considered a major failure condition. False sensor inputs (erroneous altitude,
terrain data, airport data, etc) to the TAWS computer need not be considered for compliance to
these failure condition classifications.
c. Functional Qualifications. The required performance must be demonstrated under the
test conditions specified in appendices 1 through 4.
d. Environmental Qualifications. The equipment must be subject to the test conditions
specified in RTCA, Inc. Document No. RTCA/DO-160D, Environmental Conditions and Test
Procedures for Airborne Equipment, Change 4,dated July 29, 1997, or the most current
revision. (Appendix 2 is reserved for modifications of, or additional requirements beyond the
test procedures contained in RTCA/ DO-160D.)
NOTE: FAA approved TAWS equipment certified to the FAA interim
certification requirements that specified RTCA/DO-160C must be
considered in compliance with TSO-C151b and must be entitled to a TSOC151b authorization approval for the purpose of determining compliance
with 14 CFR 91.223, 121.354 and 135.154.
e. Software Qualifications. Software must be developed in accordance with sections 3
through 11 and Annex A of RTCA /DO-178B, Software Consideration in Airborne Systems and
Equipment Certification, dated December 1, 1992, or the most current revision. If the applicant
proposes to use alternative methods, such as those in RTCA/DO-178B, section 12.3 or other
alternative methods to qualify the software, the applicant should submit as early as possible to
the FAA the proposed alternate method. This will allow for the FAA's timely review and
acceptance of the proposed alternate method and for the timely resolution of any issues.
Software implementing the functions defined in this TSO must be developed to Level C as
defined in RTCA/DO-178B. Monitoring software required by appendix 1 of this TSO must be
developed to Level C. Software in the TAWS other than the software implementing the function
and monitoring requirements defined in the TSO, such as maintenance software, should be
developed to Level C also unless the applicant can demonstrate that the TSO functional software
and monitoring software is protected from failure of the other software by means such as
developed to the highest level commensurate with its functionality and its most severe failure
condition categories as determined by a system safety assessment.
f. Fire Protection. All material used must be self-extinguishing except for small parts (such
as knobs, fasteners, seals, grommets, and small electrical parts) that would not contribute
significantly to the propagation of a fire.
g. Deviations. The FAA has provisions for using alternative or equivalent means of
compliance to the criteria set forth in the MPS of this TSO. Applicants invoking these
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TSO-C151b

provisions must demonstrate that an equivalent level of safety is maintained and must apply for a
deviation per 14 CFR 21.609.
4. MARKING. Under 14 CFR 21.607(d), articles manufactured under this TSO must be
marked as follows:
a. At least one major component must be permanently and legibly marked with all of the
information listed in 14 CFR 21.607(d), except for the following: the option in 14 CFR
21.607(d)(2), where the name, type and part number must be used in lieu of the optional model
number; and the option in 14 CFR 21.607(d)(3), where the date of manufacture must be used in
lieu of the serial number.
b. In addition to the requirements of 14 CFR 21.607(d), each separate component that is
easily removable (without hand tools), each interchangeable element, and each separate subassembly of the article that the manufacturer determines may be interchangeable must be
permanently and legibly marked with at least the name of the manufacturer, manufacturer's subassembly part number, and TSO number.
c. If the component includes a digital computer, the part number must include hardware and
software identification, or a separate part number may be utilized for hardware and software.
Either approach must include a means for showing the modification status. Note that similar
software versions, which have been approved to different software levels, must be differentiated
by part number.
5. DATA REQUIREMENTS.
a. Application Data. Under 14 CFR 21.605(a)(2), the manufacturer must furnish the
Manager, Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA),
responsible for the manufacturer's facilities, one copy each of the following technical data to
support the FAA design and production approval:
(1) Operating instructions and equipment limitations. The limitations must be
sufficient to describe the operational capability of the equipment. In particular, operational or
installation limitations resulting from specific deviations granted must be described in detail.
The TAWS must contain processes by which the terrain database can be updated.
(2) Installation procedures and limitations. The limitations must be sufficient to ensure
that the TAWS, when installed in accordance with the installation procedures, continues to meet
the requirements of this TSO. The limitations must also be sufficient to identify any unique
aspects of the installation. Finally, the limitations must include at least the following:
(i) A note with the following statement:
The conditions and tests required for TSO approval of this article are
minimum performance standards. It is the responsibility of those
installing this article either on or within a specific type or class of
aircraft to determine that the aircraft installation conditions are within
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the TSO standards. TSO articles must have separate approval for
installation in an aircraft. The article may be installed only in
compliance with 14 CFR part 43 or the applicable airworthiness
requirements.
(ii) When applicable, identify the appliance as an incomplete system or a multi-use
system and describe any limitations and the functions that are intended to be provided by the
appliance.
(3) Schematic drawings, as applicable to the installation procedures.
(4) Wiring drawings, as applicable to the installation procedures.
(5) Material and process specifications list.
(6) List of the components, by part number, that make up the TAWS system complying
with the standards prescribed in this TSO. Manufacturers should include vendor part number
cross-reference when applicable.
(7) Instructions in the form of a Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) containing
information on periodic maintenance, calibration and repair, for the continued airworthiness of
installed TAWS, including recommended inspection intervals and service life. Details of
deviations granted, as noted in paragraph 5a(1) of this TSO, may also be described in the CMM.
(8) Nameplate drawing providing the information required by paragraph 4 of this TSO.
(9) The quality control system description required by 14 CFR 21.605(a)(3) and
21.143(a), including functional test specifications to be used to test each production article to
ensure compliance with this TSO.
(10) Manufacturers TSO qualification test report, including appendix 2 modifications of,
or additional requirements beyond the test procedures contained in RTCA/DO-160D.
(11) An environmental qualification form as described in RTCA/DO-160D or the most
current revision for each component of the TAWS equipment.
(12) A list of all drawings and processes, including revision level, necessary to define the
article's design. In the case of a minor change, any revisions to the drawing list need only be
made available upon request.
(13) If the article includes software: Plan for Software Aspects of Certification (PSAC);
Software Configuration Index; and Software Accomplishment Summary. The FAA recommends
that the PSAC be submitted early in the software development process. Early submittal will
allow timely resolution of issues such as partitioning and determination of software levels.
b. Manufacturer Data. In addition to the data to be furnished directly to the FAA, each
manufacturer must have available the following technical data:
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(1) The functional qualification specifications to be used to qualify each production article
to ensure compliance with this TSO.
(2) Corrective maintenance procedures within 12 months after TSO authorization.
(3) Equipment calibration procedures.
(4) Material and process specifications.
(5) Schematic drawings.
(6) Wiring diagrams.
(7) The results of the environmental qualification tests conducted in accordance with
RTCA/DO-160D, including appendix 2 modifications, or additional requirements beyond the
test procedures contained in RTCA/DO-160D.
c. Furnished Data.
(1) One copy of the technical data and information specified in paragraphs 5a(1) through (6)
of this TSO and any other data or information necessary for the proper installation, certification,
use, and continued airworthiness of the TAWS must accompany each article manufactured under
this TSO.
(2) If the appliance accomplishes any additional functions beyond that described in
paragraphs 3 and 3a of this TSO, than a copy of the data and information specified in paragraphs
5a(11) through (13) must also go to each person receiving for use one or more articles
manufactured under this TSO.
6. AVAILABILITY OF REFERENCED DOCUMENTS.
a. Copies of RTCA Documents Nos.RTCA/DO-160D, Environmental Conditions and Test
Procedures for Airborne Equipment, dated July 29, 1997, RTCA/DO-161A, Minimum
Performance Standards - Airborne Ground Proximity Warning Equipment, dated May 27, 1976,
RTCA/DO-200A/ EURCAE ED76, Standards for Processing Aeronautical Data, dated
September 18, 1998, and RTCA/DO-178B, Software Considerations in Airborne Systems and
Equipment Certification, dated December 1, 1992, may be purchased from RTCA Inc., 1140
Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 1020, Washington, D.C. 20036.
b. 14 CFR part 21, Subpart O, Technical Standard Order Authorizations, may be purchased
from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington,
DC 20402-9325. Copies may also be obtained from the Government Printing Office from their
website at www.access.gpo.gov/ecfr/.

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TSO-C151b

David Hempe
Manager, Aircraft Engineering Division
Aircraft Certification Service

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Appendix 1

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B
1.0 INTRODUCTION.
1.1 Purpose. This standard provides the MPS for a Terrain Awareness and Warning System
(TAWS).
1.2 Scope. This appendix sets forth the standard for two Classes of TAWS equipment. Class A
equipment is required for certain 14 CFR part 121 operators and certain 14 CFR part 135
operators. Class B equipment is required for certain 14 CFR part 135 operators and certain 14
CFR part 91 operators. See Table 11-1 and the appropriate operating rules for specific details.
1.3 System Function and Overview. The system must provide the flight crew with sufficient
information and alerting to detect a potentially hazardous terrain situation that would permit the
flight crew to take effective action to prevent a controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) event. The
basic TAWS functions for all TSO approved systems include the following:
a. A Forward Looking Terrain Avoidance (FLTA) function. The FLTA function looks
ahead of the airplane along and below the airplanes lateral and vertical flight path and provides
suitable alerts if a potential CFIT threat exists.
b. A Premature Descent Alert (PDA) function. The PDA function of the TAWS uses the
airplanes current position and flight path information as determined from a suitable navigation
source and airport database to determine if the airplane is hazardously below the normal
(typically 3 degree) approach path for the nearest runway as defined by the alerting algorithm.
c. An appropriate visual and aural discrete signal for both caution and warning alerts.
d. Class A TAWS equipment must provide terrain information to be presented on a display
system.
e. Class A TAWS equipment must provide indications of imminent contact with the ground
for the following conditions as further defined in RTCA/DO-161A, Minimum Performance
Standards - Airborne Ground Proximity Warning Equipment, dated May 27, 1976, and section
3.3 of this appendix. Deviations from RTCA/DO-161A are acceptable providing the nuisance
alert rate is minimized while an equivalent level of safety for the following conditions is
provided.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)

Excessive Rates of Descent

Excessive Closure Rate to Terrain.
Negative Climb Rate or Altitude Loss After Take-off
Flight Into Terrain When Not in Landing Configuration
Excessive Downward Deviation From an ILS Glideslope.
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Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
(6) Voice callout Five Hundred when the airplane descends to 500 feet above the terrain
or nearest runway elevation
NOTE: Class A equipment will be entitled to a TSO-C92c authorization approval
for the purpose of complying with the mandatory GPWS requirements in 14 CFR
121.360 and 135.153, until such time that those rules are superceded by TAWS
rules.
f. Class B equipment must provide indications of imminent contact with the ground during
the following airplane operations as defined in section 3.4 of this appendix.
(1) Excessive Rates of Descent
(2) Negative Climb Rate or Altitude Loss After Takeoff
(3) A voice callout Five Hundred when the airplane descends to 500 feet above the
nearest runway elevation.
1.4 Added Features. If the manufacturer elects to add features to the TAWS equipment, those
features must at least meet the same qualification testing and software verification and validation
requirements as provided under this TSO. Additional information such as human-made
obstacles may be added as long as they do not adversely alter the terrain functions.
1.5 Other Technologies. Although this TSO envisions a TAWS based on the use of an onboard
terrain and airport database, other technologies such as the use of radar are not excluded. Other
concepts and technologies may be approved under this TSO using 14 CFR 21.609, Approval
for Deviation.
2.0 DEFINITIONS.
2.1 Alert. A visual, aural, or tactile stimulus presented to attract attention and convey
information regarding system status or condition.
2.2 Aural Alert. A discrete sound, tone, or verbal statement used to annunciate a condition,
situation, or event.
2.3 Caution Alert. An alert requiring immediate crew awareness. Subsequent corrective action
will normally be necessary.
2.4 Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT). An accident or incident in which an airplane,
under the full control of the pilot, is flown into terrain, obstacles, or water.

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TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
2.5 Failure. The inability of the equipment or any sub-part of that equipment to perform within
previously specified limits.
2.6 False Alert. An inappropriate alert that occurs as a result of a failure within the TAWS or
when the design alerting thresholds of the TAWS are not exceeded.
2.7 Hazard. A hazard is a state or set of conditions that together with other conditions in the
environment could lead to an accident.
2.8 Hazardously Misleading Information (HMI). An incorrect depiction of the terrain threat
relative to the airplane during an alert condition (excluding source data).
2.9 Nuisance Alert. An inappropriate alert, occurring during normal safe procedures, that
occurs as a result of a design performance limitation of TAWS.
2.10 Search Volume. A volume of airspace around the airplanes current and projected path
that is used to define a TAWS alert condition.
2.11 Visual Alert. The use of projected or displayed information to present a condition,
situation, or event.
2.12 Warning Alert. An alert for a detected terrain threat that requires immediate crew action.
3.0 REQUIRED TAWS FUNCTIONS.
3.1 Class A and Class B Requirements for Forward Looking Terrain Avoidance (FLTA).
The majority of CFIT accidents have occurred because the flight crews did not have adequate
situational information regarding the terrain in the vicinity of the airplane and its projected flight
path. Class A and Class B Equipment will be required to look ahead of the airplane, within their
design search volume and provide timely alerts in the event terrain is predicted to penetrate the
search volume. The FLTA function should be available during all airborne phases of flight
including turning flight. The search volume consists of a computed look ahead distance, a lateral
distance on both sides of the airplanes flight path, and a specified look down distance based
upon the airplanes vertical flight path. This search volume should vary as a function of phase of
flight, distance from runway, and the required obstacle clearance (ROC) in order to perform its
intended function and to minimize nuisance alerts. The lateral search volume should expand as
necessary to accommodate turning flight. The TAWS search volumes should consider the
accuracy of the TAWS navigation source. The TAWS lateral search area should be less than the
protected area defined by the United States Standard for Terminal Instrument Procedures
(TERPS), FAA Handbook 8260.3B and ICAO PANOPS 8168, volume 2, to prevent nuisance
alerts.
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Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)

3.1.1 Reduced Required Terrain Clearance (RTC). Class A and Class B equipment must
provide suitable alerts when the airplane is currently above the terrain in the airplanes projected
flight path but the projected amount of terrain clearance is considered unsafe for the particular
phase of flight. The required obstacle (terrain) clearance (ROC) as specified in TERPS and the
Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) have been used to define the minimum requirements
for obstacle/terrain clearance (RTC) appropriate to the FLTA function. These requirements are
specified in Table 3.1. The FLTA function must be tested to verify the alerting algorithms to
meet the test conditions specified in appendix 3, Tables A, B, C, D, E, and F.
TABLE 3.1
TAWS REQUIRED TERRAIN CLEARANCE (RTC) BY PHASE OF FLIGHT
Phase of Flight
TERPS (ROC)
TAWS (RTC)
TAWS (RTC)
Level Flight
Descending
Enroute
1000 Feet
700 Feet
500 Feet
Terminal (Intermediate
500 Feet
350 Feet
300 Feet
Segment)
Approach
250 Feet
150 Feet
100 Feet
Departure (See Note 1)
48 Feet/NM
100 Feet
100 Feet
NOTE 1: During the Departure Phase of Flight, the FLTA function of Class A
and B equipment must alert if the airplane is projected to be within 100 feet
vertically of terrain. However, Class A and Class B equipment should not alert if
the airplane is projected to be more than 400 feet above the terrain.
NOTE 2: As an alternate to the stepped down reduction from the terminal to
approach phase in Table 3.1, a linear reduction of the RTC as the aircraft comes
closer to the nearest runway is allowed, providing the requirements of Table 3.1
are met.
NOTE 3: During the visual segment of a normal instrument approach (typically about 1
NM from the runway threshold), the RTC should be defined/reduced to minimize
nuisance alerts. Below a certain altitude or distance from the runway threshold, logic
may be incorporated to inhibit the FLTA function. Typical operations below Minimum
Descent Altitude (MDA), Decision Height (DH), or the Visual Descent Point (VDP)
should not generate nuisance alerts.
NOTE 4: The specified RTC values are reduced slightly for descending flight
conditions to accommodate the dynamic conditions and pilot response times.
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TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)

3.1.2 Imminent Terrain Impact. Class A and Class B equipment must provide suitable alerts
when the airplane is currently below the elevation of a terrain cell along the airplanes lateral
projected flight path and, based upon the vertical projected flight path, the equipment predicts
that the terrain clearance will be less than the value given in the RTC column of Table 3.1. See
appendix 3 for test conditions that must be conducted (Table G).
3.1.3 FLTA Turning Flight. Class A and Class B equipment must provide suitable alerts for
the functions specified in 3.1.1 and 3.1.2 above when the airplane is in turning flight.
3.2 Class A and Class B Equipment Requirements for Detection and Alerting for
Premature Descent Along the Final Approach Segment. Class A and Class B equipment
must provide a suitable alert when it determines that the airplane is significantly below the
normal approach flight path to a runway. Approximately one third of all CFIT accidents occur
during the final approach phase of flight, when the airplane is properly configured for landing
and descending at a normal rate. For a variety of reasons, which include poor visibility, night
time operations, loss of situational awareness, operating below minimums without adequate
visual references and deviations from the published approach procedures, many airplanes have
crashed into the ground short of the runway. A means to detect and alert the flight crew to this
condition is an essential safety requirement of this TSO. There are numerous ways to
accomplish the overall objectives of this requirement. Alerting criteria may be based upon
height above runway elevation and distance to the runway. It may be based upon height above
terrain and distance to runway or other suitable means. This TSO will not define the surfaces for
which alerting is required. It will specify some general requirements for alerting and some cases
when alerting is inappropriate. See appendix 3 Table H for test requirements.
a. The PDA function should be available for all types of instrument approaches. This
includes both straight-in approaches and circling approaches. This includes approaches that are
not aligned within 30 degrees of the runway heading.
b. The TAWS equipment should not generate PDA alerts for normal VFR operations in the
airport area. Airplanes routinely operate at traffic pattern altitudes of 800 feet above
field/runway elevation for traffic pattern operations within 5 NM of the airport.
c. Airplanes routinely operate in VFR conditions at 1000 feet AGL within 10-15 NM of the
nearest airport and these operations should not generate alerts.

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Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
d. Airplanes routinely operate in the visual segment of a circling approach within 2 NM of
the airport/runway of intended landing with 300 feet of obstacle clearance. Operations at
circling minimums should not cause PDA alerts or FLTA alerts.
3.3 Class A Requirements for GPWS Alerting. In addition to the TAWS Forward Looking
Terrain Avoidance and PDA functions, the equipment must provide the GPWS functions listed
below in accordance with TSO-C92c. Some GPWS alerting thresholds may be adjusted or
modified to be more compatible with the FLTA alerting functions and to minimize GPWS
nuisance alerts. However, it is essential to retain the independent protective features provided by
both the GPWS and FLTA functions. In each case, all the following situations must be covered.
The failure of the TSO-C92c equipment functions, except for power supply failure, input sensor
failure, or failure of other common portions of the equipment, must not cause a loss of the FLTA,
PDA, or Terrain Display.
The functions described in TSO-C92c and the referenced document RTCA/DO-161A include:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)

Excessive Rates of Descent

Excessive Closure Rate to Terrain
Negative Climb Rate or Altitude Loss After Take-Off
Flight Into Terrain When Not in Landing Configuration
Excessive Downward Deviation From an ILS Glideslope

a. Flap Alerting Inhibition. A separate guarded control may be provided to inhibit GPWS
alerts based on flaps being other than the landing configuration.
b. Speed. Airspeed or groundspeed must be included in the logic that determines basic
GPWS alerting time for Excessive Closure Rate to Terrain and Flight Into Terrain When Not
in Landing Configuration to allow maximum time for the flight crew to react and take
corrective action.
c. Voice Callouts. Voice callouts of altitude above the terrain must be provided during
nonprecision approaches per TSO-C92, but are recommended for all approaches. These
advisories are normally, but are not limited to 500 feet above the terrain or the height above the
nearest runway threshold elevation.
d. Barometric Altitude Rate. Class A and Class B equipment may compute Barometric
Altitude Rate using an Instantaneous Vertical Speed Indicator (IVSI) or an inertial smoothed
vertical speed indicator. An alternative means, with demonstrated equal or better accuracy, may
be used in lieu of barometric altitude rate (accuracy specified in TSO-C10b, Altimeter, Pressure

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Appendix 1

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
Actuated, Sensitive Type, or later revisions) and/or altimeter altitude (accuracy specified in
TSO-C67, Airborne Radar Altimeter Equipment - for air carrier aircraft, or later revisions) to
meet the warning requirements described in RTCA/DO-161A. In addition, TSO-C106 for Air
Data Computers may be used as an alternative means of compliance with this provision.
e. Sweep Tones Whoop-Whoop. If a two-tone sweep is used to comply with RTCA
/DO-161A, paragraph 2.3, the complete cycle of two-tone sweeps plus annunciation may be
extended from 1.4 to 2 seconds.
NOTE: Class A equipment will be entitled to a TSO-C92c authorization approval
for the purpose of complying with the mandatory GPWS requirements in 14 CFR
121.360 and 135.153 until such time that those rules are superceded by TAWS
rules.
3.4 Class B Requirements for GPWS Alerting
a. Class B equipment must provide alerts for excessive descent rates. The alerting envelope
of RTCA/DO-161A has been modified to accommodate a larger envelope for both caution and
warning alerts. Height above Terrain may be determined by using the Terrain Data Base
elevation and subtracting it from QNH barometric altitude (or equivalent). In addition, since the
envelopes are not limited by a radio altitude measurement to a maximum of 2500 feet AGL, the
envelopes are expanded to include higher vertical speeds. The equipment must meet either the
requirements set forth in appendix 3, section 7.0 or that specified in DO-161A.
b. Class B equipment must provide alerts for Negative Climb Rate After Takeoff or Missed
Approach or Altitude Loss After Takeoff as specified in RTCA/DO-161A. The alerting is
identical to the alerting envelope in RTCA/DO-161A except that Height above Terrain is based
upon Height above Runway threshold elevation instead of radio altitude.
c. Class B equipment must provide a voice callout Five Hundred during descents for
landing. This feature is primarily intended to provide situational awareness to the flight crew
when the airplane is being operated properly per normal procedures. During a normal approach,
it is useful to provide the flight crew with a 500-foot voice callout referenced to the runway
threshold elevation for the runway of intended landing. This feature also has an important CFIT
protection function. In the event the airplane is operated unintentionally close to terrain when
not

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Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)

in the airport area or the area for which PDA protection is provided, a 500-foot voice callout
referenced to Height above Terrain will alert the flight crew to a hazardous condition.
The equipment must meet the requirements specified in appendix 3, section 9.0.
NOTE 1: Class B equipment will not require a radio altimeter. Height above
Terrain may be determined by subtracting the elevation of the current position
terrain cell from the current barometric altitude (or equivalent).
NOTE 2: Class B equipment should compute the voice callout for five hundred
feet based upon barometric height above runway elevation. The nearest runway
elevation may be used for this purpose.
3.5 Class A Equipment Requirements for a Terrain Display. Class A equipment must be
designed to interface with a Terrain Display, either color or monochromatic. Class A equipment
for TAWS must be capable of providing the following terrain related information to a display
system.
a. The terrain must be depicted relative to the airplanes position such that
the pilot may estimate the relative bearing to the terrain of interest.
b. The terrain must be depicted relative to the airplanes position such that the pilot may
estimate the distance to the terrain of interest.
c. The terrain depicted must be oriented to either the heading or track of the airplane. In
addition, a North-up orientation may be added as a selectable format.
d. Variations in terrain elevation depicted relative to the airplanes elevation (above and
below) must be visually distinct. Terrain that is more than 2000 feet below the airplanes
elevation need not be depicted.
e. Terrain that generates alerts must be displayed in a manner to distinguish it from nonhazardous terrain, consistent with the caution and warning alert level.
3.6 Class B Equipment Requirements for a Terrain Display. Operators required to install
Class B equipment are not required to include a Terrain Display. However, Class B TAWS

Page 8

Appendix 1

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
equipment must be capable of driving a terrain display function in the event the installer wants to
include the terrain display function.
NOTE: This TSO does not include requirements for the display system/hardware.
4.0 AURAL AND VISUAL ALERTS.
4.1 The TAWS is required to provide aural alerts and visual alerts for each of the functions
described in section 3.0 of this appendix.
4.2 The required aural and visual alerts must initiate from the TAWS system simultaneously,
except when suppression of aural alerts are necessary to protect pilots from nuisance aural
alerting.
4.3 Each aural alert must identify the reason for the alert such as too low terrain and
Glideslope, or other acceptable annunciation.
4.4 The system must remove the visual and aural alert once the situation has been resolved.
4.5 The system must be capable of accepting and processing airplane performance related data
or airplane dynamic data and providing the capability to update aural and visual alerts at least
once per second.
4.6 The aural and visual outputs as defined in Table 4-1 must be compatible with the standard
cockpit displays and auditory systems.
4.7 The aural and visual alerts should be selectable to accommodate operational commonality
among fleets of airplanes.
4.8 The visual display of alerting information must be immediately and continuously displayed
until the situation is no longer valid.
4.9 As a minimum, the TAWS must be capable of providing aural alert messages described in
Table 4 -1. In addition to this minimum set, other voice alerts may be provided.

Page 9

TSO-C151b

Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
TABLE 4 1
STANDARD SET OF VISUAL AND AURAL ALERTS
Alert Condition
Reduced Required
Terrain Clearance

Caution
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.

Class A & Class B

Aural Alert
Minimum Selectable Voice Alerts:
Caution, Terrain; Caution, Terrain and
Terrain Ahead; Terrain Ahead
Imminent Impact
with Terrain

Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.

Class A & Class B

Aural Alert
Minimum Selectable Voice Alerts:
Caution, Terrain; Caution, Terrain and
Terrain Ahead; Terrain Ahead
Premature Descent
Alert (PDA)

Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise and
must be consistent with the Aural message.

Warning
Visual Alert
Red text message that is obvious, concise
and must be consistent with the Aural
message.
Aural Alert
Minimum Selectable Voice Alerts:
Terrain, Terrain; Pull-Up, Pull- up and
Terrain Ahead, Pull- up; Terrain Ahead,
Pull-Up
Visual Alert
Red text message that is obvious, concise
and must be consistent with the Aural
message.
Aural Alert
Minimum Selectable Voice Alerts:
Terrain, Terrain; Pull-Up, Pull- up and
Terrain Ahead, Pull- up; Terrain Ahead,
Pull-Up
Visual Alert
None Required

Class A & Class B

Ground Proximity
Envelope 1, 2 or 3
Excessive
Descent Rate
Class A & Class B
Ground Proximity
Excessive Closure
Rate (Flaps not in
Landing
Configuration)
Class A
Ground Proximity
Excessive Closure
Rate (Landing
Configuration)
Class A

Page 10

Aural Alert
Too Low Terrain
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.
Aural Alert
Sink Rate
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.
Aural Alert
Terrain-Terrain
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.
Aural Alert
Terrain-Terrain

Aural Alert
None Required
Visual Alert
Red text message that is obvious, concise
and must be consistent with the Aural
message.
Aural Alert
Pull-Up
Visual Alert
Red text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural
message.
Aural Alert
Pull-Up
Visual Alert
None Required.
Aural Alert
Pull-Up for gear up
None Required for gear down

Appendix 1

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
TABLE 4 1 (Continued)
STANDARD SET OF VISUAL AND AURAL ALERTS
Alert Condition
Ground Proximity
Altitude Loss after
Take-off
Class A & Class B
Ground Proximity
Envelope 1
(Not in Landing
Configuration)
Class A
Ground Proximity
Envelope 2
Insufficient Terrain
Clearance
(Landing and Goaround
configuration)
Class A
Ground Proximity
Envelope 3
Insufficient Terrain
Clearance
(Take-off
configuration)
Class A
Ground Proximity
Excessive Glide
Slope Deviation
Class A

Ground Proximity
Voice Call Out
(See Note 1)
Class A & Class B

Caution
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise, and
must be consistent with the Aural message.

Warning
Visual Alert
None Required.

Aural Alert
Dont Sink and Too Low-Terrain
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise, and
must be consistent with the Aural message.

Aural Alert
None Required.
Visual Alert
None Required.

Aural Alert
Too Low Terrain and Too Low Gear
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise, and
must be consistent with the Aural message.

Aural Alert
None Required.
Visual Alert
None Required.

Aural Alert
Too Low Terrain and Too Low Flaps

Aural Alert
None Required

Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise, and
must be consistent with the Aural message.

Visual Alert
None Required.

Aural Alert
Too Low Terrain

Aural Alert
None Required

Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise, and
must be consistent with the Aural message.

Visual Alert
None Required.

Aural Alert
Glide Slope
Visual Alert
None Required

Aural Alert
None Required
Visual Alert
None Required.

Aural Alert
Five Hundred

Aural Alert
None Required

Page 11

TSO-C151b

Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
NOTE 1: The aural alert for Ground Proximity Voice Call Out is considered
advisory.
NOTE 2: Visual alerts may be put on the terrain situational awareness display, if
this fits with the overall human factors alerting scheme for the flight deck.
This does not eliminate the visual alert color requirements, even in the case of a monochromatic
display. Typically in such a scenario adjacent colored annunciator lamps meet the alerting color
requirements.
4.10 Prioritization
a. Class A Equipment. Class A Equipment must have an interactive capability with other
external alerting systems so an alerting priority can be automatically executed for the purpose of
not causing confusion or chaos on the flight deck during multiple alerts from different alerting
systems. Typical alerting systems that may be interactive with TAWS include Predictive
Windshear (PWS), Reactive Windshear (RWS), and possibly in the future Traffic Collision
Avoidance System (TCAS). Table 4-2 includes an alert prioritization scheme. If the PWS,
RWS and/or TCAS functions are provided within the TAWS, Table 4-2 also applies. The FAA
will consider alert prioritization schemes other than the one included in Table 4-2.
b. Class B Equipment. Class B Equipment does not require prioritization with external
systems such as TCAS, RWS, and PWS. If prioritization with those functions is provided, the
prioritization scheme must be in accordance with the Table 4-2.
c. Class B Equipment. Class B equipment must establish an internal priority alerting
system (scheme) for each of the functions. The priority scheme must ensure that more critical
alerts override the presentation of any alert of lesser priority. Table 4-3 is the internal priority
scheme of the system. Class B equipment need only consider the TAWS functions required for
Class B equipment.

Page 12

Appendix 1

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
Table 4-2
ALERT PRIORITIZATION SCHEME
Priority

Description

Alert
Level

Comments

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
Mode 6 a
Mode 6 a

Reactive Windshear Warning

Sink Rate Pull-Up Warning
Excessive Closure Pull-Up Warning
RTC Terrain Warning
V1 Callout
Engine Fail Callout
FLTA Pull-Up warning
PWS Warning
RTC Terrain Caution
Minimums
FLTA Caution
Too Low Terrain
PDA (Too Low Terrain)Caution
Altitude Callouts
Too Low Gear
Too Low Flaps
Sink Rate
Don't Sink
Glideslope
PWS Caution
Approaching Minimums
Bank Angle
Reactive Windshear Caution
TCAS RA ("Climb", "Descend", etc.)
TCAS TA ("Traffic, Traffic")

W
W
W
W
I
W
W
W
C
I
C
C
C
I
C
C
C
C
C
C
I
C
C
W
C

continuous
continuous

continuous
continuous
7 s period

3 s period

continuous
Continuous

NOTE 1: These alerts can occur simultaneously with TAWS voice callout alerts.
NOTE 2: W = Warning, C = Caution, A = Advisory, I = Informational

Page 13

TSO-C151b

Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
Table 4-3

Priority
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

TAWS INTERNAL ALERT PRIORITIZATION SCHEME

Description
Sink Rate Pull-Up Warning
Terrain Awareness Pull-Up warning
Terrain Awareness Caution
PDA ("Too Low Terrain") Caution
Altitude Callouts 500
Sink Rate
Don't Sink (Mode 3)

4.11 During ILS or other localizer-based approach operations, TAWS should not cause an alert
for a terrain/obstacle located outside the TERPS protected airspace. Special design
considerations may be necessary to address this issue.
NOTE 1: Non-GPS RNAV/FMC Systems that are used for the TAWS airplane
horizontal airplane information may be Localizer Updated to remove cross
track errors. In addition, the alerting envelope may be modified to account for the
higher accuracy and closer obstacles associated with ILS conditions.
NOTE 2: GPS-based Systems that are used for the TAWS airplane horizontal
airplane position information should be able to meet the minimum criteria found
in appendix 1, section 5.0.
NOTE 3: The level off initiation height of 20 percent of the vertical speed was
chosen (as a minimum standard for nuisance alarm-free operations) because it is
similar to typical autopilot or flight director level off (altitude capture) algorithms
whereas the technique of using 10 percent of the existing vertical speed as a level
off initiation point is usually considered as a minimum appropriate only to manual
operations of smaller general aviation airplanes. With high rates of descent,
experienced pilots often use a manual technique of reducing the vertical speed by
one half when reaching 1000 feet above/below the level off altitude. This
technique will significantly reduce the likelihood of nuisance alerts. In the event
that use of the 20 percent of vertical speed as a minimum standard for nuisance
free operations is shown not to be compatible with the installed autopilot or flight
director level off (altitude capture) algorithms, consideration should be given to
setting the alert logic closer to the 10 percent vertical speed criteria to minimize
nuisance alerts.
Page 14

Appendix 1

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
5.0 AIRPLANE HORIZONTAL POSITION DETERMINATION FOR SOURCE DATA.
5.1 Class A equipment. Class A equipment that uses the on-board airplane navigation system
for horizontal position information for the TAWS and that meets TSO-C115 or follows AC9045A for approved RNAV systems, TSO-C129a for GPS, TSO-C145 for WAAS, or that follows
the recommendations in AC 20-130a or AC-138 are considered acceptable. See note below.
5.2 Class B equipment. Class B equipment will be required to interface with an approved GPS
for horizontal position information as specified in 5.1. See note below.
NOTE: Experience with these systems to date and analysis support that, as
position accuracy decreases, a larger area must be considered for alerts in order
for the system to perform its intended function. As the area of consideration is
expanded and position accuracy is decreased the system tends to become more
prone to nuisance alerts. In order to keep the system nuisance free, the TAWS
must be inhibited or its operation degraded to accommodate certain types of
operations. Therefore designers should be aware that at the present time only
systems that use position information which provides GPS accuracy will be
considered to meet this TSO except for aircraft operated under 14 CFR part 121.
Operations under 14 CFR part 121 provide factors that compensate for the
decreased accuracy. These factors include type of operation, route structure
analysis, flight crew training, route proving requirements, continued
surveillance, and extensive operations into a limited number of airports.
5.3 Internal GPS Navigator Function. Class A and Class B equipment that use a GPS internal
to the TAWS for horizontal position information and are capable of detecting a positional error
that exceeds the appropriate alarm limit for the existing phase of flight in accordance with TSO C129a/RTCA/DO-208, or equivalent are considered acceptable. When this alarm limit is
activated, the GPS computed position is considered unsuitable for the TAWS function, and an
indication should be provided to the flight crew that the TAWS functions that require GPS for
operation are no longer available.
6.0 CLASS A AND CLASS B REQUIREMENTS FOR A TERRAIN AND AIRPORT
DATABASE.
6.1 Minimum Geographical Considerations. As a minimum, terrain and airport information
must be provided for the expected areas of operation, airports and routes to be flown.

Page 15

TSO-C151b

Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
6.2 Development and Methodology. The manufacturer must present the development and
methodology used to validate and verify the terrain and airport information. RTCA/DO200A/EUROCAE ED 76, Standards for Processing Aeronautical Data, should be used as a
guideline.
6.3 Resolution. Terrain and airport information must be of the accuracy and resolution suitable
for the system to perform its intended function. Terrain data should be gridded at 30 arc seconds
with 100 foot resolution within 30 nautical miles of all airports with runway lengths of 3500 feet
or greater and whenever necessary (particularly in mountainous environments) 15 arc seconds
with 100 foot resolution (or even 6 arc seconds) within 6 nautical miles of the closest runway. It
is acceptable to have terrain data gridded in larger segments over oceanic and remote areas
around the world.
NOTE: Class B equipment may require information relative to airports with
runways less than 3500 feet whether public or private. Small airplane owners and
operators, and small non-schedule part 135 operators probably will be the largest
market for Class B equipment. Such operators frequently use airports of less than
3500 feet. Those TAWS manufacturers who desire to sell to this market must be
willing to customize their terrain databases to include selected airports used by
their customers.
6.4 Updates and Continued Airworthiness. The system must be capable of accepting updated
terrain and airport information.
7.0 CLASS A AND CLASS B FAILURE INDICATION. Class A and Class B equipment
must include a failure monitor function that provides reliable indications of equipment condition
during operation. It must monitor the equipment itself, input power, input signals, and aural and
visual outputs. A means must be provided to inform the flight crew whenever the system has
failed or can no longer perform the intended function.
8.0 CLASS A AND CLASS B REQUIREMENTS FOR SELF-TEST. Class A and Class B
equipment must have a self-test function to verify system operation and integrity. It must
monitor the equipment itself, input power, input signals, and aural and visual outputs. Failure of
the system to successfully pass the self-test must be annunciated.
NOTE: Flight crew verification of the aural and visual outputs during a
self-test is an acceptable method for monitoring aural and visual outputs.

Page 16

Appendix 1

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
9.0 CLASS A EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS
INHIBIT FOR THE FLTA FUNCTION, THE PREMATURE DESCENT ALERT
FUNCTION AND TERRAIN DISPLAY.
9.1 Manual Inhibit. Class A equipment must have the capability, via a control switch to the
flight crew, to inhibit only the FLTA function, the Premature Descent Alert function, and Terrain
Display. This is required in the event of a navigational system failure or other failures that
would adversely affect FLTA, the Premature Descent Alert function or the Terrain Display. The
basic TAWS required functions must remain active when the inhibit function is utilized.
9.2 Automatic Inhibit. The capability of automatically inhibiting Class A functions within
TAWS equipment is acceptable utilizing the conditions described in section 7.0. If auto inhibit
capability is provided, the inhibit status must be annunciated to the flight crew.
10.0 PHASE OF FLIGHT DEFINITIONS. The TAWS equipment search volumes and
alerting thresholds should vary as necessary to be compatible with TERPS and other operational
considerations. For that reason, a set of definitions is offered for Enroute, Terminal, Approach
and Departure Phases of Flight. Other definitions for enroute, terminal and approach may be
used by TAWS provided they are compatible with TERPS and standard instrument approach
procedures and will comply with the test criteria specified in appendix 3.
10.1 Enroute Phase. The Enroute Phase exists anytime the airplane is more than 15 NM from
the nearest airport or whenever the conditions for Terminal, Approach and Departure Phases are
not met.
10.2 Terminal Phase. The Terminal Phase exists when the airplane is 15 NM or less from the
nearest runway while the range to the nearest runway threshold is decreasing and the airplane is
at or below (lower than) a straight line drawn between the two points specified in Table 10-1
relative to the nearest runway.

TABLE 10-1
HEIGHT ABOVE RUNWAY VERSUS DISTANCE TO RUNWAY
Distance to Runway
Height above Runway
15 NM
3500 Feet
5 NM
1900 Feet

Page 17

TSO-C151b

Appendix 1

APPENDIX 1. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASSES A AND B (continued)
10.3 Approach Phase. Distance to nearest runway threshold is equal to, or less than 5 NM; and
height above the nearest runway threshold location and elevation is equal to, or less than 1900
feet; and distance to the nearest runway threshold is decreasing.
10.4 Departure Phase. The Departure Phase should be defined by some reliable parameter that
initially determines that the airplane is on the ground upon initial power-up. If, for example, the
equipment can determine that the airplane is on the ground by using some logic such as ground
speed less than 35 knots and altitude within +/- 75 feet of field elevation or nearest runway
elevation) and airborne by using some logic such as ground speed greater than 50 knots and
altitude 100 feet greater than field elevation, then the equipment can reliably determine that it is
in the Departure Phase. Other parameters to consider are climb state, and distance from
departure runway. Once the airplane reaches 1500 feet above the departure runway, the
Departure Phase is ended.
11.0 CLASS A AND CLASS B SUMMARY REQUIREMENTS. A Summary Table of
Requirements is provided in Table 11-1. This is provided only as convenience and general
information. Official, regulatory requirements are contained in the Federal Aviation
Regulations.
TABLE 11-1
CLASS A AND B SUMMARY REQUIREMENTS
TAWS
CLASS

OPERATIN
G
RULE
121
135
135
91

A
A
B
B

PAX
SEATS
(MIN)
See Note
>9
6-9
= or >6

FLTA

PDA

YES
YES
YES
YES

YES
YES
YES
YES

GPWS
DO161A
1-6
1-6
1,3,6
1,3,6

FMS/RNAV
OR
GPS
FMS OR GPS
GPS
GPS
GPS

TERRAIN
DISPLAY
MANDATORY
YES
YES
NO
NO

NOTE: There is no seat threshold for 14 CFR part 121. All 14 CFR part 121
airplanes affected by the TAWS rules must install TAWS regardless of number of
seats.

Page 18

TERRAIN/
AIRPORT
DATABASE
YES
YES
YES
YES

Appendix 2

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 2. STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO ENVIRONMENTAL TEST

PROCEDURES

RESERVED FOR MODIFICATIONS OF OR ADDITIONAL

REQUIREMENTS BEYOND THE TEST PROCEDURES
CONTAINED IN RTCA DOCUMENT No. (RTCA/DO)-160D.

Page 1

Appendix 3

TSO-C151b
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS

1.0 FORWARD LOOKING TERRAIN AVOIDANCE - REDUCED REQUIRED

TERRAIN CLEARANCE (RTC) TEST CONDITIONS. This condition exists, when the
airplane is currently above the terrain but the combination of current altitude, height above
terrain, and projected flight path indicates that there is a significant reduction in the Required
Terrain Clearance (RTC).
1.1 Phase of Flight Definitions. For the following test conditions, refer to appendix 1,
paragraph 10.0 for an expanded discussion on the definitions of the phases of flight.
1.2 Enroute Descent Requirement. A terrain alert must be provided in time so as to assure
that the airplane can level off (L/O) with a minimum of 500 feet altitude clearance over the
terrain/obstacle when descending toward the terrain/obstacle at any speed within the operational
flight envelope of the airplane. The test conditions assume a descent along a flight path that has
terrain that is 1000 feet below the expected level off altitude. If the pilot initiates the level off at
the proper altitude, no TAWS alert would be expected. However, if the pilot is distracted or
otherwise delays the level off, a TAWS alert is required to permit the pilot to recover to level
flight in a safe manner.
a. See Table A. Column A represents the test condition. Columns B, C, and D are for
information purposes only. Column E represents the Minimum Altitude for which TAWS alerts
must be posted to perform their intended function. Column F represents the Maximum altitude
for which TAWS alerts may be provided in order to meet the nuisance alert criteria. See
appendix 3, section 4.0.
b. For each of the Descent rates specified below, recovery to level flight at or above 500 feet
terrain clearance is required.
c. Test Conditions for 1.2:
Assumed Pilot response time:
3.0 seconds minimum
Assumed constant G pull-up:
0.25 gs
Minimum Allowed Terrain Clearance: 500 feet AGL
Descent rates:
1000, 2000, 4000, and 6000 fpm
Assumed Pilot Task for Column F: Level off at 1000 feet above the terrain per TERPS
Required Obstacle Clearance (ROC).
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the
terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted and the minimum terrain
clearance altitude must be recorded.
NOTE 2: Enroute operations are considered to exist beyond 15nm from the
departure runway until 15 NM from the destination airport. Use of the nearest

Page 1

TSO-C151b

Appendix 3
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

runway logic is permissible provided suitable logic is incorporated to ensure that

the transitions to the terminal logic will typically occur only when the airplane is
in terminal airspace.
NOTE 3: The values shown in column E may be reduced by 100 feet (to permit
a level off to occur at 400 feet above the obstacle) provided that it can be
demonstrated that the basic TAWS Mode 1 alert (sink rate) is issued at, or above,
the altitude specified in column E for typical terrain topographies.
NOTE 4: Class B Equipment Considerations. The values shown in Column F
are appropriate for Autopilot or Flight Director operations with an Altitude
Capture function typical of many 14 CFR part 25 certificated airplanes (Large
Airplanes). The values are based upon 20 percent of the airplanes vertical
velocity. If TAWS is installed on an airplane without such an Autopilot or Flight
Director function, consideration should be given to computing the alerts based
upon 10 percent of the vertical velocity which is more appropriate to manual
flight and small general aviation airplane operations.
TABLE A

A
VERT
SPEED
(FPM)

B
ALT LOST
WITH 3 SEC
PILOT
DELAY

Enroute Descent Alerting Criteria

C
D
TOTAL ALT
ALT
LOST DUE TO
REQD TO
RECOVERY
L/O WITH
MANEUVER
0.25G

1000
2000
4000

50
100
200

17
69
278

67
169
478

E
MINIMUM
TAWS
WARNING
ALERT
HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
567
669
978

F
MAXIMUM
CAUTION
ALERT
HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
1200
1400
1800

1.3 Enroute Level Flight Requirement. During level flight operations (vertical speed is +/500 feet per minute), a terrain alert should be posted when the airplane is within 700 feet of the
terrain and is predicted to be equal to or less than 700 feet within the prescribed alerting time or
distance. See Table B for Test Criteria.
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the terrain
cell when caution and warning alerts are posted must be recorded.

Page 2

Appendix 3

TSO-C151b
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)
TABLE B

GROUND
SPEED
(KT)
200
250
300
200
250
300
400
500

Enroute Level Flight Alerting Criteria

TEST RUN
HEIGHT OF
ALTITUDE
TERRAIN CELL
(MSL)
(MSL)
5000
6000
5000
5800
5000
5800
5000
5700 (+0/-100)
5000
5700 (+0/-100)
5000
5700 (+0/-100)
5000
5700 (+0/-100)
5000
5700 (+0/-100)

ALERT
CRITERIA
NO ALERT
NO ALERT
NO ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT

1.4 Terminal Area (Intermediate Segment) Descent Requirement. A terrain alert must be
provided in time so as to assure that the airplane can level off (L/O) with a minimum of 300 feet
altitude clearance over the terrain/obstacle when descending toward the terrain/obstacle at any
speed within the operational flight envelope of the airplane. The test conditions assume a
descent along a flight path that has terrain that is 500 feet below the expected level off altitude.
If the pilot initiates the level off at the proper altitude, no TAWS alert would be expected.
However, if the pilot is distracted or otherwise delays the level off, a TAWS alert is required to
permit the pilot to recover to level flight in a safe manner.
a. See Table C: Column A represents the test condition. Columns B, C, and D are for
information purposes only. Column E represents the Minimum Altitude for which TAWS alerts
must be posted to perform their intended function. Column F represents the Maximum altitude
for which TAWS alerts may be provided in order to meet the nuisance alert criteria. See
appendix 3, section 4.0.
b. For each of the Descent rates specified below, recovery to level flight at or above 300 feet
terrain clearance is required.
c. Test Conditions for 1.4:
Assumed Pilot response time:
1.0 second minimum
Assumed constant G pull-up:
0.25 gs
Minimum Allowed Terrain Clearance: 300 feet AGL
Descent rates:
1000, 2000, and 3000 fpm
Assumed Pilot Task for Column F: Level off at 500 feet above the terrain per TERPS
Required Obstacle Clearance (ROC).

Page 3

TSO-C151b

Appendix 3
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the
terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted and the minimum terrain
clearance altitude must be recorded.
NOTE 2: For Class B Equipment Considerations. The values shown in
Column F are appropriate for Autopilot or Flight Director operations with an
Altitude Capture function typical of many 14 CFR part 25 certificated airplanes
(Large Airplanes). The values are based upon 20 percent of the airplanes vertical
velocity. If TAWS is installed on an airplane without such an Autopilot or Flight
Director function, consideration should be given to computing the alerts upon 10
percent of the vertical velocity which is more appropriate to manual flight and
small general aviation airplane operations.
TABLE C

A
VERT
SPEED
(FPM)

1000
2000
3000

Terminal Descent Area Alerting Criteria

B
C
D
E
MINIMUM
TOTAL ALT
ALT
ALT LOST
TAWS
LOST DUE TO
REQD TO
WITH 1 SEC
WARNING
RECOVERY
L/O WITH
PILOT
ALERT
MANEUVER
0.25G
DELAY
HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
17
17
34
334
33
69
102
402
50
156
206
506

F
MAXIMUM
TAWS
CAUTION
ALERT
HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
700
900
1100

1.5 Terminal Area (Intermediate Segment) Level Flight Requirement. During level flight
operations (vertical speed less than +/-500 feet per minute), a terrain alert should be posted when
the airplane is less than 350 above the terrain and is predicted to be within less than 350 feet
within the prescribed alerting time or distance. See Table D for Test Criteria.
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the
terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted must be recorded.

Page 4

Appendix 3

TSO-C151b
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)
TABLE D

GROUND
SPEED
(KT)
150
200
250
100
150
200
250

Terminal Area Level Flight Alerting Criteria

TEST RUN
HEIGHT OF
ALTITUDE
TERRAIN
(MSL)
CELL (MSL)
1000
1500
1000
1500
1000
1500
1000
1350
1000
1350
1000
1350
1000
1350

ALERT
CRITERIA:
NO ALERT
NO ALERT
NO ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT

1.6 Final Approach Segment Descent Requirement. A terrain alert must be provided in time
to assure that the airplane can level off (L/O) with a minimum of 100 feet altitude clearance over
the terrain/obstacle when descending toward the terrain/obstacle at any speed within the
operational flight envelope of the airplane.
a. See Table E. Column A represents the test condition. Columns B, C, and D are for
information purposes only. Column E represents the Minimum Altitude for which TAWS alerts
must be posted to perform their intended function. Column F represents the Maximum altitude
for which TAWS alerts may be provided in order to meet the nuisance alert criteria. See
appendix 3, section 4.0.
b. For each of the Descent rates specified below, recovery to level flight at or above 100 feet
terrain clearance is required.
c. Test Conditions for 1.6:
Assumed Pilot response time:
1.0 seconds minimum
Assumed constant G pull-up:
0.25 gs
Minimum Allowed Terrain Clearance: 100 feet AGL
Descent rates:
500, 750, 1000, and 1500 fpm
Assumed Pilot Task for Column F: Level off at 250 feet above the terrain per TERPS
Required Obstacle Clearance (ROC).
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the
terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted and the minimum terrain
clearance altitude must be recorded.

Page 5

TSO-C151b

Appendix 3
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

NOTE 2: For Class B equipment Considerations. The values shown in Column F

are appropriate for Autopilot or Flight Director operations with an Altitude
Capture function typical of many 14 CFR part 25 certificated airplanes (Large
Airplanes). The values are based upon 20 percent of the airplanes vertical
velocity. If TAWS is installed on an airplane without such an Autopilot or Flight
Director function, consideration should be given to computing the alerts based
upon 10 percent of the vertical velocity which is more appropriate to manual
flight and small general aviation airplane operations.
TABLE E

A
VERT
SPEED
(FPM)

B
ALT LOST
WITH 1 SEC
PILOT
DELAY

ALT
REQD TO
L/O WITH
0.25G

D
TOTAL ALT
LOST DUE TO
RECOVERY
MANEUVER

500
750
1000
1500

8
12
17
25

4
10
18
39

12
22
35
64

Page 6

E
MINIMUM
TAWS
WARNING
ALERT
HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
112
122
135
164

F
MAXIMUM
TAWS
CAUTION
ALERT
HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
350
400
450
550

Appendix 3

TSO-C151b
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

1.7 Final Approach Level Flight Requirement. During level flight operations at the
Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA), a terrain alert should be posted when the airplane is within
150 feet of the terrain and is predicted to be within less than 150 feet within the prescribed
alerting time or distance. See Table F for test criteria.
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the
terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted must be recorded.
TABLE F

GROUND
SPEED
(KT)
120
140
160
120
140
160
100
120
140
160

Final Approach Level Flight Alerting Criteria:

TEST RUN
DISTANCE
HEIGHT OF
ALTI-TUDE
TERRAIN
TERRAIN
(MSL)
FROM RWY (NM)
CELL (MSL)
400
2.0
650
400
2.0
650
400
2.0
650
400
2.0
600
400
2.0
600
400
2.0
600
400
2.0
550
400
2.0
550
400
2.0
550
400
2.0
550

ALERT
CRITERIA
NO ALERT
NO ALERT
NO ALERT
MAY ALERT
MAY ALERT
MAY ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT

Page 7

TSO-C151b

Appendix 3
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

2.0 FORWARD LOOKING TERRAIN AVOIDANCE IMMINENT TERRAIN IMPACT

TEST CONDITIONS. The following test conditions must be conducted to evaluate level flight
performance during all phases of flight:
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the
terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted must be recorded.
NOTE 2: Based upon a one second pilot delay and a 0.25 g incremental pull to
constant 6.0 degree climb gradient, compute and record the airplane altitude at the
terrain cell, the positive (or negative) clearance altitude, and the airplane position
and time (after the alert), when the alert envelope is cleared.
2.1 Test Criteria. For each of the test cases below, a positive clearance of the terrain cell of
interest is required.
2.2 Additional Test Criteria. Repeat each of the test cases below with the altitude error (-100
feet or -200 feet). A positive clearance of the terrain cell of interest is required.
TABLE G

GROUND
SPEED
(KT)
200
250
300
400
500
150
200
250
100
120
140
100
120
140
160
160

Page 8

Imminent Terrain Impact Alerting Criteria

TEST RUN
DISTANCE
HEIGHT OF
ALTITUDE
TERRAIN
TERRAIN
(MSL)
FROM RWY
CELL (MSL)
(NM)
10000
30
9000
10000
30
9000
10000
30
9000
10000
30
8000
10000
30
8000
2000
10
1500
2000
10
1500
2000
10
1500
600
5
500
600
5
500
600
5
500
600
4
200
600
4
200
600
4
200
600
4
200
600
5
500

ALERT
CRITERIA

MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT

Appendix 3

TSO-C151b
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

3.0 PREMATURE DESCENT ALERT TEST CONDITIONS. The purpose of this test is to
verify that the pilot will be alerted to a low altitude condition at an altitude that is defined by
the specific design PDA Alert surface. This TSO will not define specific pass/fail criteria since,
as stated in paragraph 3.2 of appendix 1, it does not define the surfaces for which alerting is
required. The applicant must provide its proposed pass/fail criteria along with the proposed
recovery procedures for the specific alerting criteria proposed by the applicant. In developing its
test plan, the applicant should refer to paragraph 3.2 of appendix 1 that contain some general
requirements for alerting and some cases when alerting is inappropriate. The applicant also may
want to consider the recovery procedures specified in sections 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 of paragraph 1 of
appendix 3. The following test conditions must be conducted to evaluate PDA performance.
3.1 Test Conditions for 3.0 Premature Descent Alerts.
Descent rates: 750, 1500, 2000, 3000 FPM
Assumed Runway Elevation: Sea Level, Level Terrain
NOTE: For each test condition listed in Table H, compute and record the PDA
alert altitude and the recovery altitude to level flight.
TABLE H

GROUND
SPEED
(KT)

80
100
120
140
160
200
250
80
100
120
140
160
80

Premature Descent Alerting Criteria

RECOVERY
PDA
VERT. DISTANCE
ALTITUDE
ALERT
SPEED FROM RWY
(MSL)
HEIGHT
(FPM) THRESHOLD
(MSL)
(Touchdown)
(NM)
750
15
1500
15
750
15
1500
15
750
15
1500
15
2000
15
750
12
1500
12
750
12
1500
12
750
12
750
4

Page 9

TSO-C151b

Appendix 3
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

TABLE H (continued)

GROUND
SPEED
(KT)

100
120
140
80
100
120
140

Premature Descent Alerting Criteria

RECOVERY
PDA
VERT. DISTANCE
ALTITUDE
ALERT
SPEED FROM RWY
(MSL)
HEIGHT
(FPM) THRESHOLD
(MSL)
(Touchdown)
(NM)
1500
4
750
4
1500
4
750
2
1500
2
750
2
1500
2

4.0 NUISANCE ALERT TEST CONDITIONS - GENERAL. The following test conditions
must be conducted to evaluate TAWS performance during all phases of flight. The following
general criteria apply:
4.1 4000 FPM. It must be possible to descend at 4000 FPM in the enroute airspace and level
off 1000 feet above the terrain using a normal level off procedure (leading the level off by 20
percent of the vertical speed) without a caution or warning alert. See Table A.
4.2 2000 FPM. It must be possible to descend at 2000 FPM in the Terminal area and level off
500 feet above the terrain using the normal level off procedure described in 4.1 above, without a
caution or warning alert. See Table C.
4.3 1000 FPM. It must be possible to descend at 1000 FPM in the Final Approach Segment and
level off at the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) using the normal level off procedure
described in 4.1 above, without a caution or warning alert. See Table E.
5.0 NUISANCE TEST CONDITIONS FOR HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL FLIGHT
TECHNICAL ERRORS. It must be shown, by analysis, simulation or flight testing, that the
system will not produce nuisance alerts when the airplane is conducting normal flight operations
in accordance with published instrument approach procedure. This assumes the normal range in
variation of input parameters.

Page 10

Appendix 3

TSO-C151b
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

5.1 Test Cases. As a minimum, the following cases (1-9) must be tested twice; one set of runs
will be conducted with no lateral or vertical errors while another set of runs will be conducted
with both lateral and vertical Flight Technical Errors (FTE). A lateral FTE of 0.3 NM and a
vertical FTE of -100 feet (aircraft is closer to terrain) up to the FAF and a lateral FTE of 0.3 NM
and a vertical FTE of -50 feet from the FAF to the Missed Approach Point (MAP) must be
simulated. For all listed VOR, VOR/DME and Localizer based approaches, from the FAF to the
MAP the airplane will descend at 1000 FPM until reaching either MDA (run #1) or MDA-50
feet (run #2). The airplane will then level off and fly level until reaching the MAP. Localizer
updating of lateral position errors (if provided) may be simulated.

TABLE I
Nuisance Alert Test Conditions for Horizontal and
Vertical Flight Technical Errors
Case

Location

Operation

Quito, Ecuador

VOR QIT-ILS Rwy 35

Katmandu, Nepal

VOR-DME Rwy 2

Windsor Locks, CT

VOR Rwy 15

Calvi, France

LOC DME Rwy 18 / Circle

Tegucigalpa, Honduras

VOR DME Rwy 1 / Circle

Eagle, CO

LOC DME-C

Monterey, CA

LOC DME Rwy 28L

Juneau, AK

LDA-1 Rwy 8

Chambery, France

ILS Rwy 18

6.0 TEST CONDITIONS USING KNOWN ACCIDENT CASES. The aircraft configuration
and flight trajectory for each case may be obtained from the Operations Assessment Division,
DTS-43, Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, Cambridge, Massachusetts or at the
FAA web page at the following address: http://www.faa.gov/avr/air/airhome.htm or
http://www.faa.gov and then select Regulation and Certification, select Aircraft
Certification.

Page 11

TSO-C151b

Appendix 3
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

6.1 Test Report. The test report should include as many of the following parameters use to
recreate the events. They are (1) latitude; (2) longitude; (3) altitude; (4) time from terrain at
caution and warning alerts; (5) distance from terrain at caution and warning alerts; (6) ground
speed; (7) true track; (8) true heading; (9) radio altitude; (height above terrain) (10) gear
position; and (11) flap position.
6.2 Computation and Recording. In addition to the above when the warning is posted, for
each test case, based upon a one second pilot delay and a 0.25 g incremental pull to a constant
6.0 degree climb gradient, do the following. Compute and record the airplane altitude at the
terrain cell, the positive (or negative) clearance altitude, and the airplane position and time (after
the alert), when the alert envelope is cleared.
NOTE: The terrain cell of interest is the one associated with the accident and not
necessarily the terrain cell that caused the warning.
6.3 Test Criteria. In each of the test cases below, it must be necessary to demonstrate that the
airplane profile clears the terrain cell of interest.
TABLE J

LOCATION
La Paz, Bolivia
Flat Rock, NC
Windsor, MA
Eagle, CO
Tegucigalpa, Honduras
Halawa Point, HI
San Diego, CA
Rome, GA
Gabriels, NY
Alamogordo, NM
E. Granby, CT
Buga, Columbia
Nimitz Hill, Guam

Page 12

Known Accident Cases

IATA
DATE
AIRCRAFT REGISTRATION
CODE
NUMBER
1/1/85
N819EA
8/23/85
N600CM
12/10/86
N65TD
3/27/87
N31SK
10/21/89
N88705
10/28/89
N707PV
3/16/91
N831LC
12/11/91
N25BR
1/3/92
N55000
6/24/92
N108SC
11/12/95
N566AA
12/20/95
N651AA
8/6/97
H7468

Appendix 3

TSO-C151b
APPENDIX 3. TEST CONDITIONS (continued)

7.0 CLASS B EQUIPMENT TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR EXCESSIVE DESCENT

RATE. Use the following performance envelopes down to a Height above Terrain value of
100 feet. Instead of using Height of Terrain as determined by a radio altimeter, determine
Height above Terrain as determined by subtracting the Terrain Elevation (from the Terrain
Data Base) from the current QNH barometric altitude (or equivalent). The curve represents the
minimum heights at which alerting must occur.
NOTE: Class B equipment may be designed to meet the requirements of
RTCA/DO-161A for Excessive Descent Rate in lieu of the requirements of 7.0

EXCES SI VE DESCENT R ATE

5000

HEI GHT ABO VE TERRAI N(FEET)

4500

4000

3500

IN
S

TE
RA

3000

P
U
L
UL
P

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

0
0

2000

4000

6000

8000

10000

12000

DES CENT RATE (FPM)

8.0 CLASS B EQUIPMENT TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR NEGATIVE CLIMB RATE

OR ALTITUDE LOSS AFTER TAKEOFF. Use the existing performance envelopes
specified in RTCA/DO-161A based upon a Height above Runway using barometric altitude
(or equivalent) and runway elevation in lieu of radio altimeter inputs.
9.0 CLASS B EQUIPMENT TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ALTITUDE
CALLOUTS. Instead of using Height of Terrain as determined by a radio altimeter, determine
Height above runway as determined by subtracting the Runway Elevation (from the Airport Data
Base) from the current barometric altitude (or equivalent). When the Height above Terrain value
first reaches 500 feet, a single voice alert (Five Hundred ) or equivalent must be provided.

Page 13

Appendix 4

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C
1.0 INTRODUCTION.
1.1 This appendix describes modifications to this TSO for General Aviation (GA) category of
aircraft not required to have TAWS equipment installed. Class C equipment is intended for
small GA airplanes that are not required to install Class B equipment.
1.2 This appendix contains only modifications to existing requirements in this TSO. It is
intended that Class C meet all Class B requirements that are not modified or addressed here. The
paragraph numbers below relate directly to the paragraphs in appendices 1 and 3.
2.0 CLASS C.
Class C TAWS equipment must meet all the requirements of a Class B TAWS with the small
aircraft modifications described herein. If the equipment is designed only to function as Class C,
per these modifications, it should be appropriately marked as Class C so that it can be uniquely
distinguished from the Class A and B TAWS required by 14 CFR parts 91, 135, and 121.

Modifications to Appendix 1.
Minimum performance Standards, MPS
1.1 Phase of Flight Definitions. For appendix 4, the terms takeoff, cruise, and landing
are used instead of departure, enroute, and approach because they are more suitable to the
GA environment.
Takeoff positive ROC, inside traffic area, distance to nearest runway threshold is increasing,
and airplane is below 1,000 feet.
Cruise anytime the airplane is outside the airport traffic control area.
Landing inside traffic area and distance to nearest runway threshold is decreasing, and airplane
is below 1,000 feet.
1.2 Altitude Accuracy. A means must be provided to compute an actual MSL aircraft altitude
value that is immune to temperature errors and manual correction mis-sets that would otherwise
prevent the TAWS from performing its intended function. If the TAWS includes a terrain
display output, this reference altitude value used for the TAWS alerts should also be output for
display. Since the altitude value is necessarily based upon GPS derived MSL altitude, which is
required for horizontal position in all class B & C TAWS, the displayed value must be labeled
MSL/G or MSL-G, or other obvious acronym that relates to the pilot that altitude is GPS derived
MSL altitude. .

Page 1

TSO-C151b
Appendix 4
APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM
PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C (continued)

1.3 (f)(3) System Function and Overview. This data is pilot selectable for both altitude and
inhibit.
3.1.1 Reduced Required Terrain Clearance (RTC). The required terrain clearance in the
Altered Table 3.1 applies to small aircraft flying visually, and the TERPS criteria need not apply
to TAWS. Thus, ROC numbers more appropriate to low level visual flight have been chosen.
Alternate Table 3.1 is shown below.
TABLE 3.1
TAWS REQUIRED TERRAIN CLEARANCE (RTC) BY PHASE OF FLIGHT
Phase of Flight
Small Aircraft
TAWS (RTC)
TAWS (RTC)
ROC
Level Flight
Descending
Cruise

500 Feet

250 Feet

200 Feet

Takeoff

48 Feet/NM

100 Feet

100 Feet

250 Feet

150 Feet

100 Feet

Landing (See Note 1)

NOTE 1: During the Takeoff Phase of Flight, the FLTA function must alert if the
aircraft is projected to be within 100 feet vertically of terrain. However, the
equipment should not alert if the aircraft is projected to be more than 250 feet above
the terrain.
3.3.c Voice Callouts. This data is pilot selectable for both altitude and inhibit.

Page 2

Appendix 4

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C (continued)
4.0 Aural and Visual Alerts
TABLE 4 1
STANDARD SET OF VISUAL AND AURAL ALERTS
Alert Condition
Terrain Awareness
Reduced Required
Terrain Clearance

Caution
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.

Terrain Awareness
Imminent Impact
with Terrain

Aural Alert
Minimum Selectable Voice Alert:
Caution, Terrain; Caution, Terrain
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.

Terrain Awareness
Premature Descent
Alert (PDA)

Ground Proximity
Excessive
Descent Rate

Ground Proximity
Altitude Loss after
Take-off

Ground Proximity
Voice Call Out
(See Note 1)

Aural Alert
Minimum Selectable Voice Alert:
Caution, Terrain; Caution, Terrain
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise and
must be consistent with the Aural message.
Aural Alert
Too Low; Too Low
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.
Aural Alert
Sink Rate
Visual Alert
Amber text message that is obvious, concise,
and must be consistent with the Aural message.
Aural Alert
Dont Sink
Visual Alert
None Required
Aural Alert
Five Hundred or selected altitude

Warning
Visual Alert
Red text message that is obvious, concise
and must be consistent with the Aural
message.
Aural Alert
Minimum Selectable Voice Alert:
Terrain; Terrain
Visual Alert
Red text message that is obvious, concise
and must be consistent with the Aural
message.
Aural Alert
Minimum Selectable Voice Alert:
Terrain; Terrain
Visual Alert
None Required
Aural Alert
None Required
Visual Alert
Red text message that is obvious, concise
and must be consistent with the Aural
message.
Aural Alert
Pull-Up
Visual Alert
None Required.
Aural Alert
None Required.
Visual Alert
None Required.
Aural Alert
None Required

Page 3

TSO-C151b
Appendix 4
APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM
PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C (continued)
NOTE 1: The aural alert for Ground Proximity Voice Call Out is considered advisory.
NOTE 2: Visual alerts may be put on the terrain situational awareness display, if this
fits with the overall human factors alerting scheme for the flight deck. This does not
eliminate the visual alert color requirements, even in the case of a monochromatic
display. Typically in such a scenario, adjacent colored enunciator lamps meet the alerting
color requirements. Audio alerts are still required regardless of terrain display visual
alerts.

Modifications to Appendix 3, Test Conditions.

NOTE 1: Paragraph 1.1 of the TSO is not applicable; for small aircraft
only three phases of flight are considered, take-off, cruise, and final
approach to landing
NOTE 2: Paragraph 1.2 of the TSO is changed to specify altitude
levels, test speeds and pull-ups more appropriate for small aircraft:
1.2 Cruise Descent Requirements. A terrain alert must be provided in time so as to assure that
the airplane can level off (L/O) with a minimum of 200 feet altitude clearance over the
terrain/obstacle when descending toward the terrain/obstacle at any speed within the operational
flight envelope of the airplane. The test conditions assume a descent along a flight path that has
terrain that is 500 feet below the expected level off altitude. If the pilot initiates the level off at
the proper altitude, no TAWS alert would be expected. However, if the pilot is distracted or
otherwise delays the level off, a TAWS alert is required to permit the pilot to recover to level
flight in a safe manner.
a. See Table A. Column A represents the test condition. Columns B, C, and D are for
information purposes only. Column E represents the Minimum Altitude for which TAWS
alerts must be posted to perform their intended function. Column F represents the Maximum
altitude for which TAWS alerts may be provided in order to meet the nuisance alert criteria.
See appendix 3, section 4.0
b. For each of the Descent rates specified below, recovery to level flight at or above 200 feet
terrain clearance is required.

Page 4

Appendix 4

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C (continued)
c. Test Conditions for 1.2:
Assumed Pilot response time:
Assumed constant G pull-up:
Minimum Allowed Terrain Clearance:
Descent rates:

3.0 seconds minimum

1.0 g
200 feet AGL
500, 1000, and 2000 fpm

Assumed Pilot Task for Column F: Level off at 500 feet above the terrain per
Appendix 4 Table 31 Required Obstacle Clearance (ROC).
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the
terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted and the minimum terrain
clearance altitude must be recorded.
NOTE 2: Cruise operations are considered to exist beyond the airport control
area until inside the destination airport control area for VFR operations. Distances
may extend to 10 NM from the airport (takeoff and landing) for IFR operations.
Use of the nearest runway logic is permissible provided suitable logic is
incorporated to ensure that the transitions to the terminal logic will typically
occur only when the airplane is in terminal airspace.
NOTE 3: The values shown in column E may be reduced by 50 feet (to permit a
level off to occur at 150 feet above the obstacle) provided that it can be
demonstrated that the basic TAWS Mode 1 alert (sink rate) is issued at, or above,
the altitude specified in column E for typical terrain topographies.
NOTE 4: The values shown in Column F are appropriate for an airplane without
an Autopilot or Flight Director function, and are based upon 10-15 percent of the
vertical velocity, which is appropriate to manual flight and small general aviation
airplane operations.

Page 5

TSO-C151b
Appendix 4
APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM
PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS
AND WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C (continued)

TABLE A
ENROUTE DESCENT ALERTING CRITERIA
Alerting for Premature Descent during Cruise
A
VERT
SPEED
(FPM)

B
ALT LOST
WITH 3 SEC
PILOT
DELAY

C
ALT
REQD TO
L/O WITH
1 G PULLUP

D
TOTAL ALT
LOST DUE TO
RECOVERY
MANEUVER

500
1000
2000

25
50
100

1
4
17

26
54
117

E
MINIMUM
TAWS
WARNING
ALERT HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
226
254
317

F
MAXIMUM
CAUTION
ALERT HEIGHT
(ABOVE TERRAIN)

550
600
800

TSO Note: Paragraph 1.3 in the TSO is changed to specify altitude levels,
test speeds and pull-ups more appropriate to small aircraft:

1.3 Cruise Level Flight Requirement. During level flight operations (vertical speed is 200
feet per minute), a terrain alert should be posted when the airplane is within 250 feet of the
terrain and is predicted to be equal to or less than 200 feet within the prescribed test criteria. See
Table B for Test Criteria.
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from
the terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted must be recorded.

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Appendix 4

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS
AND WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C (continued)

TABLE B
Level Cruise Flight Alerting Criteria
GROUND SPEED
(KT)
100
150
200
100
150
200

HEIGHT OF TERRAIN
CELL (MSL)
5000
5000
5000
5000
5000
5000

TEST RUN
ALTITUDE
(MSL)
5340 (+0/-50)
5340 (+0/-50)
5340 (+0/-50)
5240 (+0/-50)
5240 (+0/-50)
5240 (+0/-50)

ALERT
CRITERIA
NO ALERT
NO ALERT
NO ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT
MUST ALERT

1.4 Terminal Area (Intermediate Segment) Descent Requirement. Not

applicable.
1.5 Terminal Area (Intermediate Segment) Level Flight Requirement. Not
applicable.
1.6 Final Approach Descent Requirements. Revised to specify altitude levels,
test speeds and pull-ups more appropriate to small aircraft:
a. See Table E. Column A represents the test condition. Columns B, C, and D are for
information purposes only. Column E represents the Minimum Altitude for which TAWS
alerts must be posted to perform their intended function. Column F represents the Maximum
altitude for which TAWS alerts may be provided in order to meet the nuisance alert criteria.
See appendix 3, section 4.0.
b. For each of the Descent rates specified below, recovery to level flight at or above 100 feet
terrain clearance is required.

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TSO-C151b
Appendix 4
APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM
PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C (continued)
c. Test Conditions for 1.6:
Assumed Pilot response time:
Assumed constant G pull-up:
Minimum Allowed Terrain Clearance:
Descent rates:

1.0 seconds minimum

1.0 g
100 feet AGL
500, 750, and 1000 fpm

Assumed Pilot Task for Column F: Level off at 250 feet above the terrain per
Appendix 4, Table 31 Required Obstacle Clearance (ROC).
NOTE 1: The actual values for the airplane altitude, distance and time from the
terrain cell when caution and warning alerts are posted and the minimum terrain
clearance altitude must be recorded.
NOTE 2: The values shown in Column F are appropriate for an airplane without
an Autopilot or Flight Director function, and are based upon 10 percent of the
vertical velocity that is appropriate to manual flight and small general aviation
airplane operations.
TABLE E
Approach Descent Alerting Criteria
A
VERT
SPEED
(FPM)

B
ALT LOST
WITH 1 SEC
PILOT
DELAY

C
ALT
REQD TO
L/O WITH
1 G PULLUP

D
TOTAL ALT
LOST DUE TO
RECOVERY
MANEUVER

500
750
1000

8
12
17

1
2
4

9
14
21

Page 8

E
MINIMUM
TAWS WARNING
ALERT HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
109
114
121

F
MAXIMUM
CAUTION
ALERT HEIGHT
(ABOVE
TERRAIN)
300
325
350

Appendix 4

TSO-C151b

APPENDIX 4. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION MINIMUM

PERFORMANCE STANDARD (MPS) FOR A TERRAIN AWARENESS AND
WARNING SYSTEM FOR CLASS C (continued)

1.7 Landing Flight Requirement. Applies as written.

2.0 through 2.2. FORWARD LOOKING TERRAIN AVOIDANCE IMMINENT IMPACT
TEST CONDITIONS. Apply using Table G for speed cases of 100 through 250 knots,
however change the incremental pull from 0.25g to 1.0g in Note 2.
3.0 and 3.1 PREMATURE DESCENT ALERT TEST CONDITIONS. Apply as written.
4.0 NUISANCE ALERT TEST CONDITIONS - GENERAL. Apply as written.
4.1 4000 FPM. Not applicable.
4.2 2000 FPM. It must be possible to descend at 2000 FPM and level off 500 feet above the
terrain using a normal level off procedure (leading the level off by 10 percent of the vertical
speed), without a caution or warning alert.
4.3 1000 FPM. It must be possible to descend at 1000 FPM in the Final Approach Segment and
level off at 250 feet using the normal level off procedure described in 4.2 above, without a
caution or warning alert.
5.0 NUISANCE TEST CONDITIONS FOR HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL FLIGHT
TECHNICAL ERRORS. Applicable as written.
5.1 Test Cases. Is applicable as written however, test cases are limited to locations 3, 6, 7, and
8 in Table I.
6.0 TEST CONDITIONS USING KNOWN ACCIDENT CASES. Paragraphs 6.0 through
6.3 are to be determined by the applicant using actual NTSB GA accidents. Since detailed data
is usually not available, reasonable constructed scenarios matching the actual known accident
data may be demonstrated. Pulls of up to 1.0g may be used instead of the 0.25g as specified in
6.2, computation and Recording.
7.0 CLASS C EQUIPMENT TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR EXCESSIVE DESCENT
RATE. Apply Class B as written.
8.0 CLASS C EQUIPMENT TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR NEGATIVE CLIMB RATE
OR ALTITUDE LOSS AFTER TAKEOFF. Apply Class B as written.
9.0 CLASS C EQUIPMENT TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ALTITUDE
CALLOUTS. Apply Class B as written.

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