WAAS is an extremely accurate navigation system developed for civil aviation. Before WAAS, the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS) did not have the potential to provide horizontal and vertical navigation for approach operations for all users at all locations. With WAAS, this capability is a reality.

WAAS provides service for all classes of aircraft in all phases of flight — including en-route navigation, airport departures, and airport arrivals. This includes vertically-guided landing approaches in instrument meteorological conditions at all qualified locations throughout the NAS.