What information can a GPS receiver provide a pilot?

A GPS receiver is primarily designed to assist pilots with navigation by providing real-time positional information. One of the key features of many GPS systems in aircraft is their ability to identify the nearest airports, which includes not only their locations but also related information such as runway configurations and taxiway layouts. This can be particularly useful in unfamiliar airspace or emergency situations, allowing pilots to make informed decisions regarding landing options and available services.

While some advanced avionics may provide additional features such as flight logs, maintenance reminders, or even fuel consumption estimates, these are not universally standard across all GPS units. Weather updates, too, generally come from separate systems or sources and are not typically part of a basic GPS receiver's functionality. Hence, the primary role of the GPS in this context is to enhance navigation capabilities, making the ability to locate nearby airports and view their taxiway maps a critical safety feature for pilots.