Navigation Flashcards
What is a VOR?
VOR – Very High Omni-directional Range
Used for aircraft navigation by providing azimuth information.
What is a NDB?
NDB – Non directional beacon
A type of radio transmitter that broadcasts signals in all directions.
What is a TACAN?
TACAN – Tactical Air Navigation
A military version of a VOR that uses UHF frequencies.
What information can a pilot gain from a VORTAC?
Location of the aircraft with reference to the station (Course Azimuth) and distance from the station (DME)
VORTAC combines VOR and TACAN functionalities.
What are VORs, VORTACs, and DME limited to?
Line of sight
This means their effective range is dependent on the curvature of the Earth and altitude.
How many radials do VORs emit?
360 degrees in every direction
Each radial represents a specific magnetic course.
What are the service volumes for VORs?
T – Terminal – 25NM, L - Low – 40NM, H - High – 130NM, MON – Minimum Operating Network, provides reception within 100NM at 5,000 ft AGL
These volumes determine how far a VOR can provide reliable guidance.
If a pilot is navigating purely via VORs, what is the furthest they may be apart and still maintain reception?
260 NM (the max distance between 2 high-level VORs)
This distance is critical for long-distance navigation.
What is DME?
DME – Distance Measuring Equipment
Provides the distance from the station to the aircraft.
What type of navigational equipment is required for oceanic travel?
INS and GPS
These systems ensure accurate navigation over vast ocean areas.
What is INS?
INS – Inertial Navigation System
A self-contained navigation system using gyroscopes and accelerometers.
What is IRS?
IRS – Inertial Reference System
Uses gyroscopes, accelerometers, and electronics for precise navigation information.
What is IRU?
IRU – Inertial Reference Unit
A computer that integrates IRS outputs for flight management systems.
What is GPS?
GPS – Global Position System
Uses signals from approximately 30 satellites to provide navigation information.
What is FMS?
FMS – Flight management system
Provides the pilot with navigation, performance information, and weight and balance.
What is the relationship between EFIS, FMS, and RNAV?
EFIS displays flight information, FMS acts as the aircraft’s brain, and RNAV includes LNAV and VNAV
Together, they enhance flight management and navigation accuracy.
What are NAT Tracks?
North Atlantic Tracks
Air traffic control establishes new tracks twice daily over the North Atlantic based on prevailing jet stream winds.
Where can FAA preferred routes be found?
AFD – Airport Facility Directory, aka ‘Chart Supplement’
This resource provides important navigation information for pilots.
How often are approach plates and high enroute charts published?
Electronically, every 28 days (4 weeks) and physically every 56 days (8 weeks)
Regular updates ensure pilots have the latest information.
What is RVSM?
Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM)
Allows for 1000 feet separation between aircraft flying between FL290 and FL410.
What is the difference between Class I and Class II Navigation?
Class I – Ground based (e.g., VORs, VORTACs, NDBs); Class II – Non-ground (or space) based (e.g., IRS, GPS)
This distinction is important for understanding navigation systems.
