Instrument Flying

RNP is a navigation system that provides a specified level of accuracy defined by a lateral area of confined airspace in which an RNP-certified aircraft operates. The continuing growth of aviation places increasing demands on airspace capacity and emphasizes the need for the best use of the available airspace. These factors, along with the accuracy […]

A flight management system (FMS) is not a navigation system in itself. Rather, it is a system that automates the tasks of managing the onboard navigation systems. FMS may perform other onboard management tasks, but this discussion is limited to its navigation function. FMS is an interface between flight crews and flightdeck systems. FMS can

Most navigation systems approved for en route and terminal operations under IFR, such as VOR, NDB, and GPS, may also be approved to conduct IAPs. The most common systems in use in the United States are the ILS, simplified directional facility (SDF), localizer-type directional aid (LDA), and microwave landing system (MLS). These systems operate independently

Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) The Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) is a constellation of satellites providing a high-frequency signal that contains time and distance that is picked up by a receiver thereby. [Figure 1] The receiver that picks up multiple signals from different satellites is able to triangulate its position from these satellites. Figure

Nondirectional Radio Beacon (NDB) The nondirectional radio beacon (NDB) is a ground-based radio transmitter that transmits radio energy in all directions. The ADF, when used with an NDB, determines the bearing from the aircraft to the transmitting station. The indicator may be mounted in a separate instrument in the aircraft panel. [Figure 1] The ADF

A radio wave is an electromagnetic (EM) wave with frequency characteristics that make it useful. The wave travels long distances through space (in or out of the atmosphere) without losing too much strength. An antenna is used to convert electric current into a radio wave so it can travel through space to the receiving antenna,