It’s a tough IFR world for /U aircraft out there. ATC issues direct clearances assuming the pilot has an IFR-legal GPS. But there are a few tricks even without approved RNAV.
Direct to a fix with /U
Flying the system without an IFR GPS these days can be a frustrating experience. Youre plodding along the airways while you listen to more-equipped birds getting time-saving directs off-route.
Key Takeaways:
- Pilots of IFR aircraft without approved GPS (/U) can legally request a "vector towards [NAVAID/fix] and direct when able" from ATC to accept direct clearances.
- This FAA-affirmed method allows ATC to provide initial radar guidance, after which pilots can navigate to VORs when in range, or to fixes via approximate heading/dead reckoning.
- The technique does not apply to arbitrary points lacking official data (e.g., airports not co-located with VORs or non-published fixes), and portable GPS remains prohibited as a sole IFR navigation source.
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