We Still Need NAVAIDs

Elaine Kauh

Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at 08:11 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Modern IFR flight, especially in older aircraft, still relies heavily on traditional VOR navigation and approaches, requiring pilots to be proficient in managing classic routes and understanding their nuances.
Thorough pre-flight planning is essential for IFR flights, encompassing detailed analysis of approach procedures, circling minimums, runway suitability, and considering alternative options based on weather and aircraft capabilities.
Pilots must adhere to IFR regulations, such as performing mandatory VOR receiver checks, and be prepared to adapt to equipment limitations (e.g., lack of DME) by utilizing traditional methods like timing for approach segments.

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While even the classic aircraft typically have at least a portable GPS on board, going IFR can mean relying on something like a localizer or (gasp) a VOR to get to a runway. If it’s been a while since using these, don’t forget that there’s more to know than tuning, twisting, and following the needle. You’ll need to manage stuff like Victor airways (got it), VOR checks (fuzzy on those) and just possibly, timed approaches to deal with (oh, great). And just like any flight, getting organized in advance is key.

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