Navigation Aids (AIR)

Automatic Direction Finder (ADF)

A low or medium frequency radio beacon transmits non-directional signals whereby the pilot of an aircraft properly equipped can determine bearings and "home in" on the station. The frequency range for NDBs is between 190 and 1750 kHz Signals follow the curvature of the earth, so they can be received at much greater distances at lower altitudes, a major advantage over VOR. Operates by using two types of antennas, the LOOP and SENSE antenna.

Advantages and Limitations

Long range. Can use medium frequency ground station. Ideal navigation aid for small aircrafts Light weight and low power. Mountain or Cliffs Shorelines Electrical storm Bank Error

VHF Omni-directional Range (VOR)

VORs operate within the 108.0 to 117.95 MHz frequency band. VORs broadcast a VHF radio composite signal including the station's morse code identifier, and data that allows the airborne receiving equipment to derive the magnetic bearing from the station to the aircraft

Advantages and Disadvantages

Great Accuracy Signal Provides To/From bearing to the beacon. Free from precipitation static and annoying interference by other weather conditions. Most expensive to build and maintain Needs extensive networks due to lack of range

Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN)

It operates in the frequency band 960-1215 MHz. Navigation system used by military aircraft. Capable of showing the azimuth representation and the distance of enemy planes Military version of VOR/DME systems Increase by 9 folds in terms of accuracy than VOR Same Specifications as Civil DME

Distance Measuring Equipment (DME)

Paired pulses at a specific spacing are sent out from the aircraft (this is the interrogation) and are received at the ground station.

The time required for the round trip of this signal exchange is measured in the airborne DME unit and is translated into distance (nautical miles) from the aircraft to the ground station.

Instrument Landing System (ILS)

Guidance information: localizer, glide slope; Range information: marker beacon, DME; Visual information: approach lights, touchdown and centerline lights, runway lights

Microwave Landing System (MLS)

The MLS provides precision navigation guidance for exact alignment and descent of aircraft on approach to a runway. Capabilities Approach Azimuth Back Azimuth Approach elevation Range Data communication

Air Traffic control

TCAS
a computerized avionics device which is designed to reduce the danger of mid-air collisions between aircraft. It monitors the airspace around an aircraft, independent of air traffic control. warns pilots of the presence of other aircraft which may present a threat of midair collision.