VFR Navigation
Seeing is Believing
The art of VFR navigation relies on one basic principle: seeing the ground from the air and using it as a reference to stay on course. When weather permits flying by visual reference, pilots can navigate the old-fashioned way – by looking out the window.
Within this section, members discuss the various visual techniques that allow pilots to determine their location and plot a safe path through the sky. These include:
- Pilotage – Navigating from one visual checkpoint to the next, often using landmarks, roads, and railroad lines as references. Members share their favorite visual checkpoints they use for pilotage flying.
- Dead Reckoning – Determining position by noting a starting point and applying estimated speed, time, and direction of travel. Members discuss techniques to improve the accuracy of dead reckoning navigation.
- Map Reading – Interpreting aeronautical charts to identify visual references and plan routes while on the ground. Members offer tips for reading sectional charts and plotting visual flight rules (VFR) courses.
- Position Fixes – Determining location using a combination of visual checkpoints, dead reckoning, and pilotage. Members describe techniques for confirming or correcting their position while airborne.
By sharing techniques that have guided pilots since the dawn of aviation, this section aims to convey the simplicity, self-reliance and connection to the natural world that VFR navigation provides.
While modern electronic Navigation systems have made flying easier and safer, the ability to “navigate by eye” remains an essential skill – and a source of joy – for any pilot. The pure wonder of seeing the landscape unfold from above still inspire us to take to the skies.
