Flight Operations
- Review Aerodynamics & Airplane Systems
- 1.1Explain the four forces which act on an airplane in flight
- 1.2Explain the angle of attack- Commercial Pilot-Aerodynamics and Performance
- 1.3Explain the basics of Aerodynamics
- 1.4Explain drag
- 1.5Explain thrust, stability, and center of gravity
- 1.6Explain weight and balance
- 1.7Demonstrate knowledge of aircraft components
- Pressure, Temperature & Density
- Weather
- 3.1Identify and explain the structure of the earth’s layers of the atmosphere, and become knowledgeable of the history of the study of meteorology
- 3.2Describe atmospheric conditions using appropriate weather terminology
- 3.3Demonstrate an understanding of frontal systems
- 3.4Demonstrate an understanding of wind speed, temperature, pressure & dew point
- 3.5Employ meteorological terminology and coding procedures
- 3.6Identify air masses and monitor daily weather phenomena
- 3.7Demonstrate an understanding of synoptic weather structure
- Weather Forecasting
- Weather Hazards
- Weather Tools
- IFR
- IFR
- IFR Navigation
IFR Navigation
Understanding the Airway System in Aircraft Navigation
Trade route.
The airway system is a crucial component of aircraft navigation, particularly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). This system consists of a network of predefined routes in the sky that aircraft follow, much like highways for cars on the ground. These routes are designed to ensure safe and efficient navigation, especially in conditions where visual references are not available.
There are different types of airways used in IFR navigation: Victor Airways, Jet Routes, and RNAV Routes.
Victor Airways
Victor Airways, also known as VOR airways, are the most common type of airway used for IFR navigation in the lower altitudes. These airways are based on VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR) navigation aids, which emit signals that aircraft can use to determine their bearing and distance from the VOR station. Victor Airways are typically used for flights at altitudes below 18,000 feet.
Jet Routes
Jet Routes are similar to Victor Airways but are used for high-altitude flights, typically above 24,000 feet. These routes are also based on VOR navigation aids, but they often incorporate Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) to provide more precise navigation information. Jet Routes are commonly used by commercial jet aircraft.
RNAV Routes
RNAV (Area Navigation) Routes are a newer type of airway that allows aircraft to fly on any desired flight path within the coverage of ground-based or space-based navigation aids. RNAV routes are not tied to specific VOR stations, which gives pilots more flexibility in planning their routes and can result in more direct and efficient flights.
To use these airways, pilots need to know how to read and interpret airway charts. These charts show the location of the airways, the navigation aids that define them, and other important information such as minimum altitudes, changeover points, and intersection locations.
Understanding the airway system is a fundamental part of IFR navigation. By following these predefined routes, pilots can ensure they are flying safely and efficiently, even when visual references are not available.