Short Final: ‘Digital’ Navigation

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A student pilot flying an R-22 helicopter to Dulles in the 1980s was directed by ATC using VOR and NDB navigation, which his aircraft lacked.
  • When asked what navigational tools he possessed, the pilot humorously replied, "a compass, a VFR map, and a thumb."
  • ATC adapted by providing visual ground reference directions using highways and a gas station, enabling the pilot to complete the flight successfully.
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From AVweb reader Erik Eriksson

Rounding out my 1980s helicopter training in a Robinson R-22 in Maryland, my instructor upped the game by sending me on one final cross-country flight, including a landing at Dulles International.

As I got close to the airport and Potomac Approach established my position, the following conversation ensued:
Approach: Maintain current heading, intercept and follow radial XXX AML VOR.
Me: Negative VOR, Sir.
Approach: In that case maintain current heading, intercept and follow radial XXX Georgetown NDB.
Me: Negative NDB, Sir.
Approach: WHAT DO YOU HAVE THEN?
Me: I have a compass, a VFR map, and a thumb, Sir.

Approach directed me to follow XYZ highways and, upon passing a gas station, to call in from the right side of the highway. It all worked out as planned.

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