Short Final: ‘Digital’ Navigation

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • During a 1980s Robinson R-22 training flight to Dulles, the pilot was given standard VOR and NDB navigation instructions by Air Traffic Control.
  • The pilot informed ATC that their helicopter lacked both VOR and NDB equipment, relying instead on "a compass, a VFR map, and a thumb."
  • Upon learning this, ATC successfully adapted by guiding the pilot using visual ground references like highways and a gas station.
  • The anecdote highlights how basic VFR navigation tools and flexible ATC communication can ensure successful flights, even without modern avionics.
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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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