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NAVAID (Navigational Aid)
A ground-based or space-based facility that supports aircraft navigation, such as a VOR, NDB, DME, ILS, or the GPS satellite constellation. NAVAID outages published in NOTAMs can force a route, approach, or training-plan change even when weather looks fine.
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Learn more in Private Pilot License →Related Terms
- Night CurrencyThe recent flight experience required to carry passengers at night. Under 14 CFR 61.57(b), a pilot needs three takeoffs and three landings to a full stop within the preceding 90 days, accomplished during the period from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise.
- Non-Precision ApproachAn instrument approach procedure that provides lateral guidance to the runway but does not include an electronic glideslope for vertical guidance. Examples include localizer-only, VOR, and many RNAV (GPS) LNAV approaches; pilots descend to a minimum descent altitude (MDA) and must see the runway environment to continue.
- Nontowered AirportAn airport without an operating control tower where pilots self-announce and sequence using CTAF/UNICOM procedures. Nontowered operations still require traffic-pattern discipline and wake-turbulence awareness around larger arrivals and departures.
- NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions)A notice containing information concerning the establishment, condition, or change in any aeronautical facility, service, procedure, or hazard. Pilots are required to check NOTAMs during preflight planning.