Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 19, 2024

Are you curious about flying a VOR approach? If you’re aiming to master instrument-rated flying, it’d be valuable to learn about VOR approaches. We’ll cover what a VOR approach is, how to fly it step-by-step, and even whether GPS can replace it in today’s navigation. Ready to make VOR approaches easy?

VOR 52

VOR Approach Descent Final Approach 52

Air Facts

MAY 7, 2025

The longest runways had front course and back course ILS (Instrument Landing Systems) and an on-field VOR that provided navigation and approach capabilities for aircraft on instrument flights. In the 70s, enroute navigation was usually on VOR Airways (Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Radio).

Weight-Shift-Control 52

Weight-Shift-Control VOR Runway Distance Measuring Equipment 52

Pilot Institute

FEBRUARY 15, 2025

Before RNAV, pilots had to rely on radios (NAVAIDs) and antennas on the ground such as VORs (Very High-Frequency Omnidirectional Range) and NDBs (Non-Directional Beacons). But these systems had some problems, like not being able to work over water, or if there was something in the way of the transmitter and the aircrafts receiver.

Approach 52

Approach Pilot Descent Airplanes 52

Plane and Pilot

SEPTEMBER 7, 2024

However, when it comes to the instrument panel, the picture is not so rosy. ADFs, marker beacons, and VOR receivers, each relying on a constantly shrinking population of land-based navaids, fill these dated flight decks. Many elderly singles and twins come equipped with a panel chock full of aviation history.

Cockpit 105

Cockpit Instrument Landing System Approach Pilot 105