Ground Lesson 27 (15): VOR and NDB approaches

VOR and NDB approaches

• VOR approach procedures
• Usually easier to fly, but less precise
• MDA’s range from 500 feet - 1000 feet above TDZ(touchdown zone)
• Two types
• Off airport facility 
• The VOR is not placed at the airport
• On airport facility
• The VOR is placed at the airport
  
  
• VOR/DME approach
• Do you need DME equipment if the approach titles VOR/DME
• Yes, otherwise it would say “OR”
  
  
• Can you use GPS for DME
• Yes, AIM 1-2-3 allows this
  
  
• Some VOR approaches still provide DME information, but DME is not required (VOR)
  
  
• NDB approach procedures
• Similar to a VOR approach 
• Accuracy depends on your skill using ADF navigation
  
  
• Radar vectors to the approach
• It is pretty common to get vectors to final 
• Better for both you and the controller 
• Twist OBS to final approach course 
• Only do a procedure turn if ATC clears you to do it
  
  
• VDP - visual descent point 
• A point where you can begin a normal descent from the MDA to the runway, if you have visual req.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  .