Radial

Radial Navigation Signal

A radial navigation signal is an electromagnetic signal that is transmitted from a VHF omnidirectional radio range (VOR) and is aligned with a single magnetic bearing from the facility. The radial signals are used to determine a pilot’s position in relation to the VOR, by calculating the angle between the orientation of the radial signal being received and the magnetic heading of the aircraft.

The VOR is equipped with several radial signals, each signal being aligned with a specific magnetic bearing from the facility, ranging from 001° to 360°. Pilots can select the desired radial signal on their navigational instruments to follow a specific course and maintain proper orientation. For example, if a pilot selects the 270° radial signal, then he/she will be following a course that is aligned with a magnetic bearing of 270° from the VOR facility.

Radial signals are widely used for navigation during flight and are an essential tool for pilots in maintaining proper orientation, especially during flight in adverse weather conditions or when flying over unfamiliar terrain.