Which statement best differentiates DME/VOR navigation from RNAV navigation?

Which statement best differentiates DME/VOR navigation from RNAV navigation?

• A. RNAV uses ground-based stations for range and bearing; DME/VOR uses GNSS with onboard navigation databases for direct routing.
• B. DME/VOR uses onboard navigation databases; RNAV uses GNSS with onboard navigation databases for direct routing.
• C. DME/VOR uses ground stations for range and bearing; RNAV uses GNSS with onboard navigation databases for direct routing.
• D. DME/VOR provides direct routing; RNAV relies on radio beacons.

Answer: (C)

The difference lies in where the navigation guidance comes from and how routes are formed. DME and VOR are ground-based aids: a VOR gives a bearing to or from the station, and DME provides distance. Together they let you determine position relative to fixed ground stations and fly along predefined airways that connect those stations. RNAV, on the other hand, uses GNSS (satellite signals) to know your precise position and relies on onboard navigation databases that store waypoint coordinates, enabling you to plan and fly direct routes from one waypoint to another rather than being tied to ground-based beacons. This is why the statement that DME/VOR uses ground stations for range and bearing while RNAV uses GNSS with onboard navigation databases for direct routing best captures the difference.

The difference lies in where the navigation guidance comes from and how routes are formed. DME and VOR are ground-based aids: a VOR gives a bearing to or from the station, and DME provides distance. Together they let you determine position relative to fixed ground stations and fly along predefined airways that connect those stations. RNAV, on the other hand, uses GNSS (satellite signals) to know your precise position and relies on onboard navigation databases that store waypoint coordinates, enabling you to plan and fly direct routes from one waypoint to another rather than being tied to ground-based beacons. This is why the statement that DME/VOR uses ground stations for range and bearing while RNAV uses GNSS with onboard navigation databases for direct routing best captures the difference.