Aircraft navigation has come a long way from the early days when the only form of navigation was for a pilot to stick his head out the window and look around. Navigation sensors, such as aircraft GPS, provide more precision than any technology that has come before it. Originally designed for military use, GPS technology now plays a big role in civilian society as well.

Aviation GPS development continues, especially within the Department of Defense. Navigation sensors work off of satellites in space. The accuracy of GPS continues to improve with aviation GPS software that improves data processing methods and the increase in satellites. Buildings blocking signals or atmospheric disturbances that jam the signal are two of GPS' weaknesses.

1. Aircraft GPS continues to improve with better maps and receivers that receive signals from satellites.

2. Air navigation requires different sensors for depending on whether you use in the air or on the ground.

3. Aviation GPS works with navigation sensors combined with integration technology.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Explore navigation sensors designed for use in a private plane

Pilots who fly for personal pleasure or operate an aviation business benefit from aviation technology. Portable GPS aviation systems are increasingly popular.

I recommend: Sky Geek sells several kinds of hand-held and portable GPS aviation systems that work in specific geographical areas. TGH Aviation, a FAA and EASA certified company, sells numerous types of aviation equipment including a Garmin GPS at discount prices.

Enter the global world of air navigation

Although the GPS system in the US gets widely used, other nations take advantage of the technology. For pilots who work on an international flight route, consider a system with compatibility in all geographical areas.

I recommend: NovAtel develops and supplies aviation GPS systems to navigate throughout the world. It also developed a hybrid GPS system that works in areas where GPS alone can't function. Northrop Grumman has developed a GPS system that uses interference resistance, works at all stages of aviation navigation and costs less to install than other systems. Several companies use it for commercial flight navigation.

Take advantage of aviation GPS software

Airplane GPS for non-commercial use continues to improve. Hand-held devices get smaller but have greater precision. Companies developing GPS update programs and devices on a regular basis.

I recommend: Approach Systems makes GPS software for pilots with features like terrain and conflicts, configurable maps and obstacles warnings. Flying Mart has updated its AeroPalm GPS system, a hand-held navigational device, with improved maps.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Look for GPS software that allows you to update the product or upgrade the program as airplane GPS improves.
• •  Some planes offer GPS systems installed into the flight controls.