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Test Question: VOT checks

Asked by: 28960 views Instrument Rating

Having never used a VOR ground check, I am confused by explanations I've read. Can you help me with a simple method of solving these questions? A typical question will give a reference to a VOT in the A/FD, and then offer choices of TO/FROM, TO/TO, etcetera with both radials within the prescribed 4 degrees.  Thanks!

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  1. Mark Kolber on Dec 29, 2013

    You are asking two questions: a VOT check and VOR ground check are two different things.

    A VOR ground checkpoint is a marked location at an airport where you will have an unobstructed read of a specific radial of a nearby VOR (see AIM 2-3-6.b. and related Figure 2-3-20 for a description of the checkpoint location). There is a table in the back of the AFD that lists the various ground checkpoints and what radial you will be on. You taxi to the ground checkpoint and tune to the frequency specified in the Airport Facility Directory. Tune the VOR to the radial (Degrees-From) specified in the Airport Facility Directory. The CDI must be within ±4° of the specified radial. As with any other VOR, you can look for either a “To” or “From” indication (I’m assuming you don’t need a refresher on the basics of whether you are “To” or “From” a VOR station).

    A VOT is something different. It is a ground station located at an airport that only broadcasts one radial – the 360° radial. The frequency is listed in the ADF table in the back and also in the AFD entry for the airport where there is one (not all airport have them – far from it). From anywhere on the airport you can receive the signal, you tune in the station and set the OBS to either 180 (for a “To” indication) or 360 (with a “From” indication) to look for your required ±4° spread

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