Homing vs Tracking to a VOR

Homing to a VOR

Homing is the simplest way to fly towards a VOR. The pilot continually turns the aircraft to keep the Course Deviation Indicator (CDI) centered with a TO indication. This method does not account for wind drift, so the aircraft's path will curve towards the station, especially in crosswind conditions. As you get closer to the VOR, the CDI becomes more sensitive, requiring smaller corrections.

Tracking a VOR Radial

Tracking involves selecting the desired radial (inbound or outbound) on the OBS and maintaining a heading that keeps the CDI centered, but with wind correction applied. This means you fly a constant track over the ground, compensating for wind by adjusting your heading as needed. The TO/FROM indicator helps confirm your position relative to the station, and you use the deviation bar to guide left/right corrections. Tracking is essential for staying within airway corridors and for accurate approach procedures.

Practical Differences

• Homing: Simple, but inefficient in wind; leads to a curved ground track.
• Tracking: Requires wind correction, but results in a straight, precise path along the selected radial.

VOR Navigation Techniques

• Set the desired radial on the OBS (TO for inbound, FROM for outbound).
• Apply drift correction to maintain the radial.
• Use the CDI for left/right guidance, making small heading changes as you approach the station.
• Understand that the CDI becomes more sensitive closer to the VOR.

Exam Focus

The exam expects you to understand when to use homing versus tracking, how wind affects each, and how to interpret VOR indications correctly. You must also know the required accuracy for being established on a VOR track, especially during approaches (within half-full scale deflection).