The process of navigating an aircraft using computations regarding airspeed, course, heading, and time is known as?

Prepare for the Air Traffic Control (ATC) Basics Block 3 Test. Study with in-depth flashcards, hints, and explanations for each question. Ace your ATC exam!

The process of navigating an aircraft using computations regarding airspeed, course, heading, and time is known as dead reckoning. This method involves calculating the current position of an aircraft based on known variables, such as its previous position, speed, and expected flight path. It allows pilots to estimate their location without relying on visual references or external navigational aids. This technique is essential in scenarios where navigation instruments are unavailable or visibility is poor.

In contrast, pilotage involves navigating by reference to landmarks and visual cues on the ground. Visual navigation relies on the pilot's ability to see and interpret these references, which is not the case in dead reckoning. Instrument navigation, on the other hand, depends on cockpit instruments and electronic systems to determine position and navigate, rather than computations based solely on previously known values. Thus, the defining characteristic of dead reckoning is its reliance on calculations derived from an aircraft’s speed, heading, and time, making it the correct choice.

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