What are VOR airways established as in Class E airspace?

VOR airways, also known as Victor routes, are designed to create safe and efficient navigation paths for aircraft in Class E airspace. These airways are established as corridors that guide pilots along defined paths using radio navigation aids. The term "corridors" is fitting because it emphasizes the structured, linear nature of these routes, allowing for systematic traffic flow while minimizing the risk of collisions and assisting in overall air traffic management.

The establishment of VOR airways as corridors is particularly crucial in Class E airspace, where air traffic control may not always be in direct contact with all aircraft. By using these defined corridors, pilots can maintain orientation and navigate more effectively, especially in regions where visual references may be limited. This enhances safety and operational efficiency in the airspace environment.

The other terms - converging routes, zonal airways, and restricted areas - do not accurately capture the purpose or structure of VOR airways. Converging routes might imply intersections of paths that are not characteristic of the linear design of airways. Zonal airways could suggest broader areas without the precise navigation focus of airways. Restricted areas are designated sections of airspace where operations are limited due to security or safety considerations, which is unrelated to the navigation functions