Which of the following statements is true regarding the distance measured by DME?

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 statement that DME (Distance Measuring Equipment) measures distance in nautical miles is correct because DME is specifically designed to provide distance information to pilots in nautical miles, which is the standard unit for air navigation. Nautical miles take into account the curvature of the Earth, making them particularly relevant for aircraft flying over large distances and at different altitudes.

DME operates by calculating the distance based on the time it takes for radio signals to travel to and from a ground-based DME station. This system is used extensively in aviation and is compatible with existing navigation systems that rely on nautical miles, which helps maintain consistency and accuracy in navigation procedures.

The other statements do not correctly reflect how DME functions: it’s capable of measuring in both high altitude and low altitude situations, it does not measure in kilometers exclusively, and it provides slant range distance rather than strictly horizontal distance. Understanding that DME measures in nautical miles helps pilots and air traffic controllers utilize this tool effectively in navigation and flight planning.

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