Long before GPS was available for aircraft navigation, VOR stations guided aviators around the world. Although this technology is aging and many VORs are being decommissioned, VORs still play an important role in aviation.
People Also Ask
When a VOR is decommissioned, it is replaced with a GPS-based intersection and GPS-based airways. Sometimes the DME is retained even if the VOR is removed.
Yes, you can shoot a VOR approach with GPS only as long as the title of the approach is titled, VOR/GPS. To count the approach as a VOR approach on an FAA flight test will require that the VOR be tuned to the appropriate station and identified.
If there is any question of weather, you can (and should) retain your IFR clearance until on the ground and then cancel. However, there may be good reasons to cancel depending upon circumstances. For example somebody may be following you and cannot be cleared for the approach until you cancel your IFR clearance.
Why Do Pilots Prefer IFR Over VFR? IFR provides pilots with greater flexibility when it comes to controlled airspace, weather conditions, and career opportunities.
This brings us to IFR (instrument flight rule) pilots. IFR flying is astronomically more challenging than VFR flying, but those pilots who achieve this distinction are invariably more equipped to fly IFR and VFR. Aviating under IFR, a pilot is authorized to fly into clouds in what is called zero visibility.