Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

The allowable errors for an airborne VOR check are specifically outlined in FAA regulations, which state that the maximum acceptable error when checking a VOR from an airborne position is ±4 degrees. This means that if during the check, the aircraft’s indication of the VOR azimuth deviates more than 4 degrees from the intended radial, the VOR is considered out of tolerance and should not be used for navigation.

When performing an airborne VOR check, pilots will typically turn the aircraft to a known radial and observe the VOR indication. They can verify the accuracy of the VOR by cross-referencing with a VOR test facility or by comparing it to the expected value if they are within a certain range of a ground station.

Understanding the allowable error is crucial for instrument pilots, as using a VOR that is out of tolerance can lead to navigation errors and potentially jeopardize safety. By keeping the required error limits in mind, pilots ensure they use reliable instruments while flying under instrument flight rules (IFR).