What is it?

Planning and Flying a cross country trip by sole use of visual waypoints.

Can you describe it in more detail?

Precision Navigation or "Nav" involves both accurate flight planning and the use of pilotage. First, either the pilot or observer in the aircraft will complete a flight plan starting at an airport, flying over and between 3 to 5 latitude/longitude checkpoints, and to a "finish gate" (generally over the original airport). Whomever is doing the planning typically has a half hour to calculate the time enroute, and the fuel burn for the entire flight. Once the flight launches the crew must use only pilotage (no electronic navigation aids) to guide them on their pre-selected course. At the end of the flight the data from the onboard GPS receiver that has logged the aircrafts flight path is compared with the planned route.

How is NAV scored?

At the end of the flight the data from the onboard GPS receiver that has logged the aircrafts flight path is compared with the planned route for the flight. The crew with the lowest score is announced as the winner. For the official NIFA testing and event rules please visit NIFA's website.

How do I become a part of NAV?

In order to be eligible you must be a member of the Eagles Flight Team. Once you are a member you must be a active member on the team for at least two semesters in-order to be eligible.

How do I become a part of the Eagles Flight Team?

Check out our Prospective Members section to find out more information about joining.