Air Navigation is one of the main subjects in the CPL DGCA syllabus / CPL exam syllabus DGCA / syllabus for CPL DGCA exam. It is part of the CPL exam subjects DGCA and plays a crucial role in the CPL exam pattern DGCA. This subject helps aspiring pilots understand how to plan and execute flights safely and accurately using charts instruments and by accounting for wind compass errors and other navigational factors.
Here are the major topics you’ll study under Air Navigation as per the cpl syllabus dgca / cpl exam syllabus dgca / exam syllabus for cpl syllabus:
Magnetism and Compasses
Charts
Dead Reckoning Navigation (DR)
In flight Navigation
Radio Navigation & Navigational Instruments
Basics of Navigation
The Earth: latitude longitude great circles rhumb lines
Time conversions: Local Mean Time Universal Time (UTC) Standard Time International Date Line
Distance units used in navigation (nautical miles statute miles kilometers etc.) and conversion among units
Principles of terrestrial magnetism magnetic variation and deviation
Magnetic dip and the effects of latitude on compass readings
Types of compasses: main standby remote reading serviceability errors and corrections
Map/chart projections: Mercator Lambert conformal conic transverse Mercator polar stereographic etc.
Reading charts: plotting positions interpreting meridians and parallels using scales showing relief etc.
Track heading (true magnetic compass grid) time airspeed (IAS CAS TAS) ground speed drift wind correction angles ETA
Navigational computations using charts or flight computer: time distance fuel etc.
Using fixes (visual or radio) in cruise climb descent phases revising drift ground speed ETA as actual conditions differ from planned.
Use of VOR ADF DME GNSS etc. for position fixing and navigation assistance.
Understanding errors coverage limitations and correct interpretation of instrument readings.
Good understanding of Air Navigation helps you in flight planning fuel estimation safety and complying with rules of the air (as required under cpl exam pattern dgca syllabus).
The DGCA exam syllabus for CPL expects you not only to know theory but also to solve numerical problems plan flights work with charts and real navigation scenarios.
Many aspirants find this subject demanding because it involves both theoretical concepts and mathematical application. Regular practice and clear understanding are essential.