GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a system that helps an individual
determine where he is located as well as where other things are located. GPS has
become incredibly popular over the years with even more mobile devices
available. However, GPS in aviation has been around longer. As long ago as 1978
GPS was being experimented with and a satellite was sent into space to test the
technology. That has been almost 30 years ago and today GPS is in many people’s
cars! Nevertheless, aviation was one of the first industries to become involved
with GPS because location and speed are very important in the field of
aviation.
The United States Department of Defense handles GPS, but allows the public to
use it for free. The GPS in an airplane basically has a map of the route from
the original location to the destination. Information is programmed into the GPS
and it helps for autopilot and things of that nature. It also tells the pilot
where they are headed, how far away they are from the destination, as well as
the height of the plane. GPS is invaluable to pilots and it is very helpful.
One popular option is the Garmin aviation GPS. This GPS system is designed
specifically for the use in aircraft. Not all GPS systems will work in an
aircraft like they would in a car, so buying a specialized aircraft GPS is
important. An aviation headset is still important even with the use of the GPS
because you will need to communicate with the tower not to mention you will need
to protect your hearing.
Of course, GPS has been around since the ‘70s, but it has not been fully
operational in aircrafts that long. It was not until the mid 1990s that GPS
became fully functional with 24 satellites and aviation accepted the new
technology and put it to work. Since the mid 1990s the GPS system has become
incredibly important for pilots and all airplanes are now outfitted with this
device. It helps pilots stay on course and if something happens the system lets
them know how to get back on the right path. GPS isn’t just important for
pilots, but also for every day drivers. And, although GPS has been around for
quite some time it is just gaining popularity and understanding with the general
public.
