What is Radar Vectoring similar to

[NewWings]

Could you someone please tell me what is Radar Vectoring similar to. I have read the AIM. and am still confusing. Would someone please shine somelight for me. thankss

 

[cessna_driver2]

Radar vectoring is where ATC uses thier radar to vector you (ie give you heading changes) to your Destination

For example, giving you heading changes for intercepting an instrument approach. Or moving you out of the way of another aircraft.

It's basically ATC telling you where they want you to go.

 

[toneal]

The way I understand it is if I am flying VFR and make a call to approach for flight following and I get it, this does not mean that the controllers provide vectors , if he is too busy he will tell you that he is unable to provide the service.

As far as IFR... I would not be much help to you right now. Im still working on VFR stuff.

By the way, my solo XC's were great and both fort worth and waco controllers were more than helpful when I got on with flight following. I forgot to set my DG before takeoff on one leg and of course this thing pregressed quite a bit. I flew straight and level to get the compass heading and put in on the DG. Right after I did this the controller gave me a vector to Waco airport and that was really helpful. Just remember that as PIC you are still responsible for keeping your eyes glued outside even though you have a second set on a radar scope.

 

[bobbysamd]

Vectoring

It's basically ATC telling you where they want you to go.

And, I would add, how to go there. ATC gives you heading changes with the objective of placing you at your (or its) destination.

Sort of like street directions received from a passenger when you're driving.

 

[Timebuilder]

Everyone has seen a military drill instructor (DI) marching next to a platoon of recruits. By using verbal commands, he can direct the speed, direction, and even the "style" of the marching soldiers. He can do this because he can see the soldiers, and can choose the moment that he will call for a change in their direction of travel. He can see how effective his commands have been, and can make corrections as necessary, by issuing new commands.

The controller can see you on his radar screen. He knows where the VOR's, intersections, airports, etc are located, and can direct you by naming a magnetic heading for you to take up. Of course, he can also see the enhanced returns (radar echos) of the other aircaft on his screen, too. If he is providing separation to the IFR aircraft, he may ask you, if in radio contact, to make a turn in order to provide that IFR separation to the IFR aircraft.

It's as if the controller is "steering" your aircraft by remote control.