What is a vortac?

A VORTAC is a type of navigational aid used in aviation. It combines two separate navigational aids into one system: VOR (VHF Omni Range) and TACAN (Tactical Air Navigation). VOR provides azimuth information (direction), while TACAN provides both azimuth and distance information.

VORTACs are typically located at airports or other key locations, and consist of a VOR station and a TACAN station that share the same location and combine their signals into one. Pilots can use VORTACs to determine their position and navigate along airways using radio signals.

VORTACs are used by both civilian and military aircraft for navigation purposes. They are an important tool for pilots, especially in areas where there may be limited ground-based navigation aids or when GPS signals are unreliable or unavailable.