Which is a common navigation aid used in aviation?

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is one of the most widely used navigation aids in aviation today due to its high accuracy and reliability. GPS provides precise location information using satellites orbiting the Earth, allowing pilots to determine their position, speed, and direction of flight. It has transformed navigation by enabling pilots to navigate directly to waypoints or destinations without relying heavily on traditional navigation aids.

While compasses, VOR stations, and flight maps are also important tools in aviation navigation, each has its limitations compared to GPS. Compasses provide basic directional information but do not account for variations like magnetic declination. VOR stations offer a network of radio beacons for navigation, but they require a line of sight and may not be as precise in all conditions. Flight maps are crucial for visual navigation and situational awareness, but they depend on the pilot's ability to interpret chart data. GPS integrates these functionalities into one system, making it the most versatile and commonly used navigation aid in modern aviation.