What does The Navigation Computer cover?
The mechanical navigation computer solves the everyday navigation maths: speed-distance-time, fuel, conversions, true airspeed and the wind triangle. Fluency with it removes most of the time pressure in General Navigation and Flight Planning.
What this subject covers
- Speed, distance and time on the circular slide rule
- Fuel and consumption calculations
- Conversions (units, temperature, altitude)
- True airspeed and the wind side
Study tip
Practise until the computer is automatic — in the exam, slow computer work is the most common reason candidates run out of time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the navigation computer used for?
Speed-distance-time, fuel, unit conversions, true airspeed and wind-triangle solutions — the routine maths of navigation.
Do I still need it with modern avionics?
For the EASA theory exams, yes — fluency with the manual computer is assumed and directly tested.