Definition
The Morse code identifiers transmitted by ground-based navigation aids (such as VORs, NDBs, and ILS components) that allow a pilot to confirm the station is operating correctly and is the intended facility. Each NAVAID broadcasts a unique two- or three-letter Morse code signal at regular intervals, which the pilot listens to through the aircraft's audio panel after tuning the corresponding frequency.
Plain English
The Morse code beeps each ground navigation station sends out so pilots can check they have tuned the right station and that it is working.
Context Anchor
Seen in pilot weather reports, route descriptions, charts, and position reports when a pilot needs to identify a specific navigation reference.
Derivation
NAVAID is a contraction of 'navigation aid.' 'Ident' is short for 'identifier' or 'identification.' Together the term simply means the identifying signal of a navigation aid.
Why Pilots Care
Accurate use of NAVAID idents lets pilots give precise location information in weather reports without relying on GPS coordinates.
Grounding Statement
In a PIREP, the NAVAID ident helps pin the weather report to a known point instead of leaving the location vague.
Intuition Check
Do not read ident as the pilot’s identity or aircraft call sign. Here it means the identifier for a navigation reference.
Example Sentence 1
After tuning the VOR, the pilot listened for the NAVAID ident before using it for navigation.
Example Sentence 2
After tuning the VOR, the pilot listened for the ident to confirm the correct station was received before reporting turbulence.