Definition
Specific, named geographic points used in instrument flight to define routes, procedures, and reporting locations. A navigation fix is identified by precise coordinates and is established either by ground-based navigation aids (such as a VOR radial and DME distance), by the intersection of bearings, or by latitude/longitude coordinates loaded into an area navigation (RNAV) database.
Plain English
Named points in the sky that pilots and controllers use as reference locations. Each fix has a fixed position, so when a chart or clearance refers to it, everyone knows exactly where it is.
Context Anchor
Seen in GPS and flight management system databases, instrument procedures, route planning, and cockpit navigation displays.
Derivation
Fix' comes from the Latin 'figere,' meaning 'to fasten' or 'to make firm.' A navigation fix is a position that has been 'fastened down' — a known, unchanging point you can navigate to or from.
Why Pilots Care
These points define the exact path an aircraft must follow on instrument procedures, ensuring accurate navigation, altitude compliance, and separation from terrain or traffic.
Intuition Check
A navigation fix is not a repair. In aviation, a fix is a known position used to locate the aircraft or guide it along a route.
Example Sentence 1
ATC cleared the flight direct to the next navigation fix on the arrival procedure.
Example Sentence 2
During the arrival, ATC cleared the aircraft direct to the navigation fix named BRUNO.