Definition
A radar-assisted approach used when a pilot has lost the heading indicator and turn coordinator (or other gyroscopic instruments). The controller issues turn instructions as 'turn left' or 'turn right' and 'stop turn,' rather than headings, guiding the aircraft to the final approach course using radar.
Plain English
An approach where ATC talks the pilot through turns by saying when to start and stop turning, instead of giving compass headings. It is used when the instruments that show heading and turn rate have failed.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument flying, emergency assistance, accident reports, and air traffic control communications when an aircraft has lost reliable heading information.
Derivation
No gyro' means the pilot's gyroscopic instruments are unavailable or unreliable. 'Vector' comes from Latin 'vehere' (to carry) and in ATC use means a heading assigned by the controller to guide the aircraft. Together: the controller carries the aircraft to the approach without relying on the pilot's gyros.
Why Pilots Care
Allows continued safe flight and landing when primary heading instruments fail or builds proficiency in partial panel operations.
Intuition Check
“Vector” does not mean a math problem here; it means controller guidance for where to fly. “No gyro” does not mean flying with no instruments at all; it means the controller is not relying on the pilot’s heading indicator.
Example Sentence 1
After the vacuum pump failed in the clouds, the pilot declared an emergency and requested a no gyro vector approach into the nearest airport.
Example Sentence 2
Practicing a no gyro vector approach prepares pilots for instrument failures.