Definition
Flying a desired course directly toward an NDB (non-directional beacon) using the ADF (automatic direction finder), correcting for wind by establishing a heading that keeps the aircraft on the selected bearing to the station. The pilot adjusts heading so the relative bearing on the ADF indicator compensates for any drift, keeping the actual ground track aligned with the inbound course.
Plain English
Flying straight toward a ground radio beacon, adjusting your heading so the wind doesn't push you off the line you want to fly.
Context Anchor
Seen when using the ADF, the automatic direction finder, to navigate toward a ground radio beacon during instrument training.
Derivation
"Tracking" means following a path over the ground (from Old English meaning "to follow a trail"). "Inbound" simply means moving toward the station rather than away from it. Together: following a path toward the beacon.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents drift and ensures the aircraft reaches the station on the planned course, which is essential for accurate instrument navigation and safe approaches.
Analogy
It is like walking toward a landmark while a strong side wind pushes you. You may need to aim slightly into the wind to keep walking along the straight line you wanted.
Intuition Check
Do not read tracking inbound as simply “pointing the airplane toward the station.” In this context, it means maintaining the intended path toward the station, including any wind correction needed to stay on that path.
Example Sentence 1
After identifying the beacon, the pilot turned to intercept the 360 bearing and began tracking inbound to the NDB.
Example Sentence 2
While tracking inbound to the beacon the crew adjusted heading every few minutes to stay on the desired course.