Definition
A specific ground track defined by a VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) radial or a localizer signal, which the pilot follows by keeping the course deviation indicator centered. A VOR course is any selected radial radiating from a VOR ground station, while a LOC course is the narrow, fixed final-approach path transmitted by a localizer aligned with the runway centerline.
Plain English
An invisible line in the sky, broadcast by a ground radio station, that the pilot tracks by keeping a needle centered on the cockpit display. A VOR sends out many of these lines in all directions, and the pilot picks one to fly. A localizer sends out just one, lined up with the runway, used during landing approaches.
Context Anchor
Seen on navigation displays, GPS navigator pages, and instrument approach setup when the selected navigation source is VOR or localizer rather than GPS.
Derivation
VOR stands for VHF Omnidirectional Range -- a station that transmits course information in every direction (omni = all). LOC is short for localizer, from Latin localis, meaning 'of a place' -- in this case, the place is the runway, because the localizer locates the aircraft laterally on the approach path.
Why Pilots Care
Provides precise lateral guidance needed for accurate tracking and safe instrument approaches in low visibility.
Intuition Check
Course does not mean a class or lesson here. It means the selected path or line of travel the airplane is meant to follow.
Example Sentence 1
After crossing the fix, the pilot intercepted the inbound VOR course and tracked it toward the next waypoint.
Example Sentence 2
Maintaining the VOR/LOC course on the CDI kept the aircraft aligned with the final approach segment.