Definition
A ground-based radio facility that transmits a single, fixed VOR signal used to check the accuracy of an aircraft's VOR receiver. When tuned to a VOT, a correctly functioning receiver will indicate a 360-degree radial regardless of the aircraft's position relative to the facility, allowing the pilot to verify that the receiver's bearing indications are within allowable tolerance.
Plain English
A small radio station on the ground whose only job is to let you check whether your aircraft's VOR navigation receiver is reading correctly. You tune it in before flight and confirm the needle and indicator behave as expected.
Context Anchor
Pilots encounter VOT information during preflight or instrument-flight equipment checks, often using airport or FAA facility information that lists the VOT frequency and test instructions.
Derivation
VOR stands for VHF Omnidirectional Range. The added 'T' in VOT stands for Test. The name simply describes its job: a VOR-style signal used purely for testing the receiver, not for navigation.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures VOR receiver accuracy before IFR departures, preventing navigation errors in instrument conditions.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a VOT as a normal VOR station used to navigate along a route. A VOT is a known test signal used to check the aircraft’s receiver.
Example Sentence 1
Before the IFR flight, the pilot tuned the VOT frequency on the ramp and confirmed the receiver indicated a 360 radial within tolerance.
Example Sentence 2
After maintenance the avionics shop used the airport VOT to verify the repaired navigation equipment met required accuracy standards.