Plain English Meaning

A fixed point in space, defined by its position on the earth, that a pilot uses as a target to fly to or past. Strung together, waypoints form the route the aircraft follows.

Full Definition

A predefined geographical position, specified by latitude and longitude coordinates, used to define an RNAV (area navigation) route or the position of an aircraft along that route. Waypoints may be named (using a five-letter identifier such as KUBBS or BOSOX) or defined by reference to a navigation aid with a bearing and distance.

Context Anchor

Seen in area navigation flight plans, instrument procedures, cockpit displays, and route .