FAA Ground School Practice Test

In terms of airport operations, a "TO" indication on navigation aids signifies what?

1. A direct approach towards the navigation aid

2. A direct departure from the navigation aid

3. An intermediate waypoint to navigate around

4. A requirement to circle before landing

The correct answer is: A direct approach towards the navigation aid

The "TO" indication on navigation aids, such as VORs or GPS systems, signifies a direct departure from the navigation aid. When an aircraft is navigating to a specific point, a "TO" indication means that the course is set directly from the navigation aid to the intended waypoint or destination. Pilots use this information to establish their flight path and ensure they are heading in the correct direction away from the point they are currently navigating from. In contrast, other options do not accurately represent the function of the "TO" indication. A direct approach to the navigation aid would typically show a "FROM" indication, denoting that the aircraft is approaching the aid itself. Intermediate waypoints or circling before landing are not directly related to the meaning of "TO" in navigation systems. Therefore, the "TO" indication specifically aids pilots in understanding their trajectory as they navigate away from a specific navigation reference point.