Which technology is primarily used for navigation in modern aircraft?

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is the primary technology used for navigation in modern aircraft due to its accuracy, reliability, and global coverage. GPS allows pilots to determine their precise position anywhere in the world by using signals from a network of satellites. This technology provides real-time data, including latitude, longitude, altitude, and speed, which are essential for flight planning and execution.

Utilizing GPS significantly enhances situational awareness and aids in following airways, navigating through airspace, and conducting approaches and landings. Its ability to provide precise waypoints and routes minimizes the risk of navigation errors compared to traditional methods.

While chart plotting, beacons, transponders, and visual flight rules are important components of air navigation, they do not offer the same level of accuracy and comprehensive global reach that GPS provides. Chart plotting relies on visual interpretation of aeronautical charts, beacons serve localized areas, and transponders mainly function in surveillance rather than navigation. Visual flight rules are primarily used for navigation under visual conditions but do not provide the precise positional information that GPS does.