What is a VORTAC and what three services does it provide?

Answer

A VORTAC combines VOR and TACAN components at a single site and provides three services simultaneously: VOR azimuth, TACAN azimuth, and TACAN distance (DME). Both components are interlocked so pilots using VOR azimuth with TACAN distance can be assured both signals come from the same ground station.

AIM 1-1-6

Read the full regulation — AIM 1-1-6

1-1-6. VHF Omni -directional Range/Tactical Air Navigation (VORTAC)
a. A VORTAC is a facility consisting of two components, VOR and TACAN, which provides three individual
services: VOR azimuth, TACAN azimuth and TACAN distance (DME) at one site. Although consisting of more
than one component, incorporating more than one operating frequency, and using more than one antenna system,
a VORTAC is considered to be a unified navigational aid. Both components of a VORTAC are envisioned as
operating simultaneously and providing the three services at all times.
b. Transmitted signals of VOR and TACAN are each identified by three -letter code transmission and are
interlocked so that pilots using VOR azimuth with TACAN distance can be assured that both signals being
received are definitely from the same ground station. The frequency channels of the VOR and the TACAN at
each VORTAC facility are "paired" in accordance with a national plan to simplify airborne operation.

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