What does DME stand for in aviation?

DME stands for Distance Measuring Equipment. This technology is crucial in aviation, as it provides pilots and air traffic controllers with real-time measurements of the distance between the aircraft and a ground station. The system operates using a transponder on the aircraft that communicates with a DME ground station, allowing for accurate distance calculation in nautical miles.

Understanding DME is essential for navigation, particularly in instrument flight and when approaching airports, as it aids in maintaining precise distance from specific waypoints along a flight path. This is vital for safe air traffic management and efficient routing, ensuring that aircraft can maintain safe distances from one another and adhere to flight instructions.