What does Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) measure?

Study for the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What does Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) measure?

Explanation:
Distance Measuring Equipment shows how far you are from a ground station in nautical miles. It works by exchanging timing signals between the aircraft’s DME and the ground transmitter, converting that time delay into a distance readout. The value is a slant-range distance—the straight-line distance to the station—often used with VOR/DME navigation. It does not provide altitude, groundspeed, or a directional bearing. Altitude is read from altimeters, groundspeed from speed instruments or GPS, and bearing from VOR/ADF equipment.

Distance Measuring Equipment shows how far you are from a ground station in nautical miles. It works by exchanging timing signals between the aircraft’s DME and the ground transmitter, converting that time delay into a distance readout. The value is a slant-range distance—the straight-line distance to the station—often used with VOR/DME navigation. It does not provide altitude, groundspeed, or a directional bearing. Altitude is read from altimeters, groundspeed from speed instruments or GPS, and bearing from VOR/ADF equipment.

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