What does an Inertial Navigation System (INS) provide for an aircraft?

An Inertial Navigation System (INS) is a crucial technology used in aviation for determining the position, orientation, and velocity of an aircraft. It functions by utilizing a series of accelerometers and gyroscopes to calculate the aircraft's movement over time. By continuously measuring the changes in speed and direction, the INS can provide highly accurate data regarding the aircraft's current position in three-dimensional space.

The ability of the INS to autonomously track the aircraft's position allows for precise navigation without reliance on external references, making it especially valuable in environments where GPS signals may be unreliable or unavailable. This high level of accuracy is essential for flight operations, particularly during flight phases such as takeoff, landing, and navigation through challenging airspace.

In contrast, pilot training is focused on developing skills rather than providing navigation data. Aid in manual navigation may involve traditional techniques, but does not encompass the advanced capabilities of an INS. While weather updates are essential for operational safety and planning, they are not part of the primary function of an inertial navigation system.