Intersection (aviation)

In aviation, an intersection is a virtual navigational fix that helps aircraft to maintain their flight plan. It is usually defined as the intersection (in the geometrical sense) of two VOR radials.

Intersections also play an important role in departure and approach procedures. All intersections have an alphabetical or alphanumeric designation. Near major airports, the intersection designation code typically consists of three letters followed by the runway number. Most other intersection designations consist of five-letter combinations chosen for their mnemonic value, since either air traffic control or the flight plan may require the pilot to recall the designation.