What is pilotage in terms of aviation navigation?

Pilotage refers to navigation by visual reference to landmarks. This approach relies on the pilot's ability to see and identify ground features such as roads, rivers, mountains, and other recognizable landmarks from the aircraft. By comparing these features with a map or sectional chart, pilots can determine their position and navigate effectively to their destination.

Pilotage is particularly useful in areas where navigational aids such as VORs or GPS signals might not be available, or when a pilot prefers to navigate visually. It is considered an essential skill for pilots, especially in general aviation, where flying at lower altitudes allows for better visibility of features on the ground.

In contrast, options that reference navigation using only computers or radio signals rely on technology rather than visual references, which is not the primary focus of pilotage. Navigation by following a predetermined course might involve different methods, such as using electronic navigation systems, rather than the direct visual navigation that defines pilotage.