What is an advantage of Nondirectional Beacons (NDB) compared to VOR?

Nondirectional Beacons (NDBs) provide the advantage of a greater range and do not require a line-of-sight signal path, unlike VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR) systems. The transmission of NDBs operates in the medium frequency band, allowing them to reflect off the ionosphere, particularly at nighttime, which can extend their coverage over significant distances. This characteristic means that pilots can receive NDB signals from further away and in various terrains, making them especially useful in areas where VORs may not achieve reliable coverage due to their reliance on line of sight propagation.

The absence of line of sight means that NDBs can be used in more diverse geographical situations, such as flying over mountains or in valleys where other navigation aids may experience signal obstruction. While VORs generally provide more precise guidance, the NDB's ability to work under a broader range of conditions is a key benefit, particularly in regions where maintaining a visual line to a ground station may not be feasible.