Navigational aids on-board the Concorde

The differences of navigational instrumentation on the Concorde from subsonic aircraft due to transonic and supersonic flight regimes are described. Speed classes at different heights are defined for optimal flight operations, with each minute of error from the most direct route causing an extra 100 kg of fuel to be consumed. The Concorde is equipped with an inertial navigation system (INS), automatic direction finder, distance measuring equipment, VOR, and a ground warning system. The INS gathers altitude information, guidance and navigation data, and coupled compass stabilization information with reference to the magnetic pole. The Air Data Computer gathers aerodynamic and meteorological information, including altitude and vertical airspeed, from sensors mounted on the nose, and further guidance is aided by radio compass readings (Automatic Directional Finder) and two systems of radio altimetry.