Which option correctly defines a waypoint as used in flight planning?

• A. A predetermined geographical position used for routes and approaches, defined relative to a VORTAC or by lat/long
• B. A fixed point where runways intersect on the airfield
• C. A temporary airspace coordinate used only for diversions
• D. A symbol on the map indicating weather

Answer: (A)

Waypoints are precise geographic positions used to define a flight route, serving as reference points for navigation from one fix to another. They enable routing in both traditional navigation and modern RNAV/GPS systems because they can be fixed by coordinates (latitude/longitude) or by the intersection of radials from navaids like VORTACs. This makes them flexible and independent of a single ground-based navaid, letting pilots plan and fly complex paths accurately.

The other ideas describe different things not used as standard navigation fixes: a fixed point where runways intersect is an on-field geometry point, not a typical en-route waypoint; a weather symbol conveys conditions, not navigation references; and a temporary coordinate for diversions isn’t how standard waypoints are defined or used in normal flight planning.