Which signal type is characteristic of NDB navigation?

NDB navigation, which stands for Non-Directional Beacon navigation, is characterized by the signal type that is non-directional. This means that the signal emitted by an NDB is transmitted in all directions equally, allowing an aircraft equipped with a radio to receive the signal from any angle. This non-directionality enables pilots to determine their bearing relative to the NDB, solely based on the direction indicated on their navigation equipment, typically a ADF (Automatic Direction Finder).

In terms of practical application, when an aircraft receives the NDB signal, the pilot can use the ADF needle to determine the direction to the beacon, thus facilitating navigation without needing to rely on any specific incoming direction of the signal. This is crucial for flight operations, especially in areas where other navigational aids may not be available or are limited.

Other signal types such as directional, automatic, or simulated do not apply here. Directional signals, for instance, are those that transmit information in a specific direction, which conflicts with the non-directional nature of NDB signals. Automatic signals, while used in other contexts, do not describe the fundamental characteristic of NDBs. Lastly, simulated signals are not relevant as they imply that the signal is not an actual navigational aid but