What is terrain association primarily used for in navigation?

Terrain association is primarily used in navigation to enhance situational awareness and assist in course guidance by utilizing visual references from the surrounding landscape. This method allows navigators, whether in aircraft or on the ground, to identify their position relative to recognizable physical features, such as mountains, rivers, valleys, and buildings. By correlating these features to maps or charts, navigators can effectively determine their location and make more informed decisions about their route. This practice is especially valuable in areas where technology such as GPS may be limited or in conditions where visibility is reduced.

The use of surrounding terrain as guidance is critical for maintaining orientation during navigation, particularly in environments that may not have prominent navigational aids. This aids in ensuring safe travel by helping pilots and navigators to stay on course and anticipate any necessary course adjustments in response to changes in the landscape.