How does geography influence navigation methods?

Geography significantly impacts navigation methods primarily through the influence of geographic features on visibility, available navigational aids, and the suitability of specific routes. For instance, the presence of mountains, valleys, rivers, and other topographical elements can obstruct a pilot's line of sight and affect the performance of various navigational systems.

Certain areas may have limited access to navigational aids like VORs or NDBs, which can dictate the routes that pilots must take to ensure safety and efficiency. Additionally, weather patterns influenced by geography, such as fog in coastal regions or turbulence near mountain ranges, can have a substantial effect on navigation and flight safety. This interplay of physical landscapes and navigational requirements drives the need for careful route planning that takes into account both the geographical constraints and the capabilities of the aircraft.