What type of navigation system is commonly installed in a Cessna 172?

The Cessna 172 is commonly equipped with VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) or GPS (Global Positioning System) navigation systems due to their practicality and reliability in general aviation. VOR is a ground-based radio navigation system that allows pilots to determine their position and stay oriented in relation to navigational aids, using VHF radio signals. GPS, on the other hand, is a satellite-based navigation system that provides precise location and timing information anywhere on Earth. Both systems are essential for navigation, and many newer Cessna 172s come equipped with advanced GPS systems which offer added functionality, such as more detailed mapping and integration with autopilot systems.

In comparison, the other navigation systems mentioned do not typically appear in standard Cessna 172 configurations. An inertial navigation system is more complex and generally found in larger aircraft due to its requirement for significant resources and maintenance. A radio direction finder is largely considered outdated for general aviation navigation, and while ADS-B is an important technology for air traffic surveillance and communications, it is not a primary navigation system.