It is in our nature as humans to plan. Some of us do it formally, writing down step by step instructions with a well-defined goal in mind. Others plan at a smaller scale, often thinking about step 2 after step 1 is underway. If you are out doing errands, advanced planning can save time with a more efficient route. If you are doing a project, planning can help avoid painting yourself into a corner (literally). When it comes to travel, planning might include packing things you will need or putting a hold on the mail, but it most definitely will involve some sort of pre-determined route. Airline pilots do this sort of route planning routinely to conserve fuel, avoid bad weather, and arrive at their destination on time. They submit a formal flight plan to document their intentions.
Pilots have their own lingo, helping to ensure clear radio communications. A typical flight will likely involve VFR, IFR and VOR and most certainly will be highly dependent on ATC. One acronym to be avoided at all costs is CFIT (controlled flight into terrain), which is just as bad as it sounds. If you know your precise location and altitude, CFIT is unlikely, even if IFR conditions are making it impossible to see anything out the window. This is where GPS comes in.
Beginning with the DoD NAVSTAR satellite-based system in 1993, GPS developed into a sophisticated positioning system that is highly accurate, easily accessed and substantially free of charge. It is operated by the Air Force for the US Government to meet the needs of military, civil, commercial, and scientific users. Coarse position codes are open to everyone, while the more accurate ones are restricted to the US Armed Forces and Federal Agencies. That GPS in your car can get you to within about 10 feet of your destination and if you can’t recognize it by then there’s not much more technology can do for you. As for the military version, let’s just say it is much more accurate and leave it at that.
