What is the primary function of Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) in aviation?

The primary function of Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) is to provide pilots with the distance to a ground station. DME operates by measuring the time it takes for a signal sent from the aircraft to reach a ground-based DME station and to return. This allows the aircraft to determine its distance from the station accurately, which is critical for navigation and for maintaining proper distances during approach and departure from airports. This distance information aids pilots in planning their route, maintaining situational awareness, and ensuring safe separation from other aircraft.

Other functions associated with aviation equipment, such as controlling descent speed or providing communication capabilities, are not the specific roles of DME. The equipment is solely focused on measuring distance, making it an essential tool for navigational accuracy in aviation. Furthermore, while fuel consumption monitoring is important for flight operations, it is entirely separate from the purpose of DME.