Navigator - Definition and Overview

For the web browser of the same name, see Netscape Navigator

A navigator is the person onboard a ship responsible for the navigation of the vessel. On aircraft, the position may also be referred to as a flight officer. The navigator's responsibilities include planning the journey, advising the captain (or pilot) while enroute, and ensuring that hazards or obstacles are avoided.

In the United States Air Force, the Navigator Badge is earned by officers so qualified. Depending on the aircraft and job responsibilities, navigators in the Air Force may also be referred to as Weapon System Officers (WSO) or Electronic Warfare Officers (EWO). In the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, the equivalent position is known as a Naval Flight Officer (NFO).

Shipborne Navigators in the U.S. Navy must be Surface Warfare qualified.