What type of navigation relies on fixed points to assist in maintaining a desired flight path?

Ground reference navigation is the type of navigation that relies on fixed points on the Earth's surface to help maintain a desired flight path. This method involves using visual landmarks such as roads, buildings, or terrain features that the operator can see or recognize from the air. By referencing these known locations, pilots can effectively navigate and maintain their intended route. This technique is especially useful in situations where other navigation aids might be unavailable, such as in remote areas.

Celestial navigation, on the other hand, uses the position of celestial bodies for navigation, which is different from relying on fixed points on the ground. Inertial navigation systems utilize internal sensors to track the aircraft's position relative to its previous movements, making it independent of external references. Dead reckoning calculates the current position based on a previously determined position, speed, and direction of travel but does not inherently rely on fixed ground points for adjustments.