Abstract: An area navigation system including a map display unit for entering navigation information to form or modify a programmed navigational route is disclosed. The map display unit is connected to an area navigation computer to supply a cartographic display of a geographic area relevant to a particular navigation route. Specific geographic locations to be used as reference points, or to be eliminated from a previously programmed navigation route, are selected by means of a cursor symbol that is electronically generated on the cartographic display. The position of the cursor symbol and the geographic region displayed are controlled by a single switch located on a control apparatus.