It seems possible to me to fly direct between most any 2 points, off
airways, without vectors, using 2 VOR's and a sectional chart. Just
plot a series of radial intersections at appropriate distances from
each other to ensure remaining close (for gov'ment work) to the
desired direct track.

I don't know if it is legal or not (that would be up to the FAA, after
the accident), but it would be impractical. I have almost never flown
an IFR clearance that I have carefully plotted at home. The clearance I
get is different, and there are numerous reroutes enroute. Imagine
being in bumpy air in the soup, and given "direct WAYNS". You are
somewhere between two VORs flying an airway. Ok, with an intersection
you can figure out pretty much where you are, now try plotting it on
your lap on a sectional, crossing from front to back, going over three
creases, bumping along in the clouds. Betcha can't even draw a straight
line, let alone calculate points along it.

Jose
--
He who laughs, lasts.
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