The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word NAVAID
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More clues leading to the result NAVAID
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Gadget to assist pilot" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case gadget to assist pilot = navaid.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does NAVAID mean?
NAVAID noun- Any form of aid to navigation, particularly applying to shipping and aviation. Examples: lighthouse, or ILS (instrument landing system)