Course and Heading

Course vs Heading Explained

• Course is the planned direction over the ground from one waypoint to another, measured from a reference north (true or magnetic). It is the line you intend to follow on a map.
• Heading is the direction in which the aircraft's nose is pointed, also measured from north. Due to wind, the heading is often different from the course.

The Role of Wind and Drift

• Wind can push the aircraft off its intended course, creating a difference between the heading and the actual track over the ground.
• The wind correction angle (WCA) is applied to the course to determine the correct heading that will compensate for wind drift and keep the aircraft on the intended path.
• Drift angle is the angle between the heading and the track made good over the ground.

Practical Application: 1 in 60 Rule

• The 1 in 60 rule helps estimate the heading change needed to correct for being off-course: a 1 NM deviation after 60 NM flown equates to a 1° track error.
• To regain the desired track, calculate the track error angle and adjust heading accordingly.

Calculating and Applying Corrections

• Use navigation computers or mental math to determine the required heading from the course, factoring in wind direction and speed.
• In the exam, you may be asked to calculate the heading, drift, or required correction at an off-course fix using these principles.

Key Differences

• Course: Intended ground path.
• Heading: Aircraft's pointed direction.
• Track: Actual path over the ground, which may differ from both due to wind.

Understanding these distinctions is critical for safe and accurate flight navigation, especially in changing wind conditions.