FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)Navigation and Flight PlanningHard
A pilot is planning a VFR cross-country flight at an altitude of 4,500 feet MSL. The true course is 090 degrees, true airspeed is 100 knots, and the wind is from 045 degrees at 20 knots. What is the approximate true heading and ground speed?
- ATrue Heading 090 degrees, Ground Speed 100 knots
- BTrue Heading 075 degrees, Ground Speed 95 knots
- CTrue Heading 081 degrees, Ground Speed 112 knots
- DTrue Heading 099 degrees, Ground Speed 88 knots
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. True Heading 081 degrees, Ground Speed 112 knots
Using a flight computer or E6B, input the true course (090), true airspeed (100 knots), and wind (045 at 20 knots). Align the wind direction with the true index, mark the wind velocity, rotate the true course under the true index, and slide the grid for true airspeed. The resulting true heading will be approximately 081 degrees, and the ground speed will be approximately 112 knots.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This option assumes no wind correction, which is incorrect given the stated wind conditions.
- B. This option likely results from incorrect wind correction application or misreading of a flight computer.
- D. This option likely results from incorrect wind correction application or misreading of a flight computer.
Wind Correction Angle
The angle between the true course and the true heading, necessary to compensate for the effect of wind on an aircraft's flight path.
- Calculated to maintain the desired course over the ground.
- Accounts for wind direction and speed relative to the aircraft's movement.
- Determines the true heading an aircraft must fly to achieve its true course.
Memory trick: To Stay on Course, Adjust Your Nose with the Wind's Force.