Acceleration Error Definition
Acceleration error is a phenomenon observed in magnetic compasses during the acceleration of an aircraft while flying on an easterly or westerly heading. This results in the apparent rotation of the compass card towards the North. This error occurs due to the interaction of the magnetic field of the earth and the acceleration forces acting on the compass. An acceleration error can be corrected by using a correction card or by applying correction values to the magnetic heading. It is important to correct acceleration errors to ensure the accuracy of heading measurements and to prevent navigational errors. The use of electronic navigation aids has greatly reduced the need to rely on magnetic compasses, but the understanding and correction of acceleration errors remains important for safe and accurate flight.
« Back to Glossary Index