Heading

Aircraft Heading

Aircraft Heading refers to the direction in which an airplane’s longitudinal axis is pointing in relation to true or magnetic north. This heading is calculated based on the aircraft’s course while adding or subtracting any wind correction angle.

It is usually expressed in degrees, measured in a clockwise direction with North designated as 0°, East as 90°, South as 180°, and West as 270°.

It should be noted that Heading is not necessarily the same as the aircraft’s track due to the influence of wind. Furthermore, the aircraft’s Heading is the same as the direction in which the nose of the plane is pointing during the course of a flight.

A precise knowledge of an aircraft’s Heading is fundamental to ensure it navigates safely, follows the correct route, and avoids other planes or obstacles in flight.