Definition of Wind Correction Angle (WCA)
The Wind Correction Angle (WCA) is the angle required between the desired track a pilot wishes to navigate through, and the actual heading of the aircraft necessary to maintain track over the desired path while accounting for prevailing winds. In simpler terms, the WCA is the angle between the direction the aircraft is heading towards and the direction it needs to point to maintain its desired course in the presence of crosswinds. Pilots must calculate this angle in real-time, taking into account wind speed and direction, to ensure the aircraft’s trajectory is accurate despite wind drift. The WCA is an important factor in flight planning, especially in situations where the desired path has to be adjusted to compensate for wind. Pilots must make constant adjustments to the aircraft’s heading and maintain the appropriate Wind Correction Angle to reach their destination safely and efficiently.
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