EASA NAV(A)advanced
Describe how to convert a true course to a compass heading when wind, variation, and deviation are given.
Answer
Apply WCA to the true course to find true heading. Convert true heading to magnetic heading using variation, then convert magnetic heading to compass heading using deviation. Use a consistent east/west sign convention and normalize the result to 000°–360°.
Explanation
The conversion follows the reference chain from the desired ground track to the compass indication. First account for wind to obtain heading; then account for the local magnetic variation and aircraft deviation. Sign conventions must be consistent, and final directions are expressed on a 360° circle. **Key takeaway:** Wind, variation, and deviation are distinct corrections applied in sequence.\n\n**Glossary:** **True heading**: aircraft heading referenced to true north; **compass heading**: compass-indicated heading.
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