Bearing

Bearing is the direction from a reference point to another point or object. It is expressed as an angle from a stated reference, usually magnetic north or true north. Bearing can describe the direction to a station, waypoint, airport, or aircraft.

How it works

A bearing is measured from the reference point looking toward the target. A bearing to a waypoint is different from a bearing from that waypoint. The reference also matters. A magnetic bearing accounts for magnetic variation, while a true bearing is measured from true north.

Bearing is related to, but not identical to, track or heading. Heading describes where the nose points. Track describes the direction of movement across the ground. Bearing describes the direction between two positions or from an aircraft to a target. Wind and position changes can make all three values differ.

Example

An aircraft is west of an airport and the airport lies due east. The magnetic bearing to the airport may be approximately 090°, depending on local magnetic variation. If a crosswind is present, the aircraft may need a heading different from 090° to maintain a track toward the airport.

Why it matters

Pilots use bearings to interpret navigation displays, identify relative positions, and compare a desired route with actual movement. Confusing bearing to with bearing from can reverse the intended course. Confusing magnetic and true references can also introduce a navigation error.

Use the chart legend, instrument indications, and aircraft navigation procedures to identify the reference being used. Confirm position with more than one reliable source when practical.

Related terms and tools

• Track
• Magnetic variation
• Groundspeed