Which term best describes the direction the aircraft's nose is pointing relative to magnetic north?

Which term best describes the direction the aircraft's nose is pointing relative to magnetic north?

• A. Bearing
• B. Heading
• C. Course
• D. Track

Answer: (B)

The direction the airplane’s nose is pointing relative to magnetic north is described by the heading. Heading is the orientation of the aircraft’s longitudinal axis with respect to north, and when you reference magnetic north you’re talking about magnetic heading. Bearing refers to the direction from an observer to a specific point, not the airplane’s nose. Course is the planned path over the ground, while track is the actual path over the ground, which can differ from heading due to wind. So, heading best fits the concept being described.

The direction the airplane’s nose is pointing relative to magnetic north is described by the heading. Heading is the orientation of the aircraft’s longitudinal axis with respect to north, and when you reference magnetic north you’re talking about magnetic heading. Bearing refers to the direction from an observer to a specific point, not the airplane’s nose. Course is the planned path over the ground, while track is the actual path over the ground, which can differ from heading due to wind. So, heading best fits the concept being described.