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Magnetic Variation

The angular difference between true north and magnetic north at a specific location. Used to calculate magnetic headings and courses for navigation and ATC procedures.

Quick answer: The angular difference between true north and magnetic north at a specific location. Used to calculate magnetic headings and courses for navigation and ATC procedures.

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Quick answer

The angular difference between true north and magnetic north at a specific location. Used to calculate magnetic headings and courses for navigation and ATC procedures.

Why it matters

Magnetic Variation matters because it supports clear communication in Navigation contexts for Pilots, Air Traffic Controllers, and Cabin Crew. It also connects to aviation training and exam language such as ICAO Level 4, ICAO Level 5, ICAO Level 6, and EASA FCL.055.

Editorial context

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Questions and answers

Questions and answers

What is Magnetic Variation?

In this glossary, Magnetic Variation refers to: The angular difference between true north and magnetic north at a specific location. Used to calculate magnetic headings and courses for navigation and ATC procedures.

How is Magnetic Variation used in aviation?

In aviation communication, this term appears in contexts such as: "Set heading taking into account the current magnetic variation for accurate navigation."

Why does Magnetic Variation matter in aviation?

Magnetic Variation matters because it supports clear communication in Navigation contexts for Pilots, Air Traffic Controllers, and Cabin Crew. It also connects to aviation training and exam language such as ICAO Level 4, ICAO Level 5, ICAO Level 6, and EASA FCL.055.

Who uses Magnetic Variation?

Magnetic Variation is mainly used by Pilots, Air Traffic Controllers, and Cabin Crew.

What category does Magnetic Variation belong to?

In this glossary, Magnetic Variation is grouped under Navigation. Related pages in this category explain adjacent procedures, commands and operational concepts.

Where does this definition come from?

This definition is sourced from ICAO Doc 9432, FAA PCG and published by Protermify Aviation as a static aviation reference page.

Definition

The angular difference between true north and magnetic north at a specific location. Used to calculate magnetic headings and courses for navigation and ATC procedures.

Operational example

Set heading taking into account the current magnetic variation for accurate navigation.

Definition language

English reference definition

Source

ICAO Doc 9432, FAA PCG

Category

Navigation

Exam relevance

  • ICAO Level 4
  • ICAO Level 5
  • ICAO Level 6
  • EASA FCL.055

Target audience

  • Pilots
  • Air Traffic Controllers
  • Cabin Crew

Related terms

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