Navigation
Map, compass and calculations
Glider navigation combines dead reckoning, pilotage, and the use of turning points. Know the difference between true, magnetic, and compass headings, and how variation and deviation are applied (variation east, magnetic least). Understand track versus heading, and how wind drift changes the track made good.
Tools and techniques
- Chart reading: airspace boundaries, controlled airspace, danger areas, and symbols.
- The flight computer: wind triangle, ground speed, and time calculations.
- GPS and moving-map displays: useful for situational awareness but not a substitute for looking outside and for a planned alternative.
- Position fixing: line features, towns, and radio navigation where available.
Cross-country technique
Plan turning points with safe outlanding options and note escape routes. Use the 1-in-60 rule: a 1° error over 60 nm puts you 1 nm off track. Update the wind estimate from observed drift.
Traps
Confusing variation with deviation, or applying variation in the wrong direction. Another trap: trusting a GPS track without checking it against the chart, or assuming a waypoint is reachable without a final glide check. Questions may also test whether you can identify a position from a described feature - read the description carefully.
Worked example
Track required 090° true, variation 5° west. Magnetic track = 090 + 5 = 095°M. If compass deviation is 2° east, compass heading = 095 − 2 = 093°C. Rule of thumb: variation east, magnetic least; deviation east, compass least.