Why is understanding magnetic declination important for pilots?

Understanding magnetic declination is crucial for pilots because it allows them to make necessary corrections to their compass heading in order to compensate for the difference between true north and magnetic north. The Earth’s magnetic field is not aligned perfectly with the geographic poles, leading to variations in magnetic declination that can vary by location and change over time.

When pilots are navigating, they rely on their magnetic compass, which points toward magnetic north, rather than true north. If a pilot does not account for magnetic declination, the course they believe they're flying may not correspond accurately to their intended track over the ground. This can lead to navigational errors, especially during long flights or when flying in areas where the declination is significant. Therefore, understanding and applying magnetic declination ensures that pilots can navigate accurately, especially when transitioning from one area to another where the declination might differ.