What does "magnetic variation" indicate?

Magnetic variation is a crucial concept in navigation, referring specifically to the angle between magnetic north (the direction a compass points) and true north (the geographic North Pole). This variation is important for pilots and navigators because it affects the accuracy of compass-based navigation.

Understanding magnetic variation is vital for flight planning and navigation since it allows pilots to correct for this difference when using magnetic headings. Knowing the variation helps ensure that the navigation is aligned with the actual geographic North, which is what navigational charts and flight planning rely on.

In practical applications, this means pilots need to know the current magnetic variation for their flight area to adjust their heading appropriately, ensuring that they maintain the intended course. This adjustment is particularly significant in regions where the variation is substantial, as failing to account for magnetic variation could lead to navigation errors.