Table of Contents
- What is Compass Deviation Card Template?
- Why Do You Need a Compass Deviation Card Template?
- How to Create a Compass Deviation Card Template?
- What Information Should be Included in a Compass Deviation Card Template?
- How to Use a Compass Deviation Card Template?
- Common Issues with Compass Deviation Card Template
- Tips for Creating a Compass Deviation Card Template
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
What is Compass Deviation Card Template?
A compass deviation card template is a tool used by pilots to determine the deviation of their compass. The deviation is the difference between the magnetic north and true north. This deviation can be caused by the aircraft’s electrical systems and the surrounding metal objects, which can disrupt the magnetic field and affect the compass reading.
The deviation card is a graphical representation of the compass deviation for a specific aircraft. It helps pilots to adjust their compass readings to the actual magnetic north and fly the correct heading.
Why Do You Need a Compass Deviation Card Template?
A compass deviation card template is essential for safe flying. It ensures that the pilot has an accurate compass reading, which is necessary for navigation and maintaining the correct heading. Without a deviation card, the pilot may be flying in the wrong direction, which can lead to dangerous situations.
Additionally, a deviation card is required by law for commercial aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires all aircraft to have a deviation card on board and updated every year.
How to Create a Compass Deviation Card Template?
The process of creating a compass deviation card template involves several steps:
- Prepare the aircraft for the calibration process, including removing any metal objects and turning off all electrical systems.
- Choose a location with a known magnetic heading, such as an airport or a VOR station. Use a compass to determine the magnetic heading at that location.
- Take off and fly the aircraft in a circular pattern around the location, maintaining a constant altitude and airspeed.
- Record the compass readings at each degree of the circle and the corresponding magnetic headings.
- Calculate the deviation for each degree by subtracting the magnetic heading from the compass reading.
- Plot the deviation on a graph, with the degrees on the x-axis and the deviation on the y-axis.
- Draw a line of best fit through the plotted points to create the deviation card template.
It’s important to note that the calibration process must be repeated every year and whenever any significant changes are made to the aircraft’s electrical or metal systems.
What Information Should be Included in a Compass Deviation Card Template?
The following information should be included in a compass deviation card template:
- Aircraft make and model
- Serial number
- Date of calibration
- Name of the person who performed the calibration
- Compass manufacturer and type
- Magnetic heading at calibration location
- Compass readings and corresponding magnetic headings at each degree of the circle
- Deviation values for each degree
- Line of best fit through the plotted points
How to Use a Compass Deviation Card Template?
Using a compass deviation card template is a straightforward process:
- Before takeoff, adjust the compass reading to the actual magnetic heading by adding or subtracting the deviation value from the compass reading.
- During flight, monitor the compass reading and adjust it as necessary based on the deviation card.
- Update the deviation card every year and whenever any significant changes are made to the aircraft’s electrical or metal systems.
Common Issues with Compass Deviation Card Template
The following are common issues that pilots may encounter with a compass deviation card template:
- Inaccurate calibration
- Incorrect interpretation of the deviation card
- Failure to update the deviation card regularly
- Failure to adjust the compass reading based on the deviation card
To avoid these issues, pilots should ensure that the calibration is performed by a qualified technician, and they are familiar with the interpretation and use of the deviation card.
Tips for Creating a Compass Deviation Card Template
Here are some tips for creating a compass deviation card template:
- Choose a location with a known magnetic heading for calibration.
- Fly the aircraft in a circular pattern around the calibration location to ensure accurate readings.
- Record the compass readings at each degree of the circle and the corresponding magnetic headings.
- Calculate the deviation for each degree and plot it on a graph.
- Draw a line of best fit through the plotted points to create the deviation card template.
- Ensure that the deviation card is updated every year and whenever any significant changes are made to the aircraft’s electrical or metal systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a compass deviation card template?
A compass deviation card template is used to determine the deviation of the aircraft’s compass and adjust the compass reading to the actual magnetic north. It ensures safe navigation and maintains the correct heading.
How often should a compass deviation card template be updated?
A compass deviation card template should be updated every year and whenever any significant changes are made to the aircraft’s electrical or metal systems.
What are the common issues with a compass deviation card template?
The common issues with a compass deviation card template include inaccurate calibration, incorrect interpretation of the deviation card, failure to update the deviation card regularly, and failure to adjust the compass reading based on the deviation card.
Final Thoughts
A compass deviation card template is an essential tool for safe flying. It ensures that the pilot has an accurate compass reading and maintains the correct heading. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the tips provided, pilots can create an accurate and reliable deviation card template that will help them navigate the skies safely and efficiently.