Aircraft systems and instrumentsQuestion 566 of 934

What is magnetic variation?

  1. The difference between true and magnetic directions
  2. The error caused by magnetic fields inside the aircraft
  3. The error in a turn on a northerly heading
  4. The error caused by acceleration
Show answer

Correct answer: The difference between true and magnetic directions

The magnetic North Pole is about 1,300 miles from the geographic North Pole.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 8: Flight Instruments — Compass Systems — Magnetic Compass Induced Errors, page 226

Practice aircraft systems and instruments

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026