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How to Calculate Drift Angle

Navigation requires an understanding of basic geometry. You need to know where you want to go in comparison to where you are currently headed so that you can correct your heading. The drift angle is the difference between the heading you are on and the heading you want to be going in. It is commonly calculated in aviation and boating when the air or water currents pull the vessel off its intended course.

Things You'll Need

Map of area
Protractor
Ruler
Pencil or pen

Instructions

How to Calculate Drift Angle
- 1
  Locate your current or starting position on the map.
- 2
  Draw a line representing your intended heading (a line from your current position to your destination).
- 3
  Draw a line representing your current heading (a line from your current position to a point you will reach if you continue in the current heading).
- 4
  Use the protractor to measure the angle difference between the two lines. This is the drift angle.

Aviation