Bearing
Definition
The direction from one point to another, expressed in degrees from true north (0-360). Used in aviation to describe the heading of an aircraft or the direction to a navigation point.
Related Terms
Great Circle
The shortest path between two points on the surface of a sphere, following the curve of the Earth. Aircraft follow great circle routes for fuel efficiency on long-haul flights.
Waypoint
A predetermined geographical position defined by latitude/longitude coordinates, used for navigation and flight planning. Waypoints are identified by five-letter names (e.g., TIGER, SHARK).
Latitude
The angular distance of a point north or south of the equator, measured in degrees from 0 (equator) to 90 (poles). Combined with longitude, it specifies any location on Earth.