Aviation Training Experts

Aviation Training Experts™

Wind Correction Angle Calculator

Calculate wind correction angle, corrected heading, and groundspeed using true course, true airspeed, wind direction, and wind speed. This free aviation calculator helps pilots solve the wind triangle for planning and navigation.

Calculate Wind Correction Angle

Enter the planned course, true airspeed, wind direction, and wind speed to calculate wind correction angle, corrected heading, and groundspeed.

Wind Triangle Calculator

How It Works

Wind Correction Angle:
WCA = arcsin((Wind Speed × sin Wind Angle) ÷ True Airspeed)
Corrected Heading:
Heading = True Course + WCA
Groundspeed:
GS = TAS × cos(WCA) - Wind Speed × cos(Wind Angle)

This calculator solves the classic wind triangle used in flight planning and navigation.

What Is Wind Correction Angle?

Wind correction angle is the correction a pilot applies to heading in order to maintain the desired ground track when wind is pushing the aircraft left or right of course.

Without wind correction, the aircraft drifts. By applying the correct wind correction angle, pilots can stay on the intended course and better estimate actual groundspeed.

Why Pilots Use a Wind Correction Angle Calculator

Wind Correction Angle FAQ

What is the difference between course and heading?

Course is the intended path over the ground. Heading is the direction the nose of the aircraft points. Wind can make them different.

Why is groundspeed different from true airspeed?

Groundspeed is speed over the ground after wind is applied. True airspeed is speed through the air mass.

What happens with a pure crosswind?

A pure crosswind creates wind correction angle and drift, but little or no direct headwind or tailwind component.

Should I use magnetic or true values?

This calculator is built for true course and true wind direction. Keep your inputs in the same reference system for best results.