So, my question is, how realistic is MSFS in modelling the flight characteristics in terms of True Course, True Heading, Magnetic Heading, Compass Heading and all the different variations and deviations?
Is it a waste of time in MSFS in figuring all this out? Or iss 180 degrees, 180 degrees no matter what? I understand that wind DOES play a role in heading but I don’t know about all the other real world factors. Can someone enlighten me please?
Magnetic variation (i.e. the difference between true heading and magnetic heading) is modeled in Microsoft Flight Simulator, and you will have to take this into account if you’re planning a cross country flight using dead reckoning for navigation.
Magnetic deviation (i.e. the difference between magnetic heading and compass heading) is not modeled, so you don’t need to correct for this.
Also, as you noted, you will need to correct for any crosswinds en route. If you don’t own a physical whiz wheel yourself, there are a few different online flight computers you can use instead:
@SeedyL3205 Hey, thanks for this info! I have those links already but thanks for sharing. I also use an E6B Simulator which is quite cool to practice with if you’ve never used one before. Coupled with the video link above. Great info!