What does magnetic course refer to?

Magnetic course refers to the direction in which an aircraft is intended to travel, measured in degrees relative to magnetic north. This concept is crucial for navigation, as pilots use magnetic compasses to determine their heading and ensure they are on the correct path. When flying, the pilot will adjust their course to account for magnetic variation to accurately reach their destination.

Understanding magnetic course is essential for flight planning and enroute navigation, as it enables pilots to reconcile their heading with the actual magnetic influences present in the environment, ensuring effective and precise navigation.