What is likely to happen if a pilot does not account for magnetic variation?

If a pilot does not account for magnetic variation, the most significant consequence is likely to be improper navigation and potential deviation from the flight path. Magnetic variation, also known as magnetic declination, refers to the angle difference between magnetic north (the direction a magnetic compass points) and true north (the direction towards the North Pole). Since the Earth’s magnetic field is not uniform, this variation changes depending on geographical location.

When navigating, pilots rely on instruments that may be calibrated to true north. If they fail to adjust for magnetic variation, they could misinterpret their heading, leading them to fly an incorrect course. This results in a potential deviation from their intended flight path, which could jeopardize safety by causing them to stray into prohibited or hazardous airspace, or even lead to loss of situational awareness.

In aviation, precise navigation is crucial for safety and operational effectiveness. Ignoring magnetic variation undermines the reliability of navigational instruments, ultimately affecting the pilot's ability to maintain the correct trajectory during flight.