What is the optimal way to calculate navigation using GPS?

The optimal way to calculate navigation using GPS is by utilizing the WGS-84 reference frame. WGS-84, or World Geodetic System 1984, is the standard coordinate system used by GPS satellites. This system provides a consistent and accurate framework for representing locations on the Earth's surface. It integrates satellite data, taking into account the Earth's shape, gravitational field, and rotation to ensure precise location determination anywhere on the globe.

By employing WGS-84, GPS devices can deliver accurate positional information with global coverage, which is essential for aviation navigation. The uniformity and accuracy of the WGS-84 reference frame allow for effective integration of GPS data with other mapping and navigation systems, facilitating a seamless experience for pilots and navigators.

In contrast, other reference frames like MERIT (Mid-Continent Interactive GIS) and NAD-27 (North American Datum 1927) are either region-specific or outdated, potentially leading to inaccuracies in positioning data when used for modern GPS applications. Local grid systems might be useful for specific areas, but they lack the global applicability and standardization that WGS-84 offers.