Airman Certification Standards
ACS CA.VI.A
Pilotage and Dead Reckoning
Knowledge
Pilotage and dead reckoning.
Magnetic compass errors.
Topography.
Selection of appropriate:
b. Altitude(s)
c. Checkpoints
Plotting a course, including:
a. Determining heading, speed, and course
b. Wind correction angle
c. Estimating time, speed, and distance
d. True airspeed and density altitude
Power setting selection.
Planned calculations versus actual results and required corrections.
Risk Management
Collision hazards.
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Unplanned fuel/power consumption, if applicable.
Skill
Prepare and use a flight log.
Navigate by pilotage.
Navigate by means of pre-computed headings, groundspeeds, elapsed time, and reference to landmarks or checkpoints.
Use the magnetic direction indicator in navigation, including turns to headings.
Verify position within two nautical miles of the flight-planned route. 42
Arrive at the en route checkpoints within three minutes of the initial or revised estimated time of arrival (ETA) and provide a destination estimate.
Maintain the selected altitude, ±100 feet and heading, ±10°.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.