Spatial exercise · ~2 min a run · free
Radio Bearing Orientation
Read the compass and pointer to find the bearing to the station.
Loading exercise...
This task combines a heading compass with a radio bearing pointer, the way a Radio Magnetic Indicator works. The needle head points at a ground station, so the compass value under the head is the magnetic bearing to it. It tests how quickly you build a mental picture of where you are relative to a fixed point.
About this test
About this test
What this test measures
This measures instrument interpretation and spatial orientation to a fixed point: working out your position or heading relative to a station from a bearing. It is the mental model behind radio navigation.
How to improve your score
- Picture the station, your aircraft and the bearing line as one simple diagram.
- Use reciprocals to convert between a bearing to and a bearing from the station.
- Fix your heading first, then place the station relative to the nose.
Good to know
Good to know
The needle head names the bearing
The pointer head sits on the station, so the compass value under the head is the magnetic bearing to it. You do not add anything; just read the card under the head.Heading plus relative bearing
If you prefer to reason it out, the bearing to the station is your heading plus the relative bearing, the angle of the station from the nose. Both routes give the same card value the needle shows.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to know navigation theory?
Do I need to know navigation theory?
What is the relative bearing?
What is the relative bearing?
Why is it used in selection?
Why is it used in selection?
Training for an airline assessment?
The SkyStudy ATPL question bank is built for EASA ATPL exam preparation, with timed mock exams, spaced repetition and analytics across every subject. Free to start, no card needed.