What does the 'V' in VDMONA stand for in relation to magnetic compass errors?

The 'V' in VDMONA stands for Variation, which refers to the difference between true north and magnetic north due to the irregularities of Earth's magnetic field. Variation is a crucial aspect for pilots to understand as it affects navigation and flight planning. When navigating, a pilot must consider this variation to ensure accurate heading and course calculations.

In flight operations, pilots track their bearings using a magnetic compass, so understanding variation helps mitigate potential navigational errors that can arise from this difference. Knowing how to adjust for magnetic variation is essential for pilots to maintain accurate navigation, especially in areas where the variation is significant. This understanding is reinforced during flight training and is vital for safe and effective pilot operations.