Wind Correction Angle Calculator
Find WCA, heading to fly, and ground speed for navigation.
Instructions
1
Enter TAS and course
Course is the desired ground track.
2
Enter wind
Speed and direction FROM (as in METAR).
3
Calculate WCA
Use the heading and ground speed for planning.
Formula
WCA = arcsin( (W/V) · sin(β) )
β = windto − course
Heading = course + WCA. Ground speed from vector triangle.
Example: TAS=120, course=090°, wind 20 kt from 030° ⇒ WCA≈ −7.7°, heading≈ 082°, GS≈ 115 kt.
Common Questions
Magnetic vs true?
Use consistent reference for both course and wind direction (both true or both magnetic).
Units?
Any speed units work as long as TAS and wind use the same units.