Chapter 7 - Magnetic Heading Reference System

Question 1

What are the reasons for carrying out a compass swing?

Answer 1

• Serviceability of the compass system is suspect
• Periodically as laid down by the maintenance schedule
• When a new aircraft is received from the manufacturer
• For the issue of a CofA
• When certain components of the compass system are replaced
• After repair or modification that could affect the compass system
• If the aircraft is moved permanently to a new airfield, involving a large change in latitude
• Following a lightning strike
• After standing on the same heading for more than one year

Question 2

What determines a class 1 compass base?

Answer 2

Maximum permissible deviation is ±0.1°

Question 3

What determines a class 2 compass base?

Answer 3

Maximum permissible deviation is ±0.25°

Question 4

Where are the full details of compass base requirements laid out?

Answer 4

CAP 562

Question 5

What are the three main parts of a compass swing?

Answer 5

• Correcting swing
• Calibration swing
• Complete documentation

Question 6

What is the correcting swing measured against?

Answer 6

The compass’ cardinal points

Question 7

What headings are used for a calibration swing?

Answer 7

Every 45°

Question 8

What allows the pilot to navigate accurately?

Answer 8

Compass correction card