What does the magnetic compass show to the pilot?

The magnetic compass is a key instrument in an aircraft that provides the pilot with the aircraft's heading relative to Magnetic North. This is crucial for navigation, as it allows pilots to determine their directional position in relation to the earth's magnetic field. Unlike True North, which is based on the geographic North Pole, Magnetic North is influenced by the magnetic fields of the Earth and can vary in different locations, known as magnetic declination.

Understanding this distinction is vital for flight operations, especially when navigating using charts that may reference True North. The compass does not provide information about the aircraft's speed or position relative to waypoints, which are utilized for navigation but provided through other instruments and technologies. The accurate functioning of the magnetic compass is essential for pilots to maintain proper course and ensure safe navigation during flight.