What occurs during North/South turning errors with a magnetic compass?

Prepare for your Helicopter PPL Checkride Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your pilot examination!

During North/South turning errors with a magnetic compass, the compass indicates an incorrect heading during turns. This phenomenon occurs due to the magnetic dip, which affects the compass's accuracy as the aircraft is rotated around the vertical axis.

When an aircraft turns from a north or south heading, the compass may initially lag or lead in its indication. For instance, if you are turning from North to East, the compass might show a greater heading than your actual heading, displaying a misleading indication. This discrepancy is because the compass relies on magnetic fields, which behave differently when the aircraft moves through various headings, especially around the magnetic poles.

This erroneous reading can lead to navigational mistakes, as pilots may rely on the compass for directional guidance. Understanding these turning errors is crucial for maintaining accurate situational awareness during flight and for ensuring safe navigation.

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