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A pilot is planning a flight from position X to position Z via the shortest distance between X and Z.Given the following information, calculate the final true track between the two positions.

Position X: 37°N, 010°E 
Position Z: In the northern hemisphere, but exact coordinates are NOT provided. 
Convergency between X and Z: 20° 
Initial true track direction: 122°

  • A
    102°
  • B
    132°
  • C
    112°
  • D
    142°

Refer to figure. 
Shortest distance means that the aircraft follows a Great Circle track. 
Because of the meridians’ convergency, the great circles have a changing track direction along their length.

A simple diagram would help to identify the final true track at Z point:

  • At the North hemisphere the meridians converge inwards.
  • The initial true track is a little eastwards (122°).
  • The Great circle true track is always the clockwise angle from the true meridian to the track direction.
  • It is obvious that the track cuts the meridian at Z point at a higher angle, by the convergency 20°.

Convergency is the change of the true track between two points.

Since the initial track is 122o, the convergency is 20° and the track cuts the meridian at a higher angle at Z point, then the final true track is: 122o + 20o = 142°.

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