What formula is used to calculate turn radius when going from a radial to an ARC?

The formula used to calculate the turn radius when transitioning from a radial to an arc involves considering the groundspeed of the aircraft. In this scenario, the correct formula is designed to provide a practical method to determine how tight or wide the turn will be based on the aircraft's groundspeed.

Using the formula TR = (GS/60) - 2, the groundspeed (GS) is divided by 60 to convert it from knots per hour to nautical miles per minute, an essential step for accurately assessing the turn radius in applicable aviation contexts. The subtraction of 2 accounts for additional factors that can influence the turn radius, ensuring that the calculated value is more reflective of real-world performance and safe turning maneuvers.

Understanding turn radius is crucial for pilots when navigating in relation to specific waypoints or while following designated flight paths. By applying the correct formula, pilots can better manage their airspeed and control their flight path effectively, promoting safety and efficiency during maneuvers. This accurate measurement allows for effective route planning and helps prevent overshooting or undershooting during course changes.