If a CDI needle is deflected to the right, why is the aircraft off track to the left?

Question

Consider a CDI as shown below. If the CDI is set to FROM and the selected course is north, but the needle indicates three dots to the right (each dot signifying a 2 degree deviation from the selected course, i.e. 6 degrees in total), then why is the aircraft's radial at 354 degrees?

I associate a right movement of the needle with a "positive deviation", which would correspond to the aircraft's radial being at 006 degrees.

You're left of course, so the CDI is telling you to fly right so you get back on course. — Vikki, Apr 03 '19 at 22:30

Steve V. · Accepted Answer · 2019-04-02T20:24:03.223

4

The CDI indicates your desired course. The white circle in the center of the instrument represents your position. If the desired course is to the right of your position, you need to move to your right to rejoin your course.

edited Apr 02 '19 at 20:24

answered Apr 02 '19 at 20:09

Steve V.

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Okay, it maybe is that simple. Thanks! – psie Apr 02 '19 at 20:22
It is once you understand the instrument! Excellent graphic by the way. – Michael Hall Apr 02 '19 at 20:27

If a CDI needle is deflected to the right, why is the aircraft off track to the left?

1 Answers1