Trigonometry in aviation examples

In most cases, trigonometry is about the hardest type of math that you’ll need to use as a pilot

This is the math that involves the relationships between sides and angles of a triangle

Things like sin, cosine, and tangent, for example

I think the best example of routine use of trigonometry by pilots is to calculate winds aloft

The data a pilot has on hand is his compass heading and his airspeed and his altitude and his true bearing based upon passing landmarks on the ground

Objective: To show a practical application of Trigonometry in the aviation environment

Equipment required: A scientific calculator with TAN function

Background: When approaching an airport, pilots must learn to maneuver their aircraft visually, so that a stabilized approach to the runway can be flown at a constant approach angle