Your Voice Counts: Join the Discussion on True North Navigation

June 6, 2025

NBAA is encouraging members to share their opinions on a proposal to transition global aviation to true north navigation through a brief and anonymous survey conducted by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC).

Much of the world’s current air navigation relies on magnetic north, which fluctuates due to changes in the Earth’s magnetic field. This magnetic variance requires frequent updates to charts, databases, navigation aids and even runway numbers, and can impose considerable maintenance costs on operators.

Proponents for true north navigation say this change could simplify aviation operations, enhance accuracy and significantly reduce costs.

With support for true north navigation growing, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has established the True North Advisory Group to gather industry feedback and determine how best to implement a shift in the global navigation process while addressing concerns from operators and navigation service providers.

IBAC, as business aviation’s accredited voice at ICAO, is seeking the business aviation community’s input to better understand how a transition to true north might impact this vital global industry.
The 10-minute survey will help IBAC better understand operators’ familiarity with true north navigation and provide insights into equipage challenges, operator readiness, and the industry’s technical and operational concerns.

Take the IBAC Transition to True North survey.

“IBAC’s survey is a great opportunity for our members to have their voice heard on a potentially major shift in the global air navigation system,” said Doug Carr, NBAA senior vice president, safety, security, sustainability and international affairs.

“The survey is easy to complete, and the results will enable IBAC to represent the interests of the business aviation industry,” he added. “We are the most effective advocates for our future, and this survey ensures our community plays a central role in shaping future processes.”