Quick Facts
- Type
- Unit of Measurement
- Definition
- A unit of distance equal to one minute of latitude (1,852 meters / 6,076 feet)
- Used By
- Pilots, ATC
Definition#
A nautical mile (NM) is a unit of distance equal to approximately 1,852 meters (6,076 feet or 1.151 statute miles). It corresponds to one minute of arc of latitude along any meridian.
Why It Matters Operationally#
Nautical miles are the standard unit for measuring distance in aviation and maritime navigation. Airspeed in knots is nautical miles per hour. One degree of latitude equals 60 NM, making calculations straightforward.