How do you convert nautical miles to statute miles?

To convert nautical miles to statute miles, the correct method is to multiply the number of nautical miles by 1.15078. This conversion factor is based on the understanding that one nautical mile is defined as exactly 1.15078 statute miles. Nautical miles are primarily used in maritime and aviation contexts, as they are based on the circumference of the Earth and are therefore more useful for navigation over large distances.

Using this conversion factor allows for accurate calculations in flight planning and navigation, ensuring pilots can easily determine distance and travel times while executing flight operations. In practical terms, if you have, for example, 10 nautical miles, multiplying by 1.15078 would yield approximately 11.51 statute miles, illustrating how the conversion reflects the distinct measurement systems used in different contexts. This precise figure is critical, especially in aviation, where accurate distance calculations can impact fuel consumption, flight planning, and overall operational efficiency.