I received a PM from Anonymous with some points about magnetic track which, since the sender was Anonymous, I couldn't repond to so I'll do so on here. Please bear in mind I'm not trying to say that anyone is wrong, but trying to provoke significant justification such that we can make a case to change or enhance the software.
> The reference instrument for all aircraft flying today is still the magnetic compass.
Yes. However once airborne the compass will not read the same as the potential mag track column unless there is nil crosswind. I'm afraid I therefore don't understand the relevancy of this statement.
> It is the magnetic track ... that is entered into ... built-in IFR GPS's.
This is pretty compelling. When would you enter an actual track (whether it's true or magnetic) rather than simply entering the waypoints?
> All runway headings are in degrees magnetic as are all bearings derived from VORs.
Yes, but it is unclear how having SkyDemon output legs as magnetic bearings is relevant to runway headings. Could you explain how bearings derived from VORs relate to one's PLOG, unless you are actually tracking along a radial?
> All bearings on airfield plates are in dregrees magnetic.
Agreed. However the PLOG shows enroute legs only; could you explain how the potential mag track column will be used to relate to the magnetic bearings shown on airfield plates?
> How is SkyDemon applying magnetic variation, which varies from place to place?
SkyDemon uses the standard magnetic model of the earth to calculate the exact magnetic declination at the midpoint of each leg, on the day the flight is planned. If you think SkyDemon's value for magnetic declination at a specific point is wrong, please let us know the position and what you think it should be.