What is the formula for calculating drift angles in navigation?

The formula for calculating drift angles in navigation is best captured in the option that states Drift Angle = Wind Correction Angle + Track Angle Error. This is because the drift angle is the angular difference between the aircraft's heading and the aircraft's true track over the ground due to the influence of wind.

To break it down further, the wind correction angle is the adjustment made to the aircraft's heading in order to maintain a desired track across the ground. The track angle error refers to the discrepancy between the intended track and the actual path, caused primarily by wind.

By adding the wind correction angle to the track angle error, you effectively determine how much the wind is pushing the aircraft off its intended course, allowing you to accurately adjust your heading to compensate for this drift. This understanding is essential for pilots in order to navigate efficiently and accurately in varying wind conditions.