Definition
One of the four principal compass directions: north (000°/360°), east (090°), south (180°), or west (270°).
Plain English
North, east, south, and west — the four main directions on a compass.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument flying when using headings, compass directions, or timed turns to keep track of where the airplane is pointed.
Derivation
From Latin cardinalis, meaning 'principal' or 'on which something hinges' (from cardo, 'hinge'). The four cardinal points are the directions on which the whole compass rose hinges.
Why Pilots Care
Provides clear reference headings for precise aircraft orientation and control in instrument conditions.
Intuition Check
Do not read cardinal point as “an important point” in a general sense. In this context, it means a main compass direction: north, east, south, or west.
Example Sentence 1
The instructor asked the student to roll out on the nearest cardinal point after completing the timed turn.
Example Sentence 2
Cardinal points serve as reliable checkpoints during instrument approaches.