International nautical miles, often referred to as nautical miles (NM) or simply nautical miles, is a unit of measurement used predominantly in maritime and aviation contexts to measure distances. It serves as a standardized unit to facilitate navigational calculations, route planning, and communication between vessels and aircraft around the world.
An international nautical mile is defined as exactly 1,852 meters or approximately 1.1508 statute miles. This unit of measure is derived from the circumference of the Earth and has been internationally accepted as a standard since 1929.
Although it uses the term "nautical," which implies a connection to the sea, this unit of measure is also used in aviation since it provides an accurate means of measuring distance. In this context, it helps pilots determine fuel consumption, speed, and flight time. It is particularly useful over vast oceans and areas devoid of visual landmarks.
Notably, the use of nautical miles helps eliminate confusion that can arise due to varying lengths of statute miles in different countries, making it an internationally recognized and universally applicable unit of measurement in the fields of maritime and aviation navigation.
Overall, international nautical miles provide an accurate, global, and standardized means of measuring distances at sea and in the air, ensuring safety, efficiency, and effective communication among maritime and aviation stakeholders.
