Kilometers to Nautical Miles Calculator
Enter the distance in kilometers (km) below to convert it to nautical miles (NM):
Understanding Kilometers to Nautical Miles Conversion
The kilometer (km) is a metric unit, while the nautical mile (NM) is primarily used in maritime and aviation navigation. To convert kilometers to nautical miles, use the formula:
Formula: Nautical Miles = Kilometers × 0.539957
For example, 10 kilometers equals 5.4 nautical miles (10 × 0.539957).
Why Convert Kilometers to Nautical Miles?
Common reasons for converting km to nautical miles include:
- Maritime Navigation: Used for measuring distances at sea.
- Aviation: Essential for flight planning and air navigation.
- Military & Defense: Standard measurement in naval and aerial operations.
- Scientific Research: Applied in oceanography and geospatial studies.
Common Mistakes When Converting km to NM
- Using incorrect conversion factors: Always multiply by 0.539957 for accuracy.
- Confusing nautical miles with standard miles: Nautical miles are longer than standard miles.
- Rounding errors: Keep at least four decimal places for precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many nautical miles are in 20 kilometers?
20 kilometers is equal to 10.8 nautical miles.
Is this tool accurate for navigation?
Yes, it provides precise metric-to-nautical conversions for professional maritime and aviation use.
Can I enter negative values?
No, distances must always be positive values.