What does the term "track made good" refer to?

The term "track made good" specifically refers to the actual path of the aircraft over the ground, which may differ from the planned flight path. It represents the real trajectory that the aircraft has taken, regardless of the intended path laid out in the flight plan. This measurement is crucial for navigation and performance analysis, as it provides insights into the effectiveness of the flight operation in terms of navigation and adherence to the expected route.

Understanding this concept is important for pilots, especially in situations where there may be wind effects, air traffic, or terrain considerations that could cause the aircraft to deviate from the planned route. Accurate knowledge of the track made good assists in navigation and helps ensure that the aircraft reaches its destination efficiently.