If you are planning a flight along V139 and the winds aloft are 296 degrees true, what is the magnetic wind direction?

To determine the magnetic wind direction when given the true wind direction, you must consider the relationship between true and magnetic directions based on the local magnetic variation (also known as magnetic declination).

In this scenario, the true wind is coming from 296 degrees. To convert true wind to magnetic wind, you need to adjust for the local magnetic variation in your area. If the variation is easterly, you add the variation to the true wind direction. If the variation is westerly, you subtract it.

Assuming that the local magnetic variation is about 8 degrees east (a common figure in certain regions), you would add this variation to the true wind direction of 296 degrees:

296 degrees (true wind) + 8 degrees (easterly variation) = 304 degrees (magnetic wind direction).

This calculation supports the answer chosen because 304 degrees reflects the adjustment made considering the magnetic variation. Always confirm the local magnetic variation for your flight area to ensure accurate calculations.