How can a pilot confirm that the compass has been properly swung?

To confirm that the compass has been properly swung, checking the appropriate entry in the Journey Logbook is the most reliable method. The Journey Logbook serves as an official record that documents maintenance performed on the aircraft, including compass swinging. This process is conducted to ensure that the compass is accurate in relation to the magnetic headings and to account for any magnetic variations due to the aircraft's structure or installed equipment.

When the compass is swung, the mechanic will calibrate it and document the results in the logbook. This documentation includes details about the compass adjustments made, which can be crucial for the pilot to verify that the compass is functioning correctly prior to flight. Relying on the logbook entry not only provides proof of the compass condition but also ensures that the pilot is informed about any previous calibrations or issues that may impact navigation.

Although inspecting the calibration marks might provide some insight, it does not guarantee that the compass has been accurately adjusted or that the adjustments were recorded. Testing with a magnetic declination tool might also help understand local magnetic variations, but it won’t confirm whether an official calibration has been performed. Asking the mechanic for verbal confirmation lacks the documentation aspect and is not a reliable method since it doesn’t provide a formal record of calibration. Therefore