What does dead reckoning use to estimate groundspeed, time en route, and fuel usage?

Dead reckoning is a method of navigation that relies on estimations based on known data rather than direct observation or external references. The correct answer identifies the use of wind speed and aircraft performance as crucial elements in this navigation technique.

In dead reckoning, pilots begin with a known position and calculate their flight path based on heading, groundspeed, elapsed time, and the effects of wind. By understanding wind speed and direction, a pilot can adjust their flight plan to predict their actual groundspeed and estimated time en route. Additionally, knowledge of aircraft performance helps determine how much fuel will be used during the flight based on weight, altitude, and airspeed.

This method is particularly important in situations where instruments or external navigation aids may not be available, emphasizing the need for a thorough understanding of aircraft performance and environmental factors, such as wind. While GPS data provides precise positions and is a powerful tool for navigation, dead reckoning is inherently based on these traditional principles of navigation, which have been essential in aviation for many years.