MiqatAir
Guides

Qibla direction

How does Qibla direction work on a plane?

An aircraft is constantly moving and may turn during the journey. The direction of the cockpit is not the same thing as the direction of the Qibla, so a reading can change as the route and heading change.

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MiqatAir app screen — Qibla direction
Actual MiqatAir 1.9.0 screen · example journey
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The cockpit and the Qibla are different references

Qibla direction is linked to the position from which it is calculated. An aircraft’s forward direction depends on its heading at that time. The Qibla may therefore appear ahead, to one side or behind the cabin as the journey progresses.

A turn can alter the relative direction even if only a short time has passed since the previous reading.

What the MiqatAir compass shows

MiqatAir offers Qibla guidance relative to the aircraft’s forward direction at a selected time, based on available route information.

The display is intended to help planning. It should not be interpreted as a continuously observed heading when the route or aircraft position is estimated.

Keep safety and uncertainty in mind

Refresh journey data when possible. If the itinerary changes or data is incomplete, treat the guidance as indicative rather than exact.

Always follow crew instructions. For religious questions specific to your circumstances, consult a qualified trusted source.

Frequently asked questions

Does Qibla point to the same place inside the cabin for the entire flight?

No. The aircraft’s position and heading may change.

What does the in-app compass represent?

Qibla relative to the aircraft’s forward direction using available flight-route information.

Can I rely on an estimated route as live positioning?

No. Estimated information should be treated as provisional.

Prepare for your next flight.

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