Knot
A knot is a unit of speed commonly used in maritime and air transport, equal to one nautical mile per hour. It is used to measure how fast a vessel or aircraft is moving over water or through the air. Because nautical miles are based on the Earth’s latitude and longitude, knots are especially practical for navigation. This makes them a global standard in shipping and aviation.
In shipping, a vessel’s speed is always expressed in knots, helping operators calculate voyage time, fuel consumption, and arrival schedules. For example, if a ship travels at 15 knots, it covers 15 nautical miles in one hour. In aviation, knots are used to measure airspeed and ground speed, ensuring consistency across international flight operations. Using knots keeps navigation aligned with charts and GPS systems.
Understanding knots is required for effective planning and coordination across transportation operations. Speed has a direct impact on fuel consumption, operational efficiency, and transit times. Carriers, pilots, and port authorities can communicate effectively and avoid confusion in international transportation movements by using a standardized unit like knots.
Frequently Asked Questions about Knot
Clear answers to the most common questions people have when learning about Knot.
Knots are based on nautical miles, which align with Earth’s coordinates, making them more accurate and practical for navigation at sea and in the air.
One knot equals approximately 1.85 kilometers per hour or 1.15 miles per hour.
No. Knots are used in both the maritime and aviation industries as the standard unit for measuring speed.