Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Practice Exam 2026 – The All-in-One Guide to Master Your IFR Certification!

The force that causes wind to deflect to the right in the Northern Hemisphere is the Coriolis force. This phenomenon arises from the rotation of the Earth and affects the movement of air masses across the planet. As wind moves, it is influenced by the Earth's rotation, which causes it to veer right due to the counterclockwise spin of the Earth in the Northern Hemisphere.

The Coriolis effect is crucial for understanding weather patterns and the behavior of the atmosphere. It plays a significant role in the development of cyclones and anticyclones, influencing their rotation and direction. For pilots and navigators, comprehending the Coriolis effect is key to anticipating wind patterns and adjusting flight paths during instrument flight.

While pressure gradients are essential in initiating wind flow and centrifugal force can influence air movement in rotating systems, they do not specifically cause the rightward deflection observed in wind patterns. Friction can affect wind speed and direction but is not the primary force responsible for the Coriolis effect.