Vectors in component form are always measured in the same way as Cartesian coordinates, relative to the x- and y-axes. Bearings are always measured from the y-axis.
This solution does not place the problem on a Cartesian plane, but rather uses vectors to solve it. However, vectors are already Cartesian in nature, so in a sense you could think of it as a Cartesian solution.
when resolving vectors in component for must the bearings be taken from the positive x-axis
Vectors in component form are always measured in the same way as Cartesian coordinates, relative to the x- and y-axes. Bearings are always measured from the y-axis.
elegantly explained, thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
I assume the resultant angle minus the initial aircraft angle is the wind correction angle?
Yes, that is correct.
Was this the Cartesian solution?
This solution does not place the problem on a Cartesian plane, but rather uses vectors to solve it. However, vectors are already Cartesian in nature, so in a sense you could think of it as a Cartesian solution.