On runway RWY 18, what is the approximate heading indicated on the compass?

To determine the approximate heading indicated on the compass for runway RWY 18, it's essential to understand runway numbering. Runways are numbered based on their magnetic heading, rounded to the nearest ten degrees. A runway numbered 18 indicates a magnetic heading of approximately 180 degrees.

The answer indicating 185° is the correct choice because it reflects a slight variation from the exact magnetic heading of 180°. In practice, factors such as magnetic declination or the specific orientation of the runway relative to true north could result in a compass reading that is slightly off from the whole number associated with the runway, hence showing 185° as a reasonable interpretation of the compass reading for RWY 18.

This choice acknowledges the practical scenarios pilots might encounter where visual cues and instrument readings may not perfectly align with the standardized runway numbering system, allowing for small headings to be integral in navigation accuracy.