Official Aviation Definition
A nautical mile (NM) is a unit of length defined internationally as exactly 1,852 meters (approximately 6,076.1 feet or 1.1508 statute miles). It historically represents one minute of arc along any meridian of latitude on Earth, making it ideal for marine and aerospace spherical geometry.
In Simple Words
The standard distance measurement in aviation, slightly longer than a regular land mile (1 NM = 1.15 regular miles or 1.85 kilometers).
Real-World Flight Example
The direct route distance from New York JFK to London Heathrow is approximately 3,000 nautical miles.