What is an advantage of using a Great Circle route?

Choosing a Great Circle route offers the significant advantage of a shorter distance over water. When plotting a course between two points on the globe, the Great Circle represents the shortest path available, as it accounts for the Earth's curvature. This is particularly important in maritime navigation, where efficiency in travel and reducing the time at sea can be crucial for operational effectiveness.

In contrast, while other options may have their merits—such as improved accuracy or reduced fuel consumption—the primary reason for opting for a Great Circle route is the reduction in distance traveled. This shortens the overall journey, which can lead to faster travel times and potentially lower fuel costs, though the direct relationship is specifically tied to distance. The Great Circle route may not always be the easiest to follow due to its complexities compared to a straight line on a flat map, but its efficiency in covering distance stands out as the most compelling reason for its use in navigation.