Convert Kilometers to Nautical Miles
1 km = 0.539957 nmi
Conversion Table
| kilometers (km) | nautical miles (nmi) |
|---|---|
| 0.5 | 0.269978 |
| 1 | 0.539957 |
| 2 | 1.0799 |
| 5 | 2.6998 |
| 10 | 5.3996 |
| 25 | 13.4989 |
| 50 | 26.9978 |
| 100 | 53.9957 |
| 250 | 134.99 |
| 500 | 269.98 |
| 1000 | 539.96 |
How to Convert kilometers to nautical miles
To convert kilometers to nautical miles, multiply the value by the conversion factor:
For example: 10 km = 5.3996 nmi
About kilometers and nautical miles
The Conversion Formula
To convert kilometers to nautical miles, multiply the value by the conversion factor: 1 km = 0.539957 nmi. For a worked example, suppose you need to convert 25 km to nautical miles: 25 × 0.539957 = 13.4989 nmi. To convert in the opposite direction, divide by 0.539957, or equivalently multiply by 1.852.
About kilometers
The kilometer (km) is the standard unit for measuring geographic distances in most of the world. Adopted alongside the original metric system in France, it quickly replaced traditional units like leagues and versts. It is exactly 1,000 meters. The prefix 'kilo-' comes from the Greek word 'chilioi', meaning thousand. Today, it is used for everything from road signs and speed limits to calculating orbital altitudes of satellites. kilometers are commonly used in Road signs and maps, Vehicle odometers, Long-distance running (5k, 10k), and Astronomy (planetary radii), Flight altitudes (in metric countries).
The Golden Gate Bridge spans about 2.7 kilometers.
About nautical miles
The nautical mile is distinct from the statute mile, designed specifically for navigation. It was originally defined as one minute of latitude along any meridian, making it directly compatible with map coordinates. This allowed sailors to measure distance using the stars and a sextant. In 1929, it was standardized to exactly 1,852 meters. It is the basis for the 'knot' (one nautical mile per hour). nautical miles are commonly used in Ship navigation, Aircraft flight planning, International law (territorial waters), and Polar exploration, Meteorological forecasts.
A nautical mile is about 15% longer than a standard land mile.
When Would You Convert kilometers to nautical miles?
Converting between kilometers and nautical miles is one of the most common length conversions. You might need this conversion when working with international specifications, following instructions written for a different measurement system, or comparing values across different standards. Having the conversion factor (1 km = 0.539957 nmi) memorized or bookmarked can save time in professional and everyday contexts alike.