Which projection is used for accurately measuring air route distances?

The Azimuthal Equidistant projection is particularly well-suited for accurately measuring distances, especially for air route navigation. This projection maintains consistent scale along specific lines radiating from a central point, which allows for precise distance calculations from the center point to any other point on the map. This is especially useful for air traffic controllers and pilots who need to determine the most efficient flight paths over large distances.

In contrast, while the Mercator projection is famous for its ease of navigation and straight-line plotting, it significantly distorts distances and areas, especially as one moves away from the equator. The Robinson projection provides a visually appealing representation of the world but does not preserve distance or direction; it is more for general presentation and thematic purposes, not for precise measurements. The Lambert Conformal Conic projection is excellent for mapping mid-latitude regions and maintaining angles, but it does not provide the equidistant property necessary for accurate distance measurements. Thus, the Azimuthal Equidistant projection stands out as the most appropriate choice for measuring air route distances effectively.