In a previous article, Kyler Laird said:
Anyone know for sure whether or not this is an accurate way of
depicting Great Circle paths in the conUS?

No. Straight lines on Lambert Conformal maps are not great circles. We
use it normally because within one section it doesn't make a huge
difference, but if you're crossing several, the errors add up.


--
Paul Tomblin http://xcski.com/blogs/pt/
"Pilots are reminded to ensure that all surly bonds are slipped before
attempting taxi or take-off"