How to Read Aero Sectional Charts
Aeronautical sectional charts are for fixed wing aircraft that fly under Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Visual Flight Rules (VFR). These rules govern flying by sight. Under VFR, a pilot plots a course along a route that allows confirmation of location via visual elements on the ground. Thus, sectional charts are filled with surface data that help the pilot to do this in a safe and responsible manner. This data can be collected into nine categories of critical information: topography, obstructions, text, airports and airport data, airspace, communication, compass and miscellaneous.
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Instructions
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Topography, obstructions, text: Because sectionals are meant for the VFR pilot, topography and obstructions that may affect VFR flight are noted on the charts. Features of elevation, water, railroad tracks, major roadways and obstructions such as water towers or communication towers help a pilot plan for a proper flight altitude and route. Text on the chart labels major features and locations.
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Airports and airport data: Airport locations and information are also noted. This includes major airports and smaller fields that are scattered about the countryside. Data for airports such as runway lengths and communication frequencies are also a major feature of these charts.
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Airspace: Airspace is also clearly indicated. This is airspace in the area immediately around and above an airport and approach and departure corridors to and from an airport. This feature of sectional charts maps the different altitudes reserved for different types of planes and will tell a pilot the altitude of the floor and ceiling of these areas. The maps also indicate areas of restricted airspace and military areas where commercial and private pilots are not to fly.
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Communication: Pilots rely heavily on radio aids in navigating airspace. This information is provided in addition to the communication items in the airport data. Radio aids such as VOR, VORTAC and DME are shown with frequency information and Morse code identifiers.
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Miscellaneous and Compass: Miscellaneous markings indicate where activities such as hot-air ballooning, sky diving or hang gliding may take place. Pilots avoid these areas for safety reasons. Compasses on aeronautical sectional charts indicate cardinal directions.
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Tips & Warnings
You need a great deal of training and experience to digest the material and apply it in practical flight situations. The FAA closely regulates the competency of certified pilots. The FAA also produces many study aids, and there are many commercial aids available to prepare those interested in securing a pilot's license in the United States.
