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FAA Aeronautical Chart Users Guide (Jan 2026)
Reproduced for study. Always verify against the official GACAR at gaca.gov.sa.
Aeronautical Information Services
Aeronautical Chart
Users’ Guide
Effective as of 22 January 2026Federal A viation
Administration
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................ 3
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 6
KEEP YOUR CHARTS CURRENT ............................................................................................. 6
EFFECTIVE DATE OF CHART USERS’ GUIDE AND UPDATES ............................................... 6
COLOR VARIATION .................................................................................................................... 6
REPORTING CHART DISCREPANCIES .................................................................................... 6
WHAT’S NEW? ..................................................................................................... 8
VFR CHARTS .............................................................................................................................. 8
IFR ENROUTE CHARTS ............................................................................................................ 8
TERMINAL PROCEDURE PUBLICATION (TPP) ....................................................................... 8
EXPLANATION OF VFR TERMS AND SYMBOLS ............................................ 10
WATER FEATURES (HYDROGRAPHY) .................................................................................. 10
LAND FEATURES (TERRAIN) AND OBSTRUCTIONS ............................................................ 10
LAND FEATURES - MOUNTAIN PASSES ................................................................................ 13
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION ................................................................................................. 14
AIRPORTS ................................................................................................................................ 14
AIRSPACE ................................................................................................................................. 16
FOREIGN AREAS ..................................................................................................................... 19
TERMINAL AREA CHART (TAC) COVERAGE ......................................................................... 20
INSET AND SPECIAL CHART COVERAGE ............................................................................. 20
CHART TABULATIONS ............................................................................................................. 20
VFR SECTIONAL AND TERMINAL AREA CHARTS ........................................ 23
AIRPORTS ................................................................................................................................ 23
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION ................................................................................................. 25
AIRSPACE INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 26
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION ............................................................ 32
CULTURE .................................................................................................................................. 34
HYDROGRAPHY ...................................................................................................................... 37
RELIEF ...................................................................................................................................... 40
VFR FLYWAY PLANNING CHARTS .................................................................. 43
GENERAL INFORMATION ........................................................................................................ 43
AIRPORTS ................................................................................................................................ 43
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION ................................................................................................. 43
AIRSPACE INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 44
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION ............................................................ 47
CULTURE .................................................................................................................................. 48
BOUNDARIES ........................................................................................................................... 48
HYDROGRAPHY ...................................................................................................................... 48
RELIEF ...................................................................................................................................... 48
3FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HELICOPTER ROUTE CHARTS ........................................................................ 50
GENERAL INFORMATION ........................................................................................................ 50
AIRPORTS ................................................................................................................................ 50
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION ................................................................................................. 51
AIRSPACE INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 52
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION ............................................................ 55
CULTURE .................................................................................................................................. 56
CARIBBEAN VFR AERONAUTICAL CHARTS (CAC) ...................................... 58
AIRSPACE .......................................................................................................... 60
EXPLANATION OF IFR ENROUTE TERMS ...................................................... 63
AIRPORTS ................................................................................................................................ 63
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION ................................................................................................. 65
AIRSPACE INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 67
INSTRUMENT AIRWAYS .......................................................................................................... 68
FOREIGN AREAS ..................................................................................................................... 73
TERRAIN CONTOURS ON AREA CHARTS ............................................................................. 73
AIRPORTS ................................................................................................................................ 75
IFR ENROUTE LOW / HIGH ALTITUDE SYMBOLS (U.S., PACIFIC AND ALASKA
CHARTS) ............................................................................................................ 75
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION ................................................................................................. 76
AIRSPACE INFORMATION ....................................................................................................... 81
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION ............................................................ 94
CULTURE .................................................................................................................................. 95
HYDROGRAPHY ...................................................................................................................... 95
TOPOGRAPHY ......................................................................................................................... 95
U.S. TERMINAL PROCEDURES PUBLICATION .............................................. 97
EXPLANATION OF TPP TERMS AND SYMBOLS ................................................................... 97
INSTRUMENT APPROACH PROCEDURE CHART ................................................................. 98
PLANVIEW .............................................................................................................................. 105
PROFILE VIEW ....................................................................................................................... 116
LANDING MINIMUMS ............................................................................................................. 120
AIRPORT DIAGRAMS ............................................................................................................ 122
DEPARTURE PROCEDURES (DPs) ...................................................................................... 124
STANDARD TERMINAL ARRIVAL (STARs) CHARTS ............................................................ 125
CHARTED VISUAL FLIGHT PROCEDURE (CVFP) CHARTS ............................................... 125
U.S. TERMINAL PROCEDURES PUBLICATION SYMBOLS ......................... 126
GENERAL INFORMATION ...................................................................................................... 126
PLANVIEW SYMBOLS ............................................................................................................ 126
PROFILE VIEW ....................................................................................................................... 128
STANDARD TERMINAL ARRIVAL (STAR) CHARTS .............................................................. 129
4FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEPARTURE PROCEDURE (DP) CHARTS ........................................................................... 130
AIRPORT DIAGRAM/AIRPORT SKETCH .............................................................................. 131
APPROACH LIGHTING SYSTEM ........................................................................................... 132
REFERENCES .................................................................................................. 135
ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................................................. 137
5FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION
This Chart Users’ Guide is an introduction to the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) aeronautical charts and publica -
tions. It is useful to new pilots as a learning aid, and to experienced pilots as a quick reference guide.
The FAA is the source for all data and information utilized in the publishing of aeronautical charts through authorized pub -
lishers for each stage of Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) air navigation including training, plan -
ning, departures, enroute (for low and high altitudes), approaches, and taxiing charts. Digital charts are available online at:
• VFR Charts
• IFR Charts
• Terminal Procedures Publication
• Chart Supplements
Paper copies of the charts are available through an FAA Approved Print Provider. A complete list of current providers is
available at http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/print_providers /.
The FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) Pilot/Controller Glossary defines all terms and abbreviations used
throughout this publication. Unless otherwise indicated, miles are nautical miles (NM), altitudes indicate feet above Mean
Sea Level (MSL), and times used are Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) alert pilots to time-critical aeronautical information that is either temporary or not sufficiently
known in advance to permit publication on aeronautical charts or in other operational publications. Pilots can access
NOTAM information via Flight Service Stations (FSS) or online via NOTAM Search at https://notams.aim.faa.gov/notam -
Search/ .
In addition to NOTAMs, the Safety Alerts/Charting Notices page of the Aeronautical Information Services website is also
useful to pilots.
KEEP YOUR CHARTS CURRENT
Aeronautical information changes rapidly, so it is impor -
tant that pilots check the effective dates on each aeronau -
tical chart and publication. To avoid danger, it is important
to always use current editions and discard obsolete
charts and publications.
To confirm that a chart or publication is current, refer to
the next scheduled edition date printed on the cover. In
addition to the published edition dates, the time 0901Z is
specified as the changeover time for updated aeronauti -
cal information and products in the United States. The
0901Z time of day, selected due to its historically lower
overall volume of air traffic, is crucial for both pilots and
air traffic controllers to ensure all aircraft are using the
same current chart or publication.
Pilots should also check NOTAMs for important updates
between chart and publication cycles that are essential
for safe flight.
EFFECTIVE DATE OF CHART USERS’ GUIDE
AND UPDATES
All information in this guide is effective as of 22 January
2026 . All graphics used in this guide are for educational
purposes. Chart symbology may not be to scale. Please
do not use them for flight navigation. COLOR VARIATION
Although the digital files are compiled in accordance with
charting specifications, the final product may vary slightly in
appearance due to differences in printing techniques/pro -
cesses and/or digital display techniques.
REPORTING CHART DISCREPANCIES
Your experience as a pilot is valuable and your feedback is
important. We make every effort to display accurate informa -
tion on all FAA charts and publications, so we appreciate
your input. Please notify us concerning any requests for
changes, or potential discrepancies you see while using our
charts and related products.
FAA, Aeronautical Information Services
Telephone Toll-Free 1-800-638-8972
Aeronautical Inquires: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/
flight_info/aeronav/aero_data/Aeronautical_Inquiries/
6FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Introduction
7FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Introduction
WHAT’S NEW?
Update as of 22 January 2026
The following charting items have been added to the Chart Users’ Guide since the Guide was last published on 12 June
2025:
VFR CHARTS
No Significant Changes Applied
IFR ENROUTE CHARTS
Alaska Capstone Routes (R Routes) on Alaska Enroute Low Altitude Charts :
Starting with the August 7, 2025 publication date, Capstone (R Routes) were published on the L-1 Alaska Enroute Low
Chart. The Capstone program is an initiative to enhance safety and improve the efficient use of the navigable airspace in
Alaska. The R Routes and associated notes are published in green to differentiate them from other types of routes in the
area. See Chart Users’ Guide p.72 .
TERMINAL PROCEDURE PUBLICATION (TPP)
Updated Comparable Values of RVR and Visibility Table :
On the October 2, 2025 publication date, a change was made to the TPP Legend Terms/Landing Minima Data page.
Additional guidance for making visibility adjustments was added to the Comparable Values of RVR and Visibility section.
Additionally, to ensure compliance with 14 CFR 91.175, the RVR values that are published in the CFR are called out in the
TPP table. See Chart Users’ Guide p.1 20.
Removal of Redundant Communication Data on Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) Charts :
Beginning with the October 2, 2025 publication date, locations that have a published Airport Diagram will no longer chart
Departure ATIS, CLNC DEL, or CPDLC on the IAP charts ( Charting Notice 25-06 ).
8FAA Chart Users’ Guide - What’s New
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - What’s New
EXPLANATION OF VFR TERMS AND SYMBOLS
This chapter covers the Sectional Aeronautical Chart (Sectional). These charts include the most current data at a scale
of (1:500,000), which is large enough to be read easily by pilots flying by sight under V isual Flight Rules. Sectionals are
named after a major city within its area of coverage.
The chart legend includes aeronautical symbols and information about drainage, terrain, the contour of the land, and
elevation. You can learn to identify aeronautical, topographical, and obstruction symbols (such as radio and television tow -
ers) by using the legend.
A brief description next to a small black square indicates the exact location for many of the landmarks easily recognized
from the air, such as stadiums, pumping stations, refineries, etc. A small black open circle with descriptive type indicates
oil, gas or mineral wells. A small black circle with descriptive type indicates water, oil or gas tanks. The scale for some
items may be increased to make them easier to read on the chart.
Aeronautical Information Services' charts are prepared in accordance with specifications of the Interagency Air Committee
(IAC) and are approved by representatives of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Defense
(DoD).
WATER FEATURES (HYDROGRAPHY)
Water features are depicted using two tones of blue, and are considered either "Open Water" or
"Inland Water." "Open Water," a lighter blue tone, shows the shoreline limitations of all coastal water
features at the average (mean) high water levels for oceans and seas. Light blue also represents the
connecting waters like bays, gulfs, sounds and large estuaries.
Exceptionally large lakes like the Great Lakes, Great Salt Lake, and Lake Okeechobee, etc., are considered Open Water
features. The Open Water tone extends inland as far as necessary to adjoin the darker blue "Inland Water" tones. All other
bodies of water are marked as "Inland Water" in the darker blue tone.
LAND FEATURES (TERRAIN) AND OBSTRUCTIONS
The elevation and configuration of the Earth's surface is important to pilots. Our Aeronautical Information Specialists are
devoted to showing the contour of the earth and any obstructions clearly and accurately on our charts. W e use five differ -
ent techniques: contour lines, shaded relief, color tints, obstruction symbols, and Maximum Elevation Figures (MEF).
1. Contour lines join points of equal elevation. On Sectionals, basic contours are spaced at
500' intervals. Intermediate contours are typically at 250' intervals in moderately level or
gently rolling areas. Auxiliary contours at 50', 100', 125', or 150' intervals occasionally
show smaller relief features in areas of relatively low relief. The pattern of these lines
and their spacing gives the pilot a visual concept of the terrain. Widely spaced contours represent gentle slopes,
while closely spaced contours represent steep slopes.
2. Shaded relief shows how terrain may appear from the air. Shadows are shown as if light is
coming from the northwest, because studies have shown that our visual perception has
been conditioned to this view.
10FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols3. Different color tints show bands of elevation relative to sea level. These colors range from light green
for the lower elevations, to dark brown for the higher elevations.
4. Obstruction symbols show man made vertical features that could affect safe navigation. The FAA
maintains a database of obstacles. Aeronautical Specialists evaluate each obstacle based on chart -
ing specifications before adding it to a a visual chart. When a Specialist is not able
to verify the position or elevation of an obstacle, it is marked UC, meaning it is "under construction"
or being reported, but has not been verified.
The FAA uses a Digital Obstacle File (DOF) to collect and disseminate data. Because land and obstructions
frequently change, the source data on obstructions and terrain is occasionally incomplete or not accurate
enough for use in aeronautical publications. For example, when the F AA receives notification about an ob -
struction, and there is insufficient detail to determine its position and elevation, the F AA Flight Edit Program
conducts an investigation.
The Flight Edit crew visually verifies the cultural, topographic, and obstacle data. Charts are generally flight-
checked every four years. This review includes checking for any obstruction that has been recently built,
altered, or dismantled without proper notification.
Wind Turbines.Obstacles 1000’ AGL
or greater.Obstacles less than
1000’ AGL. Sectional Charts and Terminal Area (TACs) typically show man-made obstacles
extending more than 200' Above Ground Level (AGL), or more than 299' AGL in yellow
city tint. Obstacles may be lit or unlit. Features considered to be hazardous obstacles
to low-level flight are; smokestacks, tanks, factories, lookout towers, antennas, and
wind turbines, etc.
Man-made features used by FAA Air Traffic Control as checkpoints use a graphic symbol shown in black
with the required elevation data in blue. The elevation of the top of the obstacle above Mean Sea Level
(MSL) and the height of the structure (AGL) is also indicated (when known or can be reliably determined by
a Specialist). The AGL height is in parentheses below the MSL elevation. In extremely congested areas, the
FAA typically omits the AGL values to avoid confusion.
Group Obstacle SymbolWhenever possible, the FAA depicts specific obstacles on charts. However, in high-density areas
like city complexes, only the highest obstacle is represented on the chart using the group obstacle
symbol to maximize legibility.
If space is available the AGL
height of the obstruction is
shown in parentheses.Obstacles under construction are indicated by placing the letters UC adjacent to the obstacle type.
Guy wires may
extend outward
from obstacles.Wind turbines
with high intensity
lighting.Obstacles with high-intensity strobe lighting systems may operate part-time or by proximity
activation and are shown as follows:
2894 UCConcentrated obstructions of wind turbine farms shall be portrayed by an overlying hatched area and
dotted outline to represent the approximate parameters of the farm. One or more single turbine
symbols will populate the farm. A boxed elevation figure representing the MSL elevation of the highest
wind turbine within the area shall be placed inside the farm or, if space is limited, just outside. Pilots
are reminded that wind turbine blades and/or blade tips are not lighted. Wind turbine obstruction
lights are located on top of the nacelle (generator) at the hub of wind turbines, which in some cases
can be 200-300’ below the rotating blade tips.
5. The Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF) represents the highest elevation within a quadrant,
including terrain and other vertical obstacles (towers, trees, etc.). A quadrant on Sectionals
is the area bounded by ticked lines dividing each 30 minutes of latitude and each 30
minutes of longitude. MEF figures are rounded up to the nearest 100' value and the last
two digits of the number are not shown.
MEFs over land and open water areas are used in areas containing man-made obstacles such as oil rigs.
In the determination of MEFs, the FAA uses extreme care to calculate the values based on the existing elevation data
shown on source material. Aeronautical Information Specialists use the following procedure to calculate MEFs:
MEF - Man-made Obstacle
When a man-made obstacle is more than 200' above the highest terrain within the quadrant:
1. Determine the elevation of the top of the obstacle above MSL.
2. Add the possible vertical error of the source material to the above figure (100’ or 1/2 contour interval when inter -
val on source exceeds 200’. U.S. Geological Survey Quadrangle Maps with contour intervals as small as 10’ are
normally used).
3. Round the resultant figure up to the next higher hundred-foot level.
Example:
Elevation of obstacle top (MSL) 2649
Possible obstacle error +100
equals 2749
Raise to the following 100’ level 2800
Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF)
12FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and SymbolsMEF - Natural Terrain Feature or Natural Vertical Obstacle
When a natural terrain feature or natural vertical obstacle (e.g. a tree) is the highest feature within the quadrangle:
1. Determine the elevation of the feature.
2. Add the possible vertical error of the source to the above figure (100’ or 1/2 the contour interval when interval on
source exceeds 200’).
3. Add a 200’ allowance for uncharted natural or
manmade obstacles. Chart specifications don’t
require the portrayal of obstacles below minimum
height.
4. Round the figure up to the next higher hundred-
foot level.
Example:
Elevation of obstacle top (MSL) 13161
Possible vertical error +100
Obstacle Allowance +200
equals 13461
Raise to the following 100’ level 13500
Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF)
Pilots should be aware that while the MEF is based on the best information available to the Specialist, the figures are not
verified by field surveys. Also, users should consult the Aeronautical Information Services website to ensure that your
chart has the latest MEF data available.
LAND FEATURES - MOUNTAIN PASSES
The Mountain Pass symbol does not indicate
a recommended route or direction of flight, and pass
elevation does not indicate a recommended clearance
altitude. Hazardous flight conditions may exist within
and near mountain passes. For high-traffic mountain
passes, VFR Checkpoints may be provided to increase
situational awareness by indicating key landmarks inside
confined terrain. A collocated VFR Waypoint and Check -
point may be provided to assist with identifying natural
entry points for commonly flown mountain passes.
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION
On VFR Charts, information about radio aids to navigation (NAVAID) are boxed, as illustrated. Duplication of data is
avoided. When two or more radio aids in a general area have the
same name with different frequencies, Tactical Air Navigation
(TACAN) channel numbers, or identification letters, and no
misinterpretation can result, the name of the radio aid may be
indicated only once within the identification box. Very High
Frequency/Ultra High Frequency (VHF/UHF) NAVAID names
and identification boxes (shown in blue) take precedence. Only
those items that differ (e.g., frequency, Morse Code) are repeated in the box in the appropriate color. The choice of
separate or combined boxes is made in each case on the basis of economy of space and clear identification of the radio
aids.
A NAVAID that is physically located on an airport may not always be represented as a
typical NAVAID symbol. A small open circle indicates the NAVAID location when
collocated with an airport icon.
The type of NAVAID will be identified by: "VOR," (VHF Omni-Directional Range)
"VORTAC" (VOR Tactical Aircraft Control), "VOR-DME," (VOR-Distance Measuring
Equipment) or “DME” (Distance Measuring Equipment) positioned on and breaking
the top line of the NAVAID box.
DMEs are shown without the compass rose.
AIRPORTS
Airports in the following categories are charted as indicated (additional symbols are shown later in this Section).
Public use airports:
Hard-surfaced runways greater than 8069’ or some multiple runways less than 8069’
Hard-surfaced runways 1500’ to 8069’
Other than hard-surfaced runways
Seaplane bases
Military airports:
Other than hard-surfaced runways
Foreign airports:
Hard-surfaced runways are depicted the same as public-use airports.
U.S. military airports are identified by abbreviations such as AAF (Army Air Field), AFB (Air Force Base), MCAS (Marine
Corps Air Station), NAS (Naval Air Station), NAV (Naval Air Facility), and NAAS (Naval Auxiliary Air Station).
Fuel Available:
Fuel availability indicated by use of tick marks around the basic airport symbol. Consult Chart Supplement for
details and availability.
Other airports with or without fuel:
14FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and SymbolsAirports are plotted in their true geographic position unless the symbol conflicts with a NA VAID at the same location. In
such cases, the airport symbol will be displaced, but the relationship between the airport and the NAVAID will be retained.
When a waypoint is collocated with a towered airport, the waypoint symbol will not be charted and the waypoint name
followed by (WP) will be shown leadered to the waypoint true location. When depicting a seaplane base, the eye of the
anchor symbol will be charted as close to the docking area as possible, with the remainder of the symbol in the water.
Airports are identified by their official FAA designated name.
UNICOM
The elevation of an airport is the highest point on the usable portion of the landing areas.
Runway length is the length of the longest active runway, including displaced thresholds
and excluding overruns. Runway length is shown to the nearest 100', using 70 as the
rounding point; a runway 8070' in length is charted as 81, while a runway 8069' in length is
charted as 80. If an airport has waterways, it will be indicated by a seaplane base symbol
and additional elevation, lighting, and length information under primary airport information.
Flight Service Station on field Elevation in feet
Airports where fixed wing special VFR
operations are prohibited (shown above
airport name) FAR 91Lighting in operation Sunset to Sunrise
Indicates FAR 93 Special Air Traffic
Rules and Airport Traffic PatternLighting limitations exist; refer to Chart Supple -
ment
Location Identifier Length of longest runway in hundreds of feet;
usable length may be less
ICAO Location Identifier Aeronautical advisory station
Control Tower (CT) - primary frequency Runways with Right Traffic Patterns (public use)
Star indicates operation part-time. See
tower frequencies tabulation for hours of
operationSee Chart Supplement
Follows the Common Traffic Advisory
Frequency (CTAF)VFR Advisory Service Shown when ATIS is
not available and frequency is other than the
primary CT frequency
Automatic Terminal Information Services Weather Camera (Alaska)
Automatic Flight Information Service Airport of Entry
Automated Surface Weather Observing
Systems; shown when full-time ATIS is
not availableWhen information is lacking, the respective
character is replaced by a dash. Lighting codes
refer to runway edge lights and may not repre -
sent the longest runway or full length lighting.
Airports with Control Towers (CT) and their related data are shown in blue. All other airports and their related data are
shown in magenta. The
symbol indicates that runway lights are on from dusk to dawn.
indicates that the pilot must
consult the Chart Supplement to determine runway lighting limitations, such as: available on request (by radio-call, letter,
phone, etc), part-time lighting, or pilot/airport controlled lighting. Lighting codes refer to runway edge lights. The lighted
runway may not be the longest runway available, and lights may not be illuminated along the full length of the runway. The
Chart Supplement has a detailed description of airport and air navigation lighting aids for each airport. A dash represents
no runway edge lights.
The symbol
indicates the existence of a rotating or flashing airport beacon operating from dusk to dawn. The Aeronau -
tical Information Manual (AIM) thoroughly explains the types and uses of airport lighting aids.
Right traffic information is shown using the abbreviation 'RP' for right pattern, followed by the appropriate runway
number(s) (RP 18). Special conditions or restrictions to the right pattern are indicated by the use of an asterisk (*RP) to
direct the pilot to the Chart Supplement for special instructions and/or restrictions.
The type “OBJECTIONABLE” associated with an airport symbol indicates that an objectionable airspace determination
has been made for the airport per FAA JO 7400.2 Section 4, Airport Charting and Publication of Airport Data. Objection -
able airspace determinations are based upon a number of factors including conflicting traffic patterns with another airport,
hazardous runway conditions, or natural or man-made obstacles in close proximity to the landing area. FAA Regional
Airports Offices are responsible for airspace determinations. Address any challenges to objectionable airspace determina -
tions to your FAA Regional Airports Office.
AIRSPACE
CONTROLLED AIRSPACE
Controlled airspace consists of those areas where some or all aircraft may be subject to air traffic control, such as: Class
A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Class E Surface (SFC) and Class E Airspace.
Class A Airspace within the United States extends from 18,000' up to FL600. While visual charts do not depict Class A, it
is important to note its existence.
Class B Airspace is shown on the Sectional Aeronautical Chart (Sectional) and Terminal Area Chart (TAC).
The MSL ceiling and floor altitudes of each sector are shown in solid blue figures with the last two zeros
omitted. Floors extending "upward from above" a certain altitude are preceded by a (+). Operations at and below these
altitudes are outside of Class B Airspace. Radials and arcs used to define Class B are prominently shown on TACs.
Detailed rules and requirements associated with the particular Class B are shown. The name by which the Class B is
shown as for example.
Class C Airspace is shown on Sectionals and TACs. The MSL ceiling and floor altitudes of each sector are
shown in solid magenta figures with the last two zeros eliminated.
A ceiling value of “T” indicates the ceiling is to, but not including, the floor of the overlying Class B airspace.
Surface.
Class C Airspace is identified by name:
Separate notes, enclosed in magenta boxes, give the approach control frequencies to be used by arriving VFR aircraft to
establish two-way radio communication before entering the Class C (generally within 20 NM):
Class C operating less than continuous is indicated by the following note:
Class D Airspace is identified with a blue dashed line. Class D operating less than continuous is indicated by the follow -
ing note:
Ceilings of Class D are shown as follows:
A minus in front of the figure is used to indicate "from surface to, but not including..."
16FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and SymbolsClass E Surface (SFC) Airspace is symbolized with a magenta dashed line. Class E (SFC) operating less than continu -
ous is indicated by the following note:
Class E Airspace exists at 1200' AGL unless designated otherwise. The lateral and vertical
limits of all Class E, (up to, but not including 18,000') are shown by narrow bands of vignette
on Sectionals and TACs.
Controlled airspace floors of 700' above the ground are defined by a magenta vignette;
floors other than 700' that laterally abut uncontrolled airspace (Class G) are defined by a
blue vignette; differing floors greater than 700' above the ground are annotated by a symbol
and a number indicating the floor.
If the ceiling is less than 18,000' MSL, the value (preceded by the word "ceiling") is shown along the limits of the controlled
airspace. These limits are shown with the same symbol indicated above.
UNCONTROLLED AIRSPACE
Class G Airspace within the United States extends up to 14,500' Mean Sea Level. At and above this altitude is Class E,
excluding the airspace less than 1500' above the terrain and certain special use airspace areas.
SPECIAL USE AIRSPACE
Special Use Airspace (SUA) confines certain flight activities and re -
stricts entry, or cautions other aircraft operating within specific boundar -
ies. Except for Controlled Firing Areas, SUA areas are depicted on VFR
Charts. Controlled Firing Areas are not charted because their activities
are suspended immediately when spotter aircraft, radar, or ground
lookout positions indicate an aircraft might be approaching the area.
Nonparticipating aircraft are not required to change their flight paths.
SUA areas are shown in their entirety (within the limits of the chart),
even when they overlap, adjoin, or when an area is designated within
another area. The areas are identified by type and identifying name/
number, and are positioned either within or immediately adjacent to the
area.
* Alert Areas do not extend into Class A, B, C and D airspace, or Class E airport surface areas.
OTHER AIRSPACE AREAS
Mode C Required Airspace (from the surface to 10,000' MSL) within a 30 NM radius of the primary airport(s) for which a
Class B is designated, is depicted by a solid magenta line. MODE C & ADS-B OUT
30 NM
Mode C is required, but not depicted for operations within and above all Class C up to 10,000' MSL.
Enroute Mode C requirements (at and above 10,000' MSL except in airspace at and below 2500' AGL) are not depicted.
See FAR 91.215 and the AIM.
FAR 93 Airports and heliports under Federal Aviation Regulation 93 (FAR 93), (Special Air Traffic Rules and
Airport Traffic Patterns), are shown by "boxing" the airport name.
FAR 91 Airports where fixed wing special visual flight rules operations are prohibited (F AR 91) are shown
with the type "NO SVFR" above the airport name.
Miscellaneous Activity Areas are indicated with the symbols illustrated on p. 31. The charting of a symbol in the area
of an airport indicates both miscellaneous activity and regular air operations may be present at these locations. Due to
the wide range of hazards associated with these areas, pilots are expected to check NOT AMs prior to flight for additional
information regarding the airspace.
National Security Areas indicated with a broken magenta line
and Special Flight Rules Areas (SFRAs) in -
dicated with the following symbol:
, consist of airspace with defined vertical and lateral dimensions es tab-
lished at locations where there is a requirement for increased security and safety of ground facilities. Pilots should avoid
flying through these depicted areas. When necessary, flight may be temporarily prohibited.
The Washington DC Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) is related to National Security. It is depicted using the Prohibited/
Restricted/Warning Area symbology
and is located within the SFRA. It is defined as the airspace within
approximately a 13 to 15 NM radius of the DCA VOR-DME. Additional requirements are levied upon aviators requesting
access to operate inside the National Capital Region.
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) Areas Relating to National Security are indicated with a broken blue line
. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is a type of Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). A TFR defines an area where
air travel is restricted due to a hazardous condition, a special event, or a general warning for the entire airspace. The text
of the actual TFR contains the fine points of the restriction. It is important to note that only TFRs relating to National Secu -
rity are charted.
Air Defense Identification Zones (ADIZs) are symbolized using the ADIZ symbol: . As defined in Code of
Federal Regulations 14 (CFR 14) Part 99, an ADIZ is an area in which the ready identification, location, and control of all
aircraft is required in the interest of national security. ADIZ boundaries include Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and the Contiguous
U.S.
National Defense Airspace Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) Areas are bounded with cross hatching:
. These areas include airspace that is subject to routine TFRs published as NOTAMs that have a 12+
month duration.
Terminal Radar Service Areas (TRSAs) are shown in their entirety, symbolized by a screened black outline of the entire
area including the various sectors within the area
The outer limit of the entire Terminal Radar Service Areas (TRSA) is a continuous screened black line. The various sec -
tors within the TRSA are symbolized by narrower screened black lines.
Each sector altitude is identified in solid black color by the MSL ceiling and floor values of the respective sector, elimi -
nating the last two zeros. A leader line is used when the altitude values must be positioned outside the respective sec -
tors because of charting space limitations. The TRSA name is shown near the north position of the TRSA as follows:
. Associated frequencies are listed in a table on the chart border.
Military Training Routes (MTRs) are shown on Sectionals and TACs. They are identified by the route designator:
. Route designators are shown in solid black on the route centerline, positioned along the route for
continuity. The designator IR or VR is not repeated when two or more routes are established over the same airspace, e.g.,
IR201-205-227. Routes numbered 001 to 099 are shown as IR1 or VR99, eliminating the initial zeros. Direction of flight
along the route is indicated by small arrowheads adjacent to and in conjunction with each route designator.
The following note appears on Helicopters, Sectionals and TACs except for Hawaiian Islands, which is different.
There are IFR (IR) and VFR (VR) routes as follows:
Route identification:
a. MTRs with no segment above 1500' are identified by four-digit numbers; e.g., VR1007, etc. These routes are
generally developed to be flown under Visual Flight Rules.
b. MTRs that include one or more segments above 1500' AGL are identified by three or fewer digit numbers; e.g.,
IR21, etc. These routes are developed to be flown, to the maximum extent possible under Instrument Flight Rules.
18FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols
FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and SymbolsRoute width varies for each MTR and can extend several miles on either side of the charted MTR centerline. Detailed
route width information is available in the Flight Information Publication (FLIP) AP/1B (a Department of Defense publica -
tion), or through the 56 Day NASR Subscription from the National Flight Data Center (NFDC).
Special Military Activity areas are indicated on Sectionals by an underlying IFR Military Training Route with the lateral
limits of the route shown by a gray Special Use Airspace symbol. A boxed note accompanies the area. The note contains
radio frequency and route identifier information to use for obtaining area activity status.
SPECIAL MILITARY ACTIVITY
FOR IR850, IR851, IR852 CTC BANGOR RADIO
ON 122.4 255.4 FOR ACTIVITY STATUS
The following guidance appears in the margin of applicable Sectional Charts.
The chart identifies IFR Military Training Routes and Military Operations Area within which the Department of Defense
conducts periodic operations involving Unmanned Aircraft Systems. These aircraft may be accompanied by military or
other aircraft which provide the pilots of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems visual observation information about other
aircraft operations near them. Status of these routes and areas may be obtained by contacting the FAA/DoD facility on
designated frequencies along the IFR route, referencing the identifier, e.g., IR214 as depicted on this chart. The lateral
limits of these specified routes are shown by the Special Use Airspace symbol. Altitudes for these route segments are
also shown.SPECIAL MILITARY ACTIVITY
FOREIGN AREAS
The data depicted in areas outside the U.S. is skeletonized on all VFR aeronautical charts. Only major airports, NAVAIDs,
and airways are charted in foreign areas in screened black. Cultural features, hydrographic information and geographic
relief are depicted in subdued and different shades of gray. A note regarding the expectation of the use of foreign charts
and flight information publications is depicted along the boundary .
TERMINAL AREA CHART (TAC) COVERAGE
TAC coverage is shown on appropriate Sectionals by a 1/4" masked line as indicated below. Within this area pilots should
use TACs, which provide greater detail. A note indicating that the area is on the TAC appears near the masked boundary
line.
INSET AND SPECIAL CHART COVERAGE
Inset and Special Chart Coverage (.i.e., Grand Canyon Chart) is shown on appropriate Sectionals by a 1/8" masked line
as indicated below. A note to this effect appears near the masked boundary line. (Additional examples shown in VFR Sec -
tional and Terminal Charts > Navigational and Procedural Information > Chart Limits.)
CHART TABULATIONS
Airport Tower Communications are provided in a columnized tabulation for all tower-controlled airports that appear on
the respective chart. Airport names are listed alphabetically. If the airport is military, the type of airfield, e.g., AAF, AFB,
NAS, is shown after the airfield name. In addition to the airport name, tower operating hours, primary V ery High Fre -
quency/Ultra High Frequency (VHF/UHF) local Control Tower (CT), Ground Control (GND CON), and Automatic Terminal
Information Service (ATIS) frequencies, when available, will be given. Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) and/or Precision
Approach Radar (PAR) procedures are listed when available.
Approach Control Communications are provided in a columnized tabulation listing Class B, Class C, Terminal Radar
Service Areas (TRSA) and Selected Approach Control Facilities when available. Primary VHF/UHF frequencies are pro -
vided for each facility. Sectorization occurs when more than one frequency exists and/or is approach direction dependent.
Availability of service hours is also provided.
Special Use Airspace (SUA): Prohibited, Restricted and Warning Areas are presented in blue and listed numerically
for U.S. and other countries. A tabulation of Alert Areas (listed numerically) and Military Operations Areas (MOA) (listed
alphabetically) appear on the chart in magenta. All are supplemented with altitude, time of use and the controlling agency/
contact facility, and its frequency when available. Users need to be aware that a NOTAM addressing activation will NOT
be issued to announce permanently listed times of use. The controlling agency will be shown when the contact facility and
frequency data is unavailable.
20FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols
FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and SymbolsAirport
Name
Hours of
Operation
(local time)Frequencies (VHF/UHF)
Runway dependent
Approach
direction
dependentRadar Instrument
Approach available
Airspace
Name
VHF/UHF
VHF/UHF{{
{{
VHF
UHF{{Sectors for
VHF and UHF traffic
local time
Sunrise to SunsetFrequencies (VHF/UHF)
Radar
Approach
Control
{
NOT FOR NAVIGATION{
FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols
VFR SECTIONAL AND TERMINAL AREA CHARTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
The symbols shown in this section illustrate those that appear in the Sectional Aeronautical Charts (Sectionals) and
Terminal Area Charts (TACs). The same symbology is utilized in VFR Flyway Planning Charts, Helicopter Route Charts
and Caribbean Aeronautical Charts (CACs), however the scale of the symbols may be different due to the particular chart
scales. Where symbology is distinctive to a given chart, examples and explanations are given in the additional examples.
These charts are updated every 56 days.
AIRPORTS
Landplane: Civil
Non-Towered Towered
Airports having control towers (CT)
are shown in blue, all others are
shown in magenta.
All recognizable runways, including
some that may be closed, are shown
for visual identification purposes. Fuel
available.
Runway patterns will be depicted
at airports with at least one hard
surfaced runway 1500´ or greater in
length.
Landplane: Civil-Military
Landplane: Military Non-Towered Towered
Refueling and repair facilities not
indicated.
Heliport Non-Towered Towered
(Selected)
Foreign
Foreign Airport Note
NOTE: Airports outside the U.S. Flight Information Region (FIR)
are shown with the standard symbol.
Only the airport names and ICAO identifiers are shown.
Non-Towered Towered
Landplane:
Landmark Value
Fuel not available
or
Complete information
is not available.
PUBLIC USE - (Soft surfaced
runway, or hard surfaced runway
less than 1500’ in length.) Fuel
not available.
RESTRICTED OR PRIVATE -
(Soft surfaced runway, or hard
surfaced runway less than 1500’
in length.) Non-public use having
landmark value.
Appropriate note as
required for hard surfaced
runways only: “(CLOSED)” OBJECTIONABLE is an airport
that has an airspace determina -
tion based upon a number of
factors including conflicting traffic
patterns with another airport,
hazardous runway conditions, or
natural or man-made obstacles
in close proximity to the landing
area.
UNVERIFIED - A landing area
available but warranting more
than ordinary precaution due to:
(1) lack of current information on
field conditions,
and/or
(2) available information indi -
cates peculiar operating limita -
tions.
ABANDONED - Depicted for
landmark value or to prevent
confusion with an adjacent us -
able landing area. (Normally at
least 3000’ paved).FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Charts
Ultralight Flight Park
(Selected)
AIRPORTS (Continued)
Seaplane
Airport Data Grouping
Boxed airport name indicates airport for which a Special Traffic
Rule has been established.
(Pvt): Non-public use having landmark value.
“OBJECTIONABLE”: This airport may adversely affect airspace use.Facility No Fuel Facility With Fuel
Non-Towered ToweredFacility With Runway
and Waterway
Non Towered Towered
UNICOM
UNICOM
Flight Service Station on field
Airports where fixed wing special VFR opera -
tions are prohibited (shown above airport
name) FAR 91
Indicates FAR 93 Special Air Traffic Rules and
Airport Traffic Pattern
Location Identifier
ICAO Location Identifier
Control Tower (CT) - primary frequency
Star indicates operation part-time. See tower
frequencies tabulation for hours of operation
Follows the Common Traffic Advisory Fre -
quency (CTAF)
Automatic Terminal Information Services
Automatic Flight Information Service
Automated Surface Weather Observing
Systems; shown when full-time ATIS is not
available.Elevation in feet
Lighting in operation Sunset to Sunrise
Lighting limitations exist; refer to Chart
Supplement
Length of longest runway in hundreds of
feet; usable length may be less.
Aeronautical advisory station
Runways with Right Traffic Patterns (public
use)
See Chart Supplement
VFR Advisory Service Shown when ATIS is
not available and frequency is other than the
primary CT frequency.
Weather Camera (Alaska)
Airport of Entry
When information is lacking. the respective
character is replaced by a dash. Lighting
codes refer to runway edge lights and may
not represent the longest runway or full
length lighting.
24FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION
VOR
Operates less than
contiuous or On-Request
Underline indicates no
voice on this frequency
VORTAC
When an NDB NAVAID
shares the same name
and Morse Code as
the VOR NAVAID the
frequency can be col -
located inside the same
box to conserve space.
VOR-DME
Crosshatch indicates
Shutdown status
DME
DME co-located at an airport
Note: DMEs are shown without the
compass rose.
Compass Rose
Compass Rose is “reference”
oriented to magnetic north
Example of VOR
NAVAID co-located at
airportNon-Directional Radio Beacon (NDB)
NDB-DME
NAVAID Used To Define Class B Airspace
ILS Components
ILS-DME
TAC - Shown when used
in description of Class B
airspace.
Compass Rosette
Shown only in areas void of
VOR roses.
Compass rosette will be
based on the five year epoch
magnetic variation model.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)
Automated Weather Broadcast Services
VHF/UHF LF/MF
Automated Weather Observing System
(AWOS) / Automated Surface Observing
System (ASOS).
Flight Service Station (FSS)
Heavy line box indicates Flight
Service Station (FSS). Frequencies
121.5, 122.2 and 243.0 are avail -
able at many Alaskan FSSs and are
not shown above boxes. All other
frequencies are shown. Frequen -
cies transmit and receive except
those followed by an R.
R - receive onlyOff Airport AWOS/ASOS
Broadcast Stations (BS)
On request by the proper au -
thority or when a VFR Check -
point
Remote Communications Outlet (RCO)
FSS Radio
providing
voice
communications
Frequencies above
thin line box are
remoted to NAVAID
site. Other frequen -
cies at FSS providing
voice communication
may be available
determined by altitude
and terrain. Consult
Chart Supplement for
complete information.
Thin line box with -
out frequencies and
controlling FSS name
indicates no FSS frequency available.
AIRSPACE INFORMATION
Class B Airspace
Sectional
Appropriate notes as required may be shown.
Only the airspace effective below 18,000 feet MSL are shown.
(Mode C see FAR 91.215 / AIM)Terminal Area Chart (TAC)
All mileages are nautical (NM).
All radials are magnetic.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Class C Airspace
Appropriate notes as
required may be shown.
(Mode C see FAR 91.215/
AIM)
Class E Airspace
The limits of Class E
airspace shall be
shown by narrow
vignettes or by the
dashed magenta
symbol. Individual
units of designated
airspace are not
necessarily shown;
instead, the aggre -
gate lateral and vertical limits shall be defined by the following:
Airspace beginning at the surface designated for airports and
extension areas.
Airspace beginning at 700 feet AGL
that laterally abuts 1200 feet or
higher Class E Airspace.
Airspace beginning at 700 feet AGL
that laterally abuts uncontrolled
(Class G) airspace.
Airspace beginning at 1200 feet AGL
that laterally abuts uncontrolled
(Class G) airspace.
Differentiates floors of airspace greater than
700 feet above the surface.
When the ceiling is less than 18,000 feet
MSL, the value prefixed by the word
“CEILING”, shall be shown along the limits.Class D Airspace
Altitude in hundreds of
feet MSL
(A minus in front of the
figure is used to indicate
“from surface to but not
including...”)
Airspace beginning at
the surface designated for
airports and extension
areas.
Airspace beginning at the
surface with an airspace
exclusion area where
Class E airspace is ex -
cluded below 1200’ MSL.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Class E Airspace (Continued)
Low Altitude Airways VOR and LF/MF
(Class E Airspace)
Low altitude Federal Airways are indicated by centerline.
Only the controlled airspace effective below 18,000 feet MSL is
shown
Miscellaneous Air Routes
Combined Federal Airway/RNAV 2 “T” Routes are identified in
solid blue type adjacent to the solid magenta federal airway iden -
tification.
The joint route symbol is screened magenta.
Flight Information Regions (FIR)
MEXICO FIR MMFR
NEW YORK OCEANIC CTA/FIR KZNYWINNIPEG FIR CZWG
OAKLAND OCEANIC
CONTROL AREA
MONTERREY CTA SECTOR 3
Oceanic Control Areas (OCA)
Control Areas (CTA)
Offshore Control Areas
Foreign Airspace Note
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Special Conservation Areas
National Park, Wildlife
Refuge, Primitive and
Wilderness Areas, etc.
Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) Relating to National
Security
Example: Washington DC
Appropriate notes as
required may be shown.
Note: Delimiting line not
shown when it coincides
with International
Boundary, projection lines
or other linear features.
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) Relating to National
Security
Example: Washington DC
Appropriate notes as
required may be shown.NOAA Regulated National
Marine Sanctuary
Designated Areas
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA)
Special Use Airspace
Only the airspace effective
below 18,000 feet MSL is
shown.
The type of area shall be
spelled out in large areas if
space permits.
* Alert Areas do not extend
into Class A, B, C and D
airspace, or Class E airport
surface areas.
Special Air Traffic Rules / Airport Patterns (FAR Part 93)
Appropriate boxed note as required
shown adjacent to area.
Inside the FAR Part 93 boundary
area, the cross hatching is at a 45
degree angle. The hypsometric tint
shall be masked within the area
around the yellow city tint when
applicable (should not be confused
with white glacier tint).Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) Relating to
National Security
National Security Area
FOR REASONS OF NA TIONAL SECURITY
PILOTS ARE REQUESTED T O AVOID FLIGHT
BELOW 1200' MSL IN THIS AREANOTICESmall AreaAppropriate notes as
required may be shown
Special Awareness Training Areas
Mode C (FAR 91.215)
MODE C & ADS-B OUT
30 NMAppropriate notes as
required may be shown.
Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ)
Note: Delimiting line not
shown when it coincides with
International Boundary,
projection lines or other linear
features.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
High Energy Radiation Areas
Appropriate notes as required may
be shown
Military Training Routes (MTR)
Special Military Activity Routes (SMAR)
SPECIAL MILITARY ACTIVITY
FOR IR850, IR851, IR852 CTC BANGOR RADIO
ON 122.4 255.4 FOR ACTIVITY STATUSBoxed notes shown adjacent
to route.
IFR Routes
Arrival
Departure
Arrival/Departure
TAC only
Special Security Notice Permanent Continuous Flight
Restriction Areas
31FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area ChartsSporting Event Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR)
Sites
National Defense Airspace Temporary Flight Restric -
tion (TFR) Areas
Space Operations Area (FAR Part 91.143)
Miscellaneous Activity Areas
Aerobatic Practice Area
Glider Operations
Hang Glider Activity
Ultralight Activity
Unmanned Aircraft Activity
Parachute Jumping Area with Frequency
Space Launch Activity Area
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
VFR Transition Routes
Appropriate notes as required
may be shown.
Uni-directional
Bi-directional
Bi-directional with NAVAID Ident
and Radial
TAC only
Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA)
TRSA Name
TRSA Boundaries
TRSA Sectors
Appropriate notes as required
may be shown.Examlple: Los Angeles
Example: Harrisburg, PA
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION
Isogonic Line and Value
Isogonic lines and values shall
be based on the five year epoch
magnetic variation model.
Local Magnetic Notes
Unreliability Notes
Intersections
Named intersections used as
reporting points. Arrows are
directed toward facilities that
establish intersection.Aeronautical Lights
By Request
Site
Rotating or Oscillating
Isolated Location
Rotating Light with Flashing Code
Identification Light
Rotating Light with Course Lights and
Site Number
32FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
33FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area ChartsAirport Beacons
Rotating or Flashing
Isolated Locations
VFR Checkpoints
Underline indicates proper
name of VFR Checkpoint.
Waypoints
RNAV
VFR Stand-Alone
VFR Collocated with Checkpoint
Obstruction
Above 200’ & below 1000’ AGL
(above 299’ AGL in urban area)
Under Construction (UC) or reported and
position/elevation unverified
1000’ and higher (AGL)
Wind Turbine
High-Intensity Obstruction Lights
Less than 1000’ (AGL)
1000’ and higher (AGL)
Wind Turbine
Group obstruction
Wind Turbines
High-intensity lights may operate part-time
or by proximity activation.Marine Lights
With Characteristics of Light
Red
White
Green
Blue
Orange
Black
Yellow
Sector
Fixed
Single Occulting
Group Occulting
Composite Group Occulting
Isophase
Flashing
Group Flashing
Composite Group Flashing
Quick
Interrupted Quick/Interrupted Quick Flashing
Morse Code
Fixed and Flashing
Alternating
Group
Long Flash
Group Quick Flashing
Very Quick Flashing
Group Very Quick Flashing
Interrupted Very Quick Flashing
Ultra Quick Flashing
Interrupted Ultra Quick Flashing
* Marine Lights are white unless other -
wise noted. Alternating lights are red and white unless
otherwise noted.
Group Obstruction
Above 200’ & below 1000’ AGL
(above 299’ AGL in urban area)
1000’ and higher (AGL)
At least two in group
1000’ and higher (AGL)
Wind Turbines
Wind Turbine Farms
2894 UCWhen highest wind turbine is unverified,
UC will be shown after MSL value.
Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF)
(see VFR Terms tab for explanation)Land LightNAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Chart Limits
Outline on Sectional of Terminal Area Chart
TAC
Outline of Special Chart on
Sectional and Terminal Area
ChartOutline on Sectional of Inset Chart
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION (Continued)
CULTURE
Railroads
Single Track
Double Track
More Than Two Tracks
Electric
Non-operating, Abandoned or
Under Construction
Roads
Dual-Lane Divided Highway
Category 1
Primary
Category 2
Secondary
Category 2
Trails
Category 3
Provides symbolization for
dismantled railroad when combined
with label “dismantled railroad.”Railroad Yards
Limiting Track To Scale
Location Only
Railroad Stations
Railroad Sidings and Short Spurs
Road Markers
Interstate Route No.
U.S. Route No.
Air Marked Identification Label
Road Names
Roads Under Construction
34FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
35FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area ChartsCULTURE (Continued)
Related Features to Railroads and Roads
Bridges and Viaducts
Railroad
Causeways
Overpasses and Underpasses
Tunnels-Road and Railroad
Bridges and Viaducts
Road
Ferries, Ferry Slips and Fords
Populated Places
Yellow tinted areas indicate populated places.
Small circle indicates an area too small to depict using
yellow tint.
Font Style and Size indicate the category of the populated area:
Large Cities Category 1
- population more than 250,000
Cities and Large Towns Category 2
- population 25,000 to 250,000
Towns and Villages Category 3
- population less than 25,000
Boundaries
International
State or Province
Convention or Mandate Line
Miscellaneous Cultural Features
Dams
Passable Locks
Weirs and Jetties
Breakwaters
Pipelines
Underground
Landmark Features
Mines or Quarries
Shaft Mines or Quarries
Wells
Other than water
Lookout Towers
(Elevation Base of Tower)
Aerial Cableways,Conveyors, Etc.
618Dam Carrying Road
Small Locks
Seawalls
Piers, Wharfs, Quays, etc.
Power Transmission
and Telecommunication Lines
Tanks
Outdoor Theater
Race Tracks
Coast Guard Station
Landmark Areas
Time Zones
Date Line
CULTURE (Continued)
36FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
37FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area ChartsHYDROGRAPHY
Open Water
Open/Inland Water
Lakes
Label as required.
Perennial
When too numerous to show
individual lakes, show
representative pattern and
descriptive note. Number
indicates elevation.
Non-Perennial
(dry, intermittent, etc.) Illustration
includes small perennial lake.
Reservoirs
Natural Shorelines
Man-made Shorelines
Label when necessary for
clarity
Too small to show to scale
Under Construction Inland Water
Shorelines
Definite
Fluctuating
Unsurveyed
Indefinite
Man-made
HYDROGRAPHY (Continued)
Streams
Perennial
Non-Perennial
Fanned Out
Alluvial fan
Braided
Disappearing
Seasonally Fluctuating
with undefined limits
with maximum bank limits,
prominent and constant
Sand Deposits in and along
riverbeds
Wet Sand Areas
Within and adjacent to desert areas
Canals
To Scale
Abandoned or Under Construction
Abandoned to Scale
Small Canals and Drainage / Irrigation Ditches
Perennial
Non-Perennial
Abandoned or Ancient
Numerous
Representative pattern and/or
descriptive note.
Aqueducts
To Scale
Abandoned or Under Construction
Underground
Suspended or Elevated
Tunnels
Kanats
Underground with Air Vents
38FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
3939FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area ChartsHYDROGRAPHY (Continued)
Falls
Double-Line
Single-Line
Rapids
Double-Line
Single-Line
Salt Evaporators and Salt Pans Man Exploited
Hummocks and Ridges
Peat Bogs
Rice Paddies
Extensive areas indicated
by label only.
Springs, Wells and Waterholes
Swamps, Marshes and Bogs
Mangrove And Nipa
Cranberry Bogs
Land Subject To Inundation
Reefs-Rocky or Coral
coral
Fish Ponds and Hatcheries
Miscellaneous Underwater Features Not Otherwise
Symbolized
Wrecks
Exposed
Rocks-Isolated
Bare or Awash
Tundra
HYDROGRAPHY (Continued)
Permanent Snow and Ice Areas
Glaciers
Glacial Moraines
Ice Cliffs
Snowfields, Ice Fields And Ice Caps
Foreshore Flats
Tidal flats exposed at low tide.
RELIEF
Contours
Basic
Approximate
Intermediate
AuxiliaryIce
Permanent
Polar Ice
Pack Ice
Ice Peaks
Depression
(Illustration includes mound
within depression)
Values
40FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
41FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area ChartsRELIEF (Continued)
Sand or Gravel Areas
Sand Dunes
To Scale
Hachuring
Spot Elevations
Position Accurate
Position Accurate, Elevation Approximate
Highest in General Area
Highest on Chart
Mountain Pass
Distorted Surface Areas
Lava Flows
Sand Ridges
To ScaleShaded Relief
Quarries To Scale
Craters
Unsurveyed Areas
Label appropriately as required
Levees And Eskers
Rock Strata Outcrop
Strip Mines, Mine Dumps And Tailings
To Scale
Escarpments, Bluffs, Cliffs, Depressions, Etc.
Uncontoured Areas
RELIEF DATA INCOMPLETELabel appropriately as required
42FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
VFR FLYWAY PLANNING CHARTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
VFR Flyway Planning Charts are printed on the reverse sides of the Baltimore-Washington, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincin -
nati, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, New Orleans, Phoenix, St. Lou -
is, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and Tampa Terminal Area Charts (TACs). The scale is 1:250,000,
with area of coverage the same as the associated TACs. Flyway Planning Charts depict flight paths and altitudes recom -
mended for use to by-pass areas heavily traversed by large turbine-powered aircraft. Ground references on these charts
provide a guide for visual orientation. VFR Flyway Planning charts are designed for use in conjunction with TACs and are
not to be used for navigation. These charts are updated every 56 days.
AIRPORTS
Landplane
No distinction is made
between airports with fuel and
those without fuel. Runways
may be exaggerated to clearly
portray the pattern. Hard-
surfaced runways that are
closed but still exist are
included in the charted pattern.
FAR 91 - Fixed wing special
VFR operations prohibited.
(Pvt): Non-public use having
landmark value.
“OBJECTIONABLE”: This
airport may adversely affect
airspace use.
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION
VHF Omni-Directional Radio
Range (VOR)
VORTAC
VOR-DME
DME
Example: DME co-located at an airport.Landplane (continued)
ABANDONED - Depicted for
landmark value or to prevent
confusion with an adjacent
usable landing area. Only
portrayed beneath or close to
the VFR flyway routes or
requested by the FAA.
(Normally at least 3000’ paved).
FOREIGN
Foreign Airport Note
NOTE: Airports outside the U.S. Flight Information Region (FIR)
are shown with the standard symbol.
Only the airport names and ICAO identifiers are shown.
Non-Directional Radio Beacon
(NDB)
NDB-DME
NAVAIDS Used to Define Class Airspace
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Flyway Planning Chars
AIRSPACE INFORMATION
Class B Airspace
Appropriate notes as required
may be shown.
(Mode C see
FAR 91.215/AIM)
All mileages are nautical
(NM).
All radials are magnetic.
Floors extending “upward and above” a certain altitude are pre -
ceded by a +. Operations at or below these altitudes are outside
of the Class B Airspace.)
Class D Airspace
(A minus sign in front of the
figure used to indicate “from
surface to but not including...”)
ALTITUDE IN HUNDREDS OF FEET MSL.
Special Airspace Areas
Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA)
Relating to National Security
Example: Washington DC
Appropriate notes as required may be shown.
Note: Delimiting line not shown when it coincides with Internation -
al Boundary, projection lines or other linear features.Class C Airspace
Appropriate notes as
required may be shown.
(Mode C see
FAR 91.215/AIM)
Class E Surface
(SFC) Airspace
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Flyway Planning Charts
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) Relating To National Se -
curity
Example: Washington DC
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) Relating To
National Security
Example: Washington DC
Appropriate notes as required may be shown.
Special Use Airspace
Only the airspace effective
below 18,000 feet MSL is
shown.
The type of area shall be
spelled out in large areas if
space permits.
Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ)
Note: Delimiting line not
shown when it coincides
with International Bound -
ary, projection lines or other
linear features.
Foreign Airspace Note
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Flyway Planning Chars
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Special Air Traffic Rules/Airport Traffic Areas (FAR Part
93)
Appropriate boxed note as re -
quired shown adjacent to area.
Inside the FAR Part 93 bound -
ary area, the cross hatching is
at a 45 degree angle.
Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA)
IFR Routes
Arrival
Departure
Arrival/Departure
VFR Transition Routes
Appropriate notes as required
may be shown.
Uni-directional
Bi-directional
Bi-directional with NAVAID Ident
and Radial
Special Conservation Areas
NOAA Regulated National Marine
Sanctuary Designated AreasMode C (FAR 91.215)
MODE C & ADS-B OUT
30 NMAppropriate notes as required may
be shown.
Sporting Event Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR)
Sites
National Defense Airspace Temporary Flight Restric -
tion (TFR) Areas
Miscellaneous Activity Areas
Aerobatic Practice Area
Glider Operations
Hang Glider Activity
Ultralight Activity
Unmanned Aircraft Activity
Parachute Jumping Area
with Frequency
Space Launch Activity Area
Example: Los Angeles
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Flyway Planning Charts
Suggested VFR Flyway And Altitude
Military Training Routes (MTR)
VFR Checkpoints
Underline indicates proper name of
VFR Checkpoint
VFR Waypoints
Stand-Alone
Collocated with VFR Checkpoint
Navigational Data
Obstructions
Obstacles may be lit or unlit.
Only obstacles greater than
999’ above ground level (AGL)
or specified by the local ATC
Facility shall be shown.
AGL heights are not shown.
High-intensity lights may
operate part-time or by
proximity activation.
Under Construction or reported
and position/elevation unveri -
fied.
47AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Flyway Planning Chars
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION
CULTURE
Railroads
Single and Multiple Tracks
Populated Places
Built-up Areas
Towns
BOUNDARIES
International
HYDROGRAPHY
Shorelines
RELIEF
Spot Elevations
Position Accurate
Mountain PeaksRoads
Dual-Lane
Divided Highway Primary
Prominent Pictorials
Power Transmission Lines
Landmarks
Reservoirs
Major Lakes and Rivers
48FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Flyway Planning Charts
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Flyway Planning Chars
HELICOPTER ROUTE CHARTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Helicopter Route Charts are three-color charts that depict current aeronautical information useful to helicopter pilots navigating
in areas with high concentrations of helicopter activity. Information depicted includes helicopter routes, four classes of heliports
with associated frequency and lighting capabilities, NAVAIDS, and obstructions. In addition, pictorial symbols, roads, and easily-
identified geographical features are portrayed. The scale is 1:125,000. These charts are updated every 56 days.
Landplane
All recognizable runways, including
some that may be closed, are shown
for visual identification.
Public
Private
Unverified
Abandoned
ForeignSeaplane
Heliport
Heliports public and private
Medical Center
Helipads located at major airports
(when requested)
Ultralight Flight Park
Foreign Airport Note
NOTE: Airports outside the U.S. Flight Information Region (FIR)
are shown with the standard symbol.
Only the airport names and ICAO identifiers are shown.
Airport Data Grouping
Boxed airport name indicates airport for which a Special Traffic
Rule has been established.
(Pvt): Non-public use having landmark value.
“OBJECTIONABLE”: This airport may adversely affect airspace
use.
Flight Service Station on field
Airspace where fixed wing special visual flight
rules operations are prohibited (shown above
airport name) FAR 91
Indicates FAR 93 Special Air Traffic Rules and
Airport Traffic
Location Idendtifier
ICAO Location Identifier
Control Tower (CT) - primary frequency
Star indicates operation part-time. See tower
frequencies tabulation for hours of operation
Automated Terminal
Information Service
Automated Surface Weather Observing
Systems (shown when full-time ATIS is not
available). Some ASOS/AWOS
facilities may not be located at airports.
Elevation in feet
Lighting in operation Sunset to Sunshine
Lighting limitations exists, refer
to Chart Supplement
UNICOM - Aeronautical advisory station
Follows the Common Traffic Advisory
Frequency (CTAF)
Unverified Heliport
Airport of Entry
When lighting is lacking, the respective character is replaced by a dash.
Lighting codes refer to runway edge lights and may not represent the longest runway or full length lighting. Dashes are not shown on
heliports or helipads unless additional information follows the elevation (e.g. UNICOM, CTAF).
AIRPORTSFAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter ChartsRADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION
NAVAIDs
VHF Omni-Directional Radio (VOR) Range
Open CircleOpen circle symbol
shown when NAVAID
located on airport. Type
of NAVAID shown in top
of box.
Compass Rose is
“reference” oriented to
magnetic north.
VOR
Operates less than
contiuous or On-Request
Underline indicates no
voice on this frequency
VORTAC
ASOS/AWOS
Frequency Channel Identi/f_ier} Morse
CodeNDB Frequency When an NDB NAVAID shares
the same name and Morse Code
as the VOR NAVAID the frequen -
cy can be collocated inside the
same box to conserve space.
VOR-DME
Crosshatch indicates
Shutdown status
DME
Flight Service Station (FSS)
Heavy line box indicates Flight
Service Station (FSS). Frequen -
cies 121.5, 122.2 and 243.0 are
available at many Alaskan FSSs
and are not shown above boxes.
All other frequencies are shown.
Certain FSSs provide Airport
Advisory Service, refer to Chart
Supplement.
R - Receive OnlyNon-Directional Radio Beacon (NDB)
NDB-DME
NAVAID Used to Define
Class B Airspace
Broadcast Stations (BS)
On request by the proper authority
or when a VFR Checkpoint.
Remote Communications Outlet (RCO)
Frequencies above thin line box
are remoted to NAVAID site.
Other FSS frequencies providing
voice communications may be
available as determined by altitude
and terrain. Consult Chart
Supplement for complete information.
Thin line box without frequencies
and controlling FSS name
indicates no FSS frequency available.
AIRSPACE INFORMATION
Class B Airspace
Ceiling of Class B in
hundreds of feet MSL
Floor of Class B in
hundreds of feet MSLCLASS B
SURFACE AREANAVAID identi/f_ier and
radial from facilityNAVAID identi/f_ier and
distance from facilityAppropriate notes as required
may be shown. (Mode C see FAR
91.215/AIM)
All mileages are nautical (NM)
(Floors extending “upward from
above” a certain altitude are
preceded by a +. Operations at
and below these altitudes are
outside of Class B Airspace.)
All radials are magnetic.
Class D Airspace
(A minus in front of the figure is used to
indicate “from surface to but not includ -
ing...”)
Altitudes in hundreds of feet MSL.
Special Airspace Areas
Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) Relating
to National Security
Example: Washington DC
Appropriate notes as required
may be shown.
Note: Delimiting line not shown
when it coincides with International
Boundary, projection lines or other
linear features.Class C Airspace
Ceiling of Class C in
hundreds of feet MSL
Floor of Class C in
hundreds of feet MSL
Ceiling is to but not
including /f_loor of Class B
SurfaceAppropriate notes as required
may be shown. (Mode C see
FAR 91.215/AIM)
Class E Surface (SFC) Airspace
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter ChartsAIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Special Airspace Areas (Continued)
Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) Relating to National
Security
Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ)
Note: Delimiting line not
shown when it coincides
with International Boundary,
projection lines or other linear
features.
Special Security Notice Permanent Continuous
Flight Restriction Areas
Mode C (FAR 91.215)
30 NMMODE C & ADS-B OUT
Appropriate notes as required
may be shown.
Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA)
Appropriate notes as
required
may be shown.Example: Washington DC
Special Air Traffic Rules / Airport Traffic Areas
(FAR Part 93)
Appropriate boxed notes as
required shown adjacent to
area. Inside the FAR Part 93
boundary area, the cross
hatching is at a 45 degree
angle.
Sporting Event Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR)
Sites
National Defense Airspace Temporary Flight Restric -
tion (TFR) Areas
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Miscellaneous Activity Areas
Aerobatic Practice Area
Glider Operations
Hang Glider Activity
Ultralight Activity
Unmanned Aircraft Activity
Parachute Jumping Area with Frequency
Space Launch Activity Area
Military Training Routes (MTR)
Helicopter Routes
Primary Route with Route
Name and Tower Frequency
Secondary Route
Transition Symbol
Reporting Points
Non-compulsory
Compulsory
Reporting Point Name
Foreign Airspace Note
Police Zones
Special Use Airspace
Only the airspace effective
below 18,000 feet MSL is
shown.
The type of area shall be
spelled out in large areas if
space permits.
One-way Route
Altitude Changeover Point
Recommended Altitudes
Maximum Altitude
Minimum Altitude
Recommended Altitude
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter ChartsSpecial Conservation Areas
National Park, Wildlife Refuge,
Primitive and Wilderness Areas, etc.
VFR Checkpoints
Underline indicates proper
name of VFR Checkpoint.
Obstruction
Above 299’ and below 1000’ AGL
1000’ and higher AGL
High-Intensity Obstruction Lights
High-intensity lights may operate
part-time or by proximity activation.
Navigation Data
NOAA Regulated National
Marine Sanctuary Designated
Areas
VFR Waypoints
Stand-Alone
Collocated with VFR Checkpoint
Collocated with VFR Checkpoint
& Reporting Point
Group Obstruction
Above 299’ and below 1000’ AGL
1000’ and higher AGL
Wind Turbine Farms
2894 UCWhen highest wind turbine is
unverified, UC will be shown
after MSL value.
Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF)
(see VFR Terms tab for explanation)
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION
Roads
Dual-Lane:
Divided Highways
Major Boulevards & Major Streets
Primary
Boundaries
International
State or Province
Power Transmission Lines
Prominent Pictorials
Landmarks
CULTURE
Railroads
Single Track
Double Track
Bridges
Populated Places
Built-up Areas
56FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts
58CARIBBEAN VFR AERONAUTICAL CHARTS (CAC)
The Caribbean Charts are published as two VFR Charts:
Caribbean 1 (CAC-1) covers Southern Florida, Cuba,
Haiti and the Bahamas; Caribbean 2 (CAC-2) covers
Puerto Rico, Haiti, Dominican Republic, the Lesser
Antilles and Leeward Islands. Charts are updated every
56-day chart cycle.
Caribbean Charts are designed for VFR flights and
provide aeronautical and topographic information of the
Caribbean. The aeronautical information includes
airports, radio aids to navigation, Class airspace and
special use airspace in U.S. and major airports, and
radio aids to navigation in foreign areas. The topographic
information includes city tint, populated places, principal
roads, drainage patterns and shaded relief.
The chart symbols used on the
Caribbean Charts are similar to
those used in the Sectional and
Terminal Area Charts, the major
difference being in scale. The
Caribbean VFR Chart scale is
1:1,000,000 versus the Sectional
Chart Scale of 1:500,000 and
Terminal Area Chart Scale of
1:250,000. Chart symbology will
appear smaller on the Caribbean
VFR Charts.
Example from Caribbean 2 VFR
Aeronautical Chart
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Caribbean VFR Aeronautical Charts (CAC)
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Caribbean VFR Aeronautical Charts (CAC)
U.S. Airspace depiction as shown on Visual Aeronautical Charts
60AIRSPACEFAA Chart Users’ Guide - Airspace
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Airspace
Excerpt from Detroit Sectional Chart
SPORTING
EVENT
TFR SITECLASS E
with
SURFACE
FLOOR
CLASS C
INNER BOUNDARYCLASS C
OUTER BOUNDARYSPORTING
EVENT
TFR SITESCLASS E
AIRSPACE
EXTENSION
with
SURFACE
FLOORMODE C
BOUNDARYCLASS D AIRSPACECLASS B
INTERNAL SECTOR
BOUNDARIESCLASS B
OUTER
BOUNDARY
CLASS E
with
700’ AGL FLOOR
CLASS E
with
700’ AGL FLOOR{
{CLASS B
EXTENSIONSCLASS B
EXTENSION
CLASS E
with
1200’ AGL
FLOOR
CLASS E
with
1200’ AGL
FLOOR
{
CLASS E
with
1200’ AGL
FLOOR
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Airspace
EXPLANATION OF IFR ENROUTE TERMS
FAA charts are prepared in accordance with specifications of the Interagency Air Committee (IAC), and are approved by
representatives of the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense (DoD). Some information on these
charts may only apply to military pilots.
The explanations of symbols used on Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) Enroute Charts and examples in this section are based
primarily on the IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts. Other IFR products use similar symbols in various colors. The chart leg -
ends portray aeronautical symbols with a brief description of what each symbol depicts. This section provides more details
of the symbols and how they are used on IFR Enroute charts.
AIRPORTS
Operational airports are shown on IFR Enroute Charts.
Low Charts:
• All IAP Airports are shown on the Low Altitude Charts (US and Alaska).
• Non-IAP Airports are shown on the U.S. Low Altitude Charts (Contiguous US) have a minimum hard surface
runway of 3,000’.
• Non-IAP airports are shown on the U.S. Low Altitude Alaska Charts are show if the runway is 3000’ or longer,
hard or soft surface.
• Public heliports with an Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) or requested by the FAA or DoD are depicted on
the IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts.
• Seaplane bases requested by the FAA or DoD are depicted on the IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts.
On IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts, airport tabulation is provided that identifies airport names, IDs and the panels they
are located on.
High Charts:
• Airports shown on the U.S. High Enroute Charts (Contiguous US) have a minimum hard surface runway of 5000’.
• Airports shown on the U.S. High Enroute Alaska Charts have a minimum hard surface runway of 4000’.
Charted airports are classified according to the following criteria:
LOW/HIGH ALTITUDE
Blue - Airports with an Instrument Approach Procedure and/or RADAR MINIMA published in the high altitude DoD
Flight Information Publications (FLIPs)
Green - Airports that have an approved Instrument Approach Procedure and/or RADAR MINIMA published in
either the U.S. Terminal Procedures Publications (TPPs) or the DoD FLIPs
Brown - Airports without a published Instrument Approach Procedure or RADAR MINIMA
Black - Foreign airports
Airports are plotted at their true geographic position.
Airports are identified by the airport name. In the case of military airports, Air Force Base (AFB), Naval Air Station (NAS),
Naval Air Facility (NAF), Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS), Army Air Field (AAF), etc., the abbreviated letters appear as
part of the airport name.
63FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
Airports marked "Pvt" immediately following the airport name are not for public use, but otherwise meet the criteria for
charting as specified above.
Runway length is the length of the longest active runway (including displaced thresholds but excluding overruns) and is
shown to the nearest 100 feet using 70 feet as the division point; e.g., a runway of 8,070' is labeled 81. The following run -
way compositions (materials) constitute a hard-surfaced runway: asphalt, bitumen, chip seal, concrete, and tar macadam.
Runways that are not hard-surfaced have a small letter "s" following the runway length, indicating a soft surface.
AIRPORT DATA DEPICTION
Low Altitude
1. Airport elevation given in feet above or below mean sea level
2. Pvt - Private use, not available to general public
3. A solid line box enclosed the airport name indicates FAR 93
Special Requirements - see Directory/Supplement
4. “NO SVFR” above the airport name indicates FAR 91 fixed-
wing special VFR flight is prohibited.
5. or following the airport identifier indicates Class C or
Class D Airspace
High Altitude - U.S.6. Associated city names for public airports are shown above or
preceding the airport name. If airport name and city name are
the same, only the airport name is shown. The airport identifier in
parentheses follows the airport name. City names for military and
private airports are not shown.
7. Airport Ident ICAO Location Indicator shown outside contigu -
ous U.S.
8. AFIS Alaska only
High Altitude - Alaska
LIGHTING CAPABILITY
Lighting Available
Pilot Controlled Lighting Part-time or on request
No lighting available
At private facilities- indicates no lighting
information is available
A symbol between the airport elevation and runway length means that runway lights are in operation sunset to sunrise.
A symbol indicates there is Pilot Controlled Lighting. A symbol means the lighting is part-time or on request, the
pilot should consult the Chart Supplement for light operating procedures. The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) thor -
oughly explains the types and uses of airport lighting aids.
VOR Minimum Operational Network (MON) Airports Designator
MON Airports with the Airport designator at the top of the Airport Data Block. The MON designation is to alert pilots
to those airports that have retained ILS and VOR instrument approach procedures for safe recovery in the event of a GPS
outage. Refer to the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) for expanded MON Airport guidance.
64FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION
All IFR radio NAVAIDs that have been flight checked and are operational are shown on all IFR Enroute Charts. Very High
Frequency/Ultrahigh Frequency (VHF/UHF) NAVAIDs, Very high frequency Omnidirectional Radio range (VORs), Tactical
Air Navigation (TACANs) are shown in black, and Low Frequency/Medium Frequency (LF/MF) NAVAIDs, (Compass Loca -
tors and Aeronautical or Marine NDBs) are shown in brown.
On IFR Enroute Charts, information about NAVAIDs is boxed as illustrated below. To avoid duplication of data, when two
or more NAVAIDs in a general area have the same name, the name is usually printed only once inside an identification
box with the frequencies, TACAN channel numbers, identification letters, or Morse Code Identifications of the different
NAVAIDs are shown in appropriate colors.
NAVAIDs in a shutdown status have the frequency and channel number crosshatched. Use of the NAVAID status "shut -
down" is only used when a facility has been decommissioned but cannot be published as such because of pending
airspace actions.
NAVIGATION AND COMMUNICATION BOXES - COMMON ELEMENTS
LOW ENROUTE CHARTS
RCO Frequencies
NAVAID Name, SSV(s)
FREQ, Ident, CH, Morse Code
Latitude, Longitude
Controlling FSS Radio or FSS Name (AK)HIGH ENROUTE CHARTS
RCO Frequencies
NAVAID Name
Frequency, Ident, SSV(s), Channel
Latitude, Longitude
Controlling FSS Radio or FSS Name (AK)
COMMON ELEMENTS (HIGH AND LOW CHARTS)
RCO FREQUENCY
Single Frequency
Multiple Frequencies
Frequencies transmit and receive except those followed by R and
T:
R - Receive Only T - Transmit Only
NAVAID BOX
Thin line NAVAID boxes without frequency(s) and FSS radio name
indicates no FSS frequencies available.
(AK only) Shadow NAVAID box indicates NAVAID and Flight Ser -
vice Station (FSS) have same name. VHF/UHF LF/MF
65FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
NAVAID STANDARD SERVICE VOLUME (SSV) CLASSIFICATIONS
SSV Class Altitudes Distance (NM)
(T) Terminal 1000’ to 12,000’ 25
(L) Low Altitude 1000’ to 18,000’ 40
(H) High Altitude 1000’ to 14,500’
14,500’ to 18,000’
18,000’ to 45,000’
45,000’ to 60,000’40
(VL) VOR Low 1000’ to 5,000’
5,000’ to 18,000’40
(VH) VOR High 1000’ to 5,000’
5,000’ to 14,500’
14,500’ to 18,000’
18,000’ to 45,000’
45,000’ to 60,000’40
(DL) DME Low & (DH) DME High* 1000’ to 12,900’ 40 increasing to 130
(DL) DME Low 12,900’ to 18,000’ 130
(DH) DME High 12,900’ to 45,000’
45,000’ to 60,000’130
* Between 1000’ to 12,900’, DME service volume follows a parabolic curve used by flight managment computers.
Notes: For NAVAIDs with two SSVs, the SSV for each component is shown in paired parentheses with the VOR SSV
shown first followed by the DME or TACAN SSV. Additionally, High Altitude facilities provide Low Altitude and Terminal
service volume and Low Altitude facilities provide Terminal service volume. Altitudes are with respect to the station’s
site elevation. Coverage is not available in a cone of airspace directly above the facility. In some cases local conditions
(terrain, buildings, trees, etc.) may require that the service volume be restricted. The public shall be informed of any
such restriction by a remark in the NAVAID entry or by a NOTAM.
DISTANCE MEASURING EQUIPMENT
Facilities that operate in the “Y” mode for DME reception (Y)
VOICE COMMUNICATIONS VIA NAVAID
Voice Transmitted
No Voice Transmitted
NAVAID SHUTDOWN STATUS VHF/UHF LF/MF
PART TIME OR ON-REQUEST VHF/UHF LF/MF
AUTOMATED WEATHER BROADCAST SERVICES
ASOS/AWOS - Automated Surface Observing Station/Automated
Weather Observing Station VHF/UHF LF/MF
Automated weather, when available, is broadcast on the associ -
ated NAVAID frequency.
LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE
Latitude and Longitude coordinates are provided for those
NAVAIDs that make up part of a route/airway or a holding pattern.
All TACAN facilities will include geographic coordinates. LOW ENROUTE HIGH ENROUTE
66FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
AIRSPACE INFORMATION
CONTROLLED AIRSPACE
Controlled airspace consists of those areas where some or all aircraft are subjected to air traffic control within the follow -
ing airspace classifications of A, B, C, D, & E.
Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC) are established to provide Air Traffic Control to aircraft operating on IFR flight
plans within controlled airspace, particularly during the enroute phase of flight. Boundaries of the ARTCCs are shown in
their entirety using the symbol below.
ARTCC Name
Site Name
Frequency Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC)
When Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) exists for an ARTCC, the text CPDLC (LOGON KUSA) will be
shown parallel to the boundary above or below the ARTCC identification as shown below.
Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) with
Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC)
The responsible ARTCC Center names are shown adjacent and parallel to the boundary line. ARTCC sector frequencies
are shown in boxes outlined by the same symbol.
ARTCC Name
Site Name
Frequency ARTCC Remoted Sites with
discrete VHF and UHF frequencies
Class A Airspace is depicted as open area (white) on the IFR Enroute High Altitude Charts. It consists of
airspace from 18,000 Mean Sea Level (MSL) to FL600.
Class B Airspace is depicted as screened blue area with a solid line encompassing the area.
Class C Airspace is depicted as screened blue area with a dashed line encompassing the area with a let -
ter “C” enclosed in a box following the airport name.
Class B and Class C Airspace consist of controlled airspace extending upward from the surface or a des -
ignated floor to specified altitudes, within which all aircraft and pilots are subject to the operating rules and
requirements specified in the Federal Aviation Regulations (UHF) 71. Class B and C Airspace are shown
in abbreviated forms on IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts. A general note adjacent to Class B airspace
refers the user to the appropriate VFR Terminal Area Chart.
Class D Airspace (airports with an operating control tower) are depicted as open area (white) with a letter
“D” enclosed in a box following the airport name.
Class E Airspace is depicted as open area (white) on the IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts. It consists of
airspace below FL180.
UNCONTROLLED AIRSPACE
Class G Airspace within the United States extends to 14,500’ MSL. This uncontrolled airspace is shown
as screened brown.
SPECIAL USE AIRSPACE
Special Use Airspace (SUA) confines certain flight activities, restricts entry, or cautions other aircraft operating within
specific boundaries. SUA areas are shown in their entirety, even when they overlap, adjoin, or when an area is designated
within another area. SUA with altitudes from the surface and above are shown on the IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts.
Similarly, SUA that extends above 18,000' MSL are shown on IFR Enroute High Altitude Charts. IFR Enroute Charts
tabulations identify the type of SUA, ID, effective altitudes, times of use, controlling agency and the panel it is located on.
67FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
Users need to be aware that a NOTAM addressing activation will NOT be issued to announce permanently listed times of
use.
High and Low Low Altitude Only
P - Prohibited Area MOA - Military Operations Area
R - Restricted Area A - Alert Area *
W - Warning Area
* Alert Areas do not extend into Class A, B, C and D airspace, or Class E airport surface areas.
See Airspace Tabulation on chart for complete information.
OTHER AIRSPACE
FAR 91 Special Air Traffic Rules are shown with the type NO SVFR above the airport name.
FAR 93 Special Airspace Traffic Rules are shown with a solid line box around the airport name, indicating FAR 93 Spe -
cial Requirements see Chart Supplement.
Mode C Required Airspace (from the surface to 10,000' MSL) within 30 NM radius of the primary airport(s) for which a
Class B airspace is designated, is depicted on IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts as a blue circle labeled MODE C & ADS-B
OUT 30 NM.
MODE C & ADS-B OUT
30 NM
Mode C & ADS-B Out is also required for operations within and above all Class C airspace up to 10,000' MSL, but not
depicted. See FAR 91.215 and the AIM.
INSTRUMENT AIRWAYS
The FAA has established two fixed route systems for air navigation. The VOR and LF/MF system-designated from 1,200'
Above Ground Level (AGL) to but not including FL 180 is shown on IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts, and the Jet Route
system designated from FL 180 to FL 450 inclusive is shown on IFR Enroute High Altitude Charts.
VOR LF/MF AIRWAY SYSTEM (IFR LOW ALTITUDE ENROUTE CHARTS)
In this system VOR airways - airways based on VOR or VORTAC NAVAIDs - are depicted in black and identified by a "V"
(Victor) followed by the route number (e.g., "V12").
LF/MF airways - airways based on LF/MF NAVAIDs - are sometimes called "colored airways" because they are identified
by color name and number (e.g., "Amber One", charted as "A1"). In Alaska, Green and Red airways are plotted east and
west, and Amber and Blue airways are plotted north and south. Regardless of their color identifier, LF/MF airways are
shown in brown.
68FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
AIRWAY/ROUTE DATA
On both series of IFR Enroute Charts, airway/route data such as the airway identifications, magnetic courses bearings or
radials, mileages, and altitudes (e.g., Minimum Enroute Altitudes (MEAs), Minimum Reception Altitudes (MRAs), Maxi -
mum Authorized Altitudes (MAAs), Minimum Obstacle Clearance Altitudes (MOCAs), Minimum Turning Altitudes (MTAs)
and Minimum Crossing Altitudes (MCAs)) are shown aligned with the airway.
As a rule the airway/route data is charted and in the same color as the airway, with one exception. Charted in blue, Global
Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) MEAs, identified with a "G" suffix, have been added to "V" and "colored airways" for
aircraft flying those airways using Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation.
Airways/Routes predicated on VOR or VORTAC NAVAIDs are defined by the outbound radial from the NAVAID. Airways/
Routes predicated on LF/MF NAVAIDs are defined by the inbound bearing.
• Minimum Enroute Altitude (MEA) - The MEA is the lowest published altitude between radio fixes that assures
acceptable navigational signal coverage and meets obstacle clearance requirements between those fixes. The
MEA prescribed for a Federal airway or segment, RNAV low or high route, or other direct route applies to the en -
tire width of the airway, segment, or route between the radio fixes defining the airway, segment, or route. MEAs for
routes wholly contained within controlled airspace normally provide a buffer above the floor of controlled airspace
consisting of at least 300 feet within transition areas and 500 feet within control areas. MEAs are established
based upon obstacle clearance over terrain and man-made objects, adequacy of navigation facility performance,
and communications requirements.
• Minimum Reception Altitude (MRA) - MRAs are determined by FAA flight inspection traversing an entire route
of flight to establish the minimum altitude the navigation signal can be received for the route and for off-course
NAVAID facilities that determine a fix. When the MRA at the fix is higher than the MEA, an MRA is established for
the fix and is the lowest altitude at which an intersection can be determined.
• Maximum Authorized Altitude (MAA) - An MAA is a published altitude representing the maximum usable
altitude or flight level for an airspace structure or route segment. It is the highest altitude on a Federal airway , jet
route, RNAV low or high route, or other direct route for which an MEA is designated at which adequate reception
of navigation signals is assured.
• Minimum Obstruction Clearance Altitude (MOCA) - The MOCA is the lowest published altitude in effect be -
tween radio fixes on VOR airways, off-airway routes, or route segments that meets obstacle clearance require -
ments for the entire route segment and assures acceptable navigational signal coverage only within 25 statute (22
nautical) miles of a VOR. A MOCA is only shown on the Enroute Low Charts and only published when it is lower
than the MEA. When shown, it is preceded by an asterisk.
• Minimum Turning Altitude (MTA) - Minimum turning altitude (MTA) is a charted altitude providing vertical and
lateral obstruction clearance based on turn criteria over certain fixes, NA VAIDs, waypoints, and on charted route
segments. When a VHF airway or route terminates at a NAVAID or fix, the primary area extends beyond that
termination point. When a change of course on VHF airways and routes is necessary, the enroute obstacle clear -
ance turning area extends the primary and secondary obstacle clearance areas to accommodate the turn radius
of the aircraft. Since turns at or after fix passage may exceed airway and route boundaries, pilots are expected to
adhere to airway and route protected airspace by leading turns early before a fix. The turn area provides obstacle
clearance for both turn anticipation (turning prior to the fix) and flyover protection (turning after crossing the fix).
Turning fixes requiring a higher MTA are charted with a flag along with accompanying text describing the MTA
restriction.
• Minimum Crossing Altitude (MCA) - An MCA is the lowest altitude at certain fixes at which the aircraft must
cross when proceeding in the direction of a higher minimum enroute IFR altitude. MCAs are established in all
cases where obstacles intervene to prevent pilots from maintaining obstacle clearance during a normal climb to a
higher MEA after passing a point beyond which the higher MEA applies. The same protected enroute area vertical
obstacle clearance requirements for the primary and secondary areas are considered in the determination of the
MCA.
Victor Route (with RNAV/GPS MEA shown in blue)
69FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
AREA NAVIGATION (RNAV) "T" ROUTE SYSTEM
The FAA has created new low altitude area navigation (RNAV) "T" routes for the enroute and terminal environments. The
RNAV routes will provide more direct routing for IFR aircraft and enhance the safety and efficiency of the National Air -
space System. To utilize these routes aircraft are required to be equipped with IFR approved GNSS. In Alaska, TSO-145a
and 146a equipment is required.
Low altitude RNAV only routes are identified by the prefix "T", and the prefix "TK" for RNAV helicopter routes followed by a
three digit number (T-200 to T-500). Routes are depicted in blue on the IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts. RNAV route data
(route line, identification boxes, mileages, waypoints, waypoint names, magnetic reference courses and MEAs) will also
be printed in blue. Magnetic reference courses will be shown originating from a waypoint, fix/reporting point or NA VAID.
GNSS MEA for each segment is established to ensure obstacle clearance and communications reception. GNSS MEAs
are identified with a "G" suffix.
Joint Victor/RNAV routes are charted as outlined above except as noted. The joint Victor route and the RNAV route iden -
tification boxes are shown adjacent to each other. Magnetic reference courses are not shown. MEAs are charted above
the appropriate identification box or stacked in pairs, GNSS and V ictor. On joint routes, RNAV specific information will be
printed in blue.
UNUSABLE AIRWAY/ROUTE SEGMENTS
Airway/Route segments designated by the FAA as unusable will be depicted as shown below.
Unusable Victor Route
Pilots should not file a flight plan for or accept a clearance that includes navigation on any route or route segment depict -
ed as unusable. Pilots using RNAV may request ATC clearance to fly point-to-point between valid waypoints or fixes, even
those on routes depicted as unusable (refer to AC 90-108 for RNAV eligibility).
70FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
Coincident Airways/Routes with Unusable Segment
When two airways/routes are coincident, but only one airway/route is designated as unusable, the following note indicat -
ing which airway the unusable symbology applies to will be placed in close proximity to the airway/route identifiers.
OFF ROUTE OBSTRUCTION CLEARANCE ALTITUDE (OROCA)
The Off Route Obstruction Clearance Altitude (OROCA) is depicted on IFR Enroute Low Altitude and Pacific charts and
is represented in thousands and hundreds of feet above MSL. OROCAs are shown in every 30 x 30 minute quadrant on
Area Charts, every one degree by one degree quadrant for IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts - U.S. and every two de¬gree
by two degree quadrant on IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts - Alaska. The OROCA is based on the highest known terrain
feature or obstruction in each quadrangle, bounded by the ticked lines of latitude/longitude including data 4 NM outside
the quadrant. In this example the OROCA represents 12,500 feet.
OROCA is computed just as the Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF) found on Visual Flight Rule (VFR) Charts except that it
provides an additional vertical buffer of 1,000 feet in designated non-mountainous areas and a 2,000 foot vertical buffer in
designated mountainous areas within the United States. Evaluating the area around the quadrant provides the chart user
the same lateral clearance an airway provides should the line of intended flight follow a ticked line of latitude or longitude.
OROCA altitudes are not assessed for NAVAID signal coverage, air traffic control surveillance, or communications cover -
age, and are published for general situational awareness, flight planning, and in-flight contingency use. OROCAs can be
found over all land masses and open water areas containing man-made obstructions (such as oil rigs).
MILITARY TRAINING ROUTES (MTRs)
Military Training Routes (MTRs) are routes established for the conduct of low-altitude, high-speed military flight training
(generally below 10,000 feet MSL at airspeeds in excess of 250 knots Indicated Air Speed). These routes are depicted in
brown on IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts, and are not shown on inset charts or on IFR Enroute High Altitude Charts. IFR
Enroute Low Altitude Charts depict all IFR Military Training Routes (IRs) and VFR Military Training Routes (VRs), except
those VRs that are entirely at or below 1,500 feet AGL.
MTRs are identified by designators (IR-107, VR-134) that are shown in brown on the route centerline. Arrows are shown
to indicate the direction of flight along the route. The width of the route determines the width of the line that is plotted on
the chart:
Route segments with a width of 5 NM or less, both sides of the centerline, are shown by a .02" line.
Route segments with a width greater than 5 NM, either or both sides of the centerline, are shown by a .035" line.
MTRs for particular chart pairs (ex. L1/2, etc.) are alphabetically, then numerically tabulated. The tabulation includes MTR
type and unique identification and altitude range.
71FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
72ALASKA CAPSTONE ROUTES (R Routes)
The Alaska Capstone program is an initiative to enhance safety and improve the efficient use of the navigable airspace in
Alaska. R Routes are low altitude RNAV Routes that require specific FAA authorization. The routes are published on the
L-1 Alaska Low Altitude Enroute Chart. The R Routes and associated notes are published in green with a “R” identifier
followed by the route number, followed by a negative “R” identifier. An associated boxed note, also in green, is shown in
close proximity to the routes.
JET ROUTE SYSTEM (HIGH ALTITUDE ENROUTE CHARTS)
Jet routes are based on VOR or VORTAC NAVAIDs, and are depicted in black with a "J" identifier followed by the route
number (e.g., "J12"). In Alaska, Russia and Canada some segments of jet routes are based on LF/MF NAVAIDs.
AREA NAVIGATION (RNAV) "Q" ROUTE SYSTEM (IFR ENROUTE HIGH ALTITUDE CHARTS)
The FAA has adopted certain amendments to Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, which paved the way for the develop -
ment of new area high altitude navigation (RNAV) "Q" routes in the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS). These amend -
ments enable the FAA to take advantage of technological advancements in navigation systems such as the GPS. RNAV
"Q" Route MEAs are shown when other than FL 180 MEAs for DME/DME/Inertial Reference Unit (IRU) RNAV aircraft
have a "D" suffix.
RNAV routes and associated data are charted in blue."Q" Routes on the IFR Gulf of America charts are shown in black.
Magnetic reference courses are shown originating from a waypoint, fix/reporting point, or NA VAID.
Joint Jet/RNAV route identification boxes will be located adjacent to each other with the route charted in black. With the
exception of Q-Routes in the Gulf of America GNSS or DME/DME/IRU RNAV are required, unless otherwise indicated. Q-
Routes in Alaska are GNSS Only. Altitude values are stacked highest to lowest.
Joint Jet/RNAV Route
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute TermsFOREIGN AREAS
Limited data is depicted in areas outside the U.S. on all appropriate Enroute U.S., Alaska and Pacific High/Low IFR
aeronautical charts. The data provided outside the U.S. is for situational awareness and transition planning. Areas outside
of the U.S. have been skeletonized and sybmolized in black and/or a black screen applied. This highlights the intent that
U.S. charts should only be used for navigation within domestic airspace and charts of other countries should be used
within their respective airspace.
TERRAIN CONTOURS ON AREA CHARTS
Based on a recommendation of the National Transportation Safety Board, terrain contours have been added to the
Enroute Area Charts and are intended to increase pilots' situational awareness for safe flight over changes in terrain. The
following Area Charts portray terrain: Anchorage, Denver, Fairbanks, Juneau, Los Angeles, Nome, Phoenix, San Fran -
cisco, Vancouver and Washington.
When terrain rises at least a 1,000 feet above the primary airports' elevation, terrain is charted using shades of brown with
brown contour lines and values. The initial contour will be 1,000 or 2,000 feet above the airports' elevation. Subsequent
intervals will be 2,000 or 3,000 foot increments.
Contours are supplemented with a representative number of spots elevations and are shown in solid black. The highest
elevation on an Area Chart is shown with a larger spot and text.
The following boxed note is added to the affected Area Charts.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
AIRPORTS
Airport Data - Low/High Altitude
Civil Charts: High/Low
Civil And Military Charts: High/Low
Military Charts: High/Low
Seaplane - Civil Charts: Low
Heliport Charts: Low
Emergency Use Only
Pacific Only
IFR ENROUTE LOW / HIGH ALTITUDE SYMBOLS
(U.S., PACIFIC AND ALASKA CHARTS)
Facilities in BLUE or GREEN have an approved Instrument Approach Procedure and/or RADAR MINIMA published in either the FAA
Terminal Procedures Publication or the DoD FLIPs. Those in BLUE have an Instrument Approach Procedure and/or RADAR MINIMA
published at least in the High Altitude DoD FLIPs. Facilities in BROWN do not have a published Instrument Procedure or RADAR
MINIMA. Facilities in BLACK are foreign airports.
All IAP Airports are shown on the Low Altitude Charts.
Non-IAP Airports shown on the U.S. Low Altitude Charts have a minimum hard surface runway of 3000’.
Airports shown on the U.S. High Altitude Charts have a minimum hard surface runway of 5000’.
Airports shown on the Alaska High Altitude Charts have a minimum hard or soft surface runway of 4000’.
Associated city names for public airports are shown above or preceding the airport name and city name are the same only the airport
name is shown. City names for military and private airports are not shown.
The airport identifier in parentheses follows the airport name or Pvt.
Pvt - Private Use
75AIRPORT DATA DEPICTION
Low Altitude
1. Airport elevation given in feet above or below mean sea level
2. Pvt - Private use, not available to general public
3. A solid line box enclosed the airport name indicates FAR 93
Special Requirements - see Directory/Supplement
4. “NO SVFR” above the airport name indicates FAR 91 fixed-
wing special VFR flight is prohibited.
5. or following the airport identifier indicates Class C or
Class D Airspace
High Altitude - U.S.6. Associated city names for public airports are shown above or
preceding the airport name. If airport name and city name are
the same, only the airport name is shown. The airport identifier in
parentheses follows the airport name. City names for military and
private airports are not shown.
7. Airport Ident ICAO Location Indicator shown outside contiguous
U.S.
8. AFIS Alaska only
High Altitude - Alaska FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
Airports (Continued)
LIGHTING CAPABILITY
Lighting Available
Pilot Controlled Lighting Part-time or on request
No lighting available
At private facilities- indicates no lighting
information is available
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION
NAVAIDS
VOR VOR/DME TACAN DME NDB NDB/DME Reporting Function
Non Compulsory Reporting or Off Airway
Compulsory Reporting
Note: VHF/UHF is depicted in Black. LF/MF is depicted in Brown. RNAV is depicted in Blue
Compass Roses
VHF/UHF LF/MF
Compass Roses are oriented to Magnetic North of the NAVAID that cannot be adjusted to the charted isogonic values.
76Compass Locator Beacon
LOW ALTITUDE
Chart Example : Enroute Low L-27 US
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)
LOW ALTITUDE
ILS LOCALIZER
ILS Localizer Course with
additional navigation function
ILS Localizer Back Course with
additional navigation function
HIGH ALTITUDE - ALASKA
VOR/DME RNAV
WAYPOINT DATA
Coordinates
Frequency
IdentifierReference
Facility ElevationRadial/Distance
(Facility to Waypoint)ILS Localizer Example with Back Course
(Chart: Enroute Low L-1 US)
77NAVIGATION AND COMMUNICATION BOXES - COMMON ELEMENTS
LOW ENROUTE CHARTS
RCO Frequencies
NAVAID Name, SSV(s)
FREQ, Ident, CH, Morse Code
Latitude, Longitude
Controlling FSS Radio or FSS Name (AK)
COMMON ELEMENTS (HIGH AND LOW CHARTS)
RCO Frequency
Single Frequency
Multiple Frequencies
Frequencies transmit and receive except those followed by R
and T:
R - Receive Only T - Transmit Only
NAVAID Box
Thin line NAVAID boxes without frequency(s) and FSS radio name
indicates no FSS frequencies available.
(AK only) Shadow NAVAID box indicates NAVAID and Flight Service
Station (FSS) have same name.HIGH ENROUTE CHARTS
RCO Frequencies
NAVAID Name
Frequency, Ident, SSV(s), Channel
Latitude, Longitude
Controlling FSS Radio or FSS Name (AK)
VHF/UHF LF/MF
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
NAVAID STANDARD SERVICE VOLUME (SSV) CLAS -
SIFICATIONS
(VL), (T), etc. indicate SSV. See “NAVAID STANDARD SERVICE
VOLUME (SSV) CLASSIFICATIONS” on page 66 or the Chart
Supplement for SSV Altitude and Range Boundaries.
DISTANCE MEASURING EQUIPMENT
Facilities that operate in the “Y” mode for DME reception
VOICE COMMUNICATIONS VIA NAVAID
Voice Transmitted
No Voice Transmitted
NAVAID SHUTDOWN STATUS
PART TIME OR ON-REQUEST
(T) (L) (VL) (H) (VH) (DL) (DH)
(Y)
VHF/UHF LF/MF
VHF/UHF LF/MF
78RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)
Navigation and Communication Boxes - Common Elements
AUTOMATED WEATHER BROADCAST SERVICES
ASOS/AWOS - Automated Surface Observing Station/Automated
Weather Observing Station
LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE
Latitude and Longitude coordinates are provided for those
NAVAIDs that make up part of a route/airway or a holding pattern.
All TACAN facilities will include geographic coordinates. VHF/UHF LF/MF
LOW ENROUTE HIGH ENROUTE
Navigation and Communication Boxes - Examples
LOW ENROUTE CHARTS
VOR
R - Receive only 122.1R
Controlling FSS Name - ANDERSON
(T) - Service Volume
Receive & Transmit on 122.35
(T) - Service Volume
Latitude and Longitude
Controlling FSS Name - MACONHIGH ENROUTE CHARTS
VOR
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)
Navigation And Communication Boxes - Examples (Continued)
LOW ENROUTE CHARTS
VOR/DME
No Voice Communications
(Y) Mode DME
R - Receive only 122.1R
Controlling FSS Name - BUFFALO
(AK only) Shadow NAVAID Box
FSS Associated with NAVAID
TACAN
TACAN Channels are without
voice but not underlined
Part Time NAVAID
VORTAC
Shutdown status
DME
DME Channel, Ident, Morse Code,
VHF Frequency
NDB
A - ASOS/AWOS Available
Shutdown status
NDB/DME
No Voice Communications
(Y) Mode DME
(AK only) Shadow NAVAID Box
FSS Associated with NAVAIDHIGH ENROUTE CHARTS
VOR/DME
Off Route (Greyed NAVAID Box
and NAVAID)
DME in Y Mode
(AK only) Shadow NAVAID Box
FSS Associated with NAVAID
TACAN
Off Route
Off Route - Part Time NAVAID
(Greyed NAVAID Box and NAVAID)
VORTAC
Off Route (Greyed NAVAID Box
and NAVAID)
DME
DME Channel, Ident,
VHF Frequency
NDB
NDB/DME
No Voice Communications
(Y) Mode DME
(AK only) Shadow NAVAID Box
FSS Associated with NAVAID
Notes: Morse Code is not shown on High NAVAID Boxes.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)
Stand Alone Flight Services and Communication Outlets
Flight Service Station (FSS) - Alaska Only
Shadow NAVAID boxes indicate Flight Service Station (FSS) loca -
tions. Frequency 122.2 (Conterminous U.S) and 121.5 and 243.0
(Alaska) are available at many FSSs and are not shown. All other
frequencies are shown above the box.
Certain FSSs provide Local Airport Advisory (LAA) on 123.6.
Frequencies transmit and receive except those followed by R and
T:
R - Receive Only
T - Transmit Only
Remote Communications Outlet (RCO)
Thin line NAVAID boxes without frequencies and controlling FSS
name indicate no FSS frequencies available. Frequencies posi -
tioned above the thin line boxes are remoted to the NAVAID sites.
Other frequencies at the controlling FSS named are available,
however altitude and terrain may determine their reception.
Stand Alone AWOS & ASOSLOW CHARTS
Stand Alone FSS
Stand Alone FSS Associated
with an Airport
Part-time FSS
Stand Alone RCO
RCO Associated/Co-located
with an Airport
HIGH CHARTS
Stand Alone FSS
Stand Alone FSS Associated
with an Airport
Stand Alone RCO
RCO Associated/Co-located
with an Airport
CASPER 122.4MON
DOUGLA S
Converse County
(DGW)
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
81AIRSPACE INFORMATION
Airway/Route Types
Low and High Enroute Airway Data:
Low Enroute Charts
Victor Airways
LF/MF Airway
RNAV T Route
GNSS Required
RNAV TK Helicopter Route
GNSS Required
Preferred Direction Victor Route $V0
Unusable Route Segment
Military Training Routes (MTR)
MTRs 5NM or less both sides
of centerline
MTRs greater than 5NM either
or both sides of centerline
Arrow indicates direction of route
See MTR tabulation for altitude range information
All IR and VR MTRs are shown except those VRs at or bleow
1500’ AGL
CAUTION: Inset charts do not depict MTRs
Alaska Capstone Routes (R Routes)
”R” Routes (R2010, R2015, R2020, R2025) are RNP 1 Naviga -
tion Specification. Users must have specific FAA authorization,
through Operations Specification or Letter of Authorization,
obtained from Flight Standards to use these routes. The aircraft’s
lateral deviation display scaling must support the RNP 1 Enroute
operation.Low and High Enroute Charts
ATS Route
Oceanic Route
VHF/UHF Data is depicted in Black.
LF/MF Data is depicted in Brown.
RNAV Route data is depicted in Blue
High Enroute Charts
Jet Routes
Atlantic Routes
Bahama Routes
RNAV Q Routes
Alaska Q Routes require GNSS and radar surveillance. Within the
CONUS, GNSS or DME/DME/IRU RNAV required, unless other -
wise indicated. DME/DME/IRU aircraft require radar surveillance.
Preferred Direction Jet Routes
Preferred Direction RNAV Q Routes
Preferred Direction ATS Route
Unusable Route Segment
Substitute Route
All relative and supporting data See NOTAMs or appropriate
shown in brown. publication for specific
information.FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
82Airspace Information (Continued)
FIXES
VHF/UHF LF/MF
VHF/UHF
VHF/UHF LF/MF
N/A
N/A
N/A N/AREPORTING FUNCTION
Compulsory Position Reporting
Non-Compulsory Position Reporting
Fix or Waypoint Coordinates
Fix Coordinates are shown for compulsory, offshore and
holding fixes.
Waypoints Coordinates are shown when waypoint is not
part of a RNAV route and when located on or beyond the
boundary of the U.S. Continental Control (12 mile limit).
Off-set arrows indicate facility forming a fix
- Arrow points away from the VHF/UHF NAVAID
- Arrow points towards the LF/MF NAVAID
Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) Fix
Denotes DME fix (distance same as airway / route mileage)
Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) Fix
Denotes DME fix (encircled mileage shown when not other -
wise obvious)
Example:
First segment, 5NM; second segment 10NM; total milage
provided in encircled DME arrow.
Total Mileages between Compulsory Reporting
Points or NAVAIDs
Note: All mileages are in Nautical Miles
MILEAGE BETWEEN OTHER FIXES, NAVAIDs
AND/OR MILEAGE BREAKDOWN
Mileage Breakdown or Computer Navigation Fix
(CNF)
Five letter identifier in parentheses indicates CNF with no
ATC function
FACILITY LOCATOR BOATS
Crosshatch indicates Shutdown status of NAVAID
RADIAL OUTBOUND FROM A VHF/UHF NAVAID
All Radials are magnetic.
BEARING INBOUND TO AN LF/MF NAVAID
All Bearings are magnetic.
MAGNETIC REFERENCE BEARING , outbound from
a NAVAID or Fix
Note: Not shown on joint Victor/RNAV or Jet/RNAV Routes.WAYPOINTS
RNAV
N/A
N/A
RNAV
N/A
N/A
RNAV
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
83Airspace Information (Continued)
VHF/UHF LF/MF
LOW CHARTS LOW CHARTS
HIGH CHARTS HIGH CHARTS
MEA-29000 MEA-FL240
LOW CHARTS
HIGH CHARTS
65279$J505$
91MEA GAPMEA-24000
108TWISP
LOW / HIGH LOW / HIGH
CHARTS CHARTS
LOW CHARTS LOW CHARTS
LOW CHARTS LOW CHARTS
LOW / HIGH LOW / HIGH
CHARTS CHARTS
MINIMUM ENROUTE ALTITUDE (MEA)
All Altitudes Are MSL Unless Otherwise Noted.
Directional MEAs
MEAs are shown on IFR High Altitude Charts when MEA is
other than 18,000’.
MINIMUM ENROUTE ALTITUDE (MEA) GAP
MEA is established when there is a gap in navigation signal
coverage.
Maximum Authorized Altitude (MAA)
All Altitudes Are MSL Unless Otherwise Noted.
MAAs are shown on IFR High Altitude Charts when MAA is
other than 45,000’.
Minimum Obstruction Clearance Altitude (MOCA)
All Altitudes Are MSL Unless Otherwise Noted.
Minimum Turning Altitude (MTA) and Minimum
Crossing Altitude (MCA)
See Low Enroute Chart Example below for examples of
both MTAs and MCAs.
MINIMUM RECEPTION ALTITUDE (MRA)
ALTITUDE CHANGE
MEA, MOCA and/or MAA change at other than NAVAIDs
CHANGEOVER POINT
Changeover Point giving mileage to NAVAIDs (Not shown
at midpoint locations.)
HOLDING PATTERNS
RNAV Holding Pattern Magnetic Reference Bearing is de -
termined by the isogonic value at the waypoint or fix.
Holding Pattern with maximum restriction airspeed 210K
applies to altitudes 6000’ to and including 14000’. 175K ap -
plied to all altitudes. Airspeed depicted is Indicated Airspeed
(IAS)RNAV
LOW CHARTS
HIGH CHARTS
MEA for GNSS RNAV
aircraft
MEA-24000G
MEA for DME/DME/IRU
RNAV aircraft
MEA-24000D
N/A
LOW / HIGH
CHARTS
LOW CHARTS
LOW CHARTS
N/A
N/A
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
84AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Enroute Chart Examples
Low Enroute Chart
56FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
85Enroute Chart Examples
Low Enroute Chart (Continued)
Reference Number
4Description
Multiple MCAs at a NAVAID
V21 and V257 - MCA at DBS of 8600’ traveling North
V298 - MCA at DBS of 9800’ traveling West
V343 - MCA at DBS of 8500’ traveling North
V520 - MCA at DBS of 9000’ traveling East
V520 - MCA at DBS of 10600’ traveling West
MCA and MRA at a Fix
MCA at SABAT on V298 of 11,100 traveling East.
MRA at SABAT of 10000.
Example of MOCA and directional MEAs along a Victor
Route
Traveling East from DBS, MEA 13,000’ the first two segments,
15,000 along third segment.
Traveling West from QUIRT, MEA of 15,000’ the first segment,
MEA of 10,000 the second segment and MEA of 9,000 the third
segment.
MOCA for DBS to SABAT and SABAT to LAMON segments of
MCA Example
MCA at OSITY on V330. MCA of 9500’ traveling East on V330
from Idaho Falls (IDA) VOR-DME.AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Enroute Chart Examples
Low Enroute Chart (Continued)
Reference Number
6Description
MEA VHF and RNAV Example
MEA for aircraft utilizing VHF NAVAID of 15000’
MEA for aircraft utilizing RNAV of 13300’
MOCA of 13300’
MCA and MTA Example at a NAVAID
MCA for aircraft traveling West along V520 to cross JAC at 15200’
MCA for aircraft traveling West along V330 to cross JAC at 13400’
MTA for aircraft crossing over and turning at JAC:
Aircraft traveling NE on V465 and turning to V330 on a W heading
or turning to V520 on a W heading must turn at altitude of 16000’
or higher
Aircraft traveling E on V520 and turning to V330 on a W heading
must turn at altitude of 14200’
Aircraft traveling E on V330 and turning to V520 on a W heading
must turn at altitude of 16000’ or higher
Aircraft traveling NW on V328 and turning to V465 on a SW head -
ing must turn at altitude of 15100’ or higher.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
87Airspace Information (Continued)
Enroute Chart Examples
High Enroute Chart
Reference Number
2Description
High RNAV Route with MEA for DME/DME/IRU RNAV
Aircraft
MEA of 24,000’
Preferred Directional Jet Route with Time Restrictions
Jet Route 34 available between 1100 - 0300Z
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
Enroute Chart Examples
High Enroute Chart (Continued)
Reference Number
3Description
Preferred Directional Jet Route with Time Restrictions,
MAA and MEA
Jet Route 149 available between 1100 - 0300Z
MAA - 41,000’
MEA - 31,000’AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
AIRSPACE BOUNDARIES
LOW / HIGH CHARTS
Air Defense
Identification Zone (ADIZ)
CANADA ADIZALASKA ADIZ
Adjoining ADIZ
Air Traffic Service LOW / HIGH CHARTS
Identification Data
Ceiling
Floor
Call Sign
Frequency
Ceiling
Floor
Call Sign
Frequency
Flight Information Regions (FIR)
LOW / HIGH CHARTS
Upper Information Regions
(UIR)
Upper Control Areas (UTA)
LOW / HIGH CHARTS
Air Route Traffic Control
Center (ARTCC)
ARTCC Remoted Sites with
discrete VHF and UHF frequencies
Air Route Traffic Control Center
(ARTCC) with Controller Pilot
Data Link Communications
(CPDLC)
Altimeter Setting Change
LOW / HIGH CHARTS
Control Areas (CTA)
Adjoining CTA
Additional Control Areas
LOW ALTITUDE
HIGH ALTITUDE
Foreign Airspace NoteARTCC Name
Site Name
Frequency
MIAMI OCEANIC CTA/FIR KZMANEW YORK OCEANIC CTA/FIR KZWY
CONTROL 1419 H
NOTE: Limited chart information provided outside U.S. airspace.
Refer to DoD (NGA) or foreign charts and flight information
publications outside U.S. airspace.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
89AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Airspace - U.S.
Class A
High Chart Only
Controlled
Airspace
Class B
Low Chart Only
Controlled
Airspace
Mode C Area
Low Chart Only
Controlled
AirspaceOpen Area (White)
That airspace from 18,000’ MSL to and including FL 600,
including the airspace overflying the waters within 12 NM
of the coast of the contiguous United States and Alaska
and designated offshore areas, excluding Santa Barbara
Island, Farallon Island, the airspace south of latitude
25° 04’00” N, the Alaska peninsula west of longitude
160°00’00” W, and the airspace less than 1,500’ AGL.
That airspace from 18,000’ MSL to and including FL
450, including Santa Barbara Island, Farallon Island, the
Alaska peninsula west of longitude 160°00’00” W, and
designated offshore areas.
Screened Blue with a Solid Blue Outline
M
ODE C & ADS-B OUT30 NM 30 NMMODE C & ADS-B OUT
That airspace from the surface to 10,000’ MSL (unless
otherwise designated) surrounding the nation’s busi -
est airports. Each Class B airspace area is individually
tailored and consists of a surface area and two or more
layers.
A Solid Blue Outline
That airspace within 30 NM of the primary airports of
Class B airspace and within 10 NM of designated airports.
Mode-C transponder and ADS-B Out equipment is re -
quired. (See FAR 91.215)Example:
MODE C & ADS-B OUT
M
ODE C & ADS-B OUT
Example:
See Chart example above.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
CLASS C
Low Chart Only
Controlled Air -
space
CLASS D
Low Chart Only
Controlled Air -
spaceScreened Blue with a Solid Blue Dashed Outline
That airspace from the surface to 4,000’ (unless other -
wise designated) above the elevation of selected airports
(charted in MSL). The normal radius of the outer limits of
Class C airspace is 10NM. Class C airspace is also indi -
cated by the letter C in a box following the airport name.
Open Area (White)
That airspace from the surface to 2,500’ unless otherwise
designated) above the airport elevation (charted in MSL),
surrounding those airports that have an operational con -
trol tower. Class D airspace is indicated by the letter D in
a box following the airport name.Example:
Example:AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Airspace - U.S. (Continued)
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
91Airspace Information (Continued)
AIRSPACE - U.S.
CLASS E
Low Chart Only
Controlled Air -
space
CLASS G
High and Low
Chart
Uncontrolled
AirspaceOpen Area (White)
The controlled airspace below 14,500’ MSL that is not
Class B, C or D.
Federal Airways from 1,200’ AGL to but not including
18,000’ MSL (unless otherwise specified).
Other designated control areas below 14,500’ MSL.
Not Charted
That airspace from 14,500’ MSL to but not including
18,000’ MSL, including the airspace overflying the waters
within 12 NM of the coast of the contiguous United States
and Alaska and designated offshore areas, excluding the
Alaska peninsula west of longitude 160°00’00” W, and the
airspace less than 1,500’ AGL.
Screened Brown Area
Low Altitude
That portion of the airspace below 14,500’ MSL that has
not been designated as Class B, C, D or E Airspace.
High Altitude
That portion of the airspace from 18,000’ MSL and above
that has not been designated as Class A airspace.Example:
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Special Use Airspace - U.S.
Low and High
Charts
Low Charts OnlyP - Prohibited Area
R - Restricted Area
W - Warning Area
See Airspace Tabulation on each chart for complete
documentation information on:
Area Identification
Effective Altitude
Operating Times
Controlling Agency Voice Call
A - Alert Area
* Alert Areas do not extend into Class A, B, C and D air -
space, or Class E airport surface areas.
MOA - Military Operations Area
See Airspace Tabulation on each chart for complete
documentation information on:
Area Identification
Effective Altitude
Operating Times
Controlling Agency Voice CallExample: P-56 -
Washington DC, Area A-1 Chart
Example: P-40 and R-4009 -
Washington DC, Area A-1 Chart
Example: R3601A -
Example: W-50
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
93AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Off Route Obstruction Clearance Altitude (OROCA)
Low Charts Only OROCA is computed similarly to the Maximum Elevation
Figure (MEF) found on Visual charts except that it pro -
vides an additional vertical buffer of 1,000 feet in desig -
nated non-mountainous areas and a 2,000 foot vertical
buffer in designated mountainous areas within the United
States.
Example: 12,500 feetExample: Low L-13 Chart
Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA)
Low and High
ChartsSFRA Symbology Example: Low Chart (Washington Area Chart)
Example: High Chart (H-12)
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
Cruising Altitudes - Low Charts - U.S. Only
IFR outside controlled airspace.
IFR within controlled airspace as
assigned by ATC.
ALL courses are magnetic.
VFR above 3000’ AGL
unless otherwise
authorized by ATC.
Cruising Altitudes - High Charts - U.S. Only
IFR within controlled airspace 18,000’ MSL to FL280
as assigned by ATC
All courses are magnetic.
VFR or VFR On Top
add 500’
No VFR flights within
Class A Airspace above
3000’ AGL unless
otherwise authorized RVSM Levels FL290 to FL410 FL430 and above
No VFR or VFR On Top
authorized above FL285 in
RVSM airspace.NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATIONFAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
95MORSE CODEISOGONIC LINE AND LOW/HIGH CHARTS
VALUE
ENLARGEMENT AREATIME ZONE
All time is Coordinated Universal
Time (UTC)
During periods of Day -
lights Savings Time (DT),
effective hours will be one
hour earlier than shown.
All states observe DT ex -
cept Arizona and Hawaii
MATCH MARK LOW/HIGH CHARTS
HYDROGRAPHY
SHORELINES
TOPOGRAPHY
TERRAIN
Area ChartsCULTURE
Boundaries
LOW/HIGH ALTITUDE International
U.S./Russia Maritime Line LOW/HIGH ALTITUDEDate Line LOW/HIGH ALTITUDENavigational and Procedural Information (Continued)
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology
U.S. TERMINAL PROCEDURES PUBLICATION
The U.S. Terminal Procedures Publication (TPPs) includes the Instrument Approach Procedures (IAPs), Departure Proce -
dures (DPs) charts, Standard Terminal Arrival (STAR) charts, Charted Visual Flight Procedure (CVFP) charts, and Airport
Diagrams. Also included are Takeoff Minimums, (Obstacle) Departure Procedures, Diverse Vector Area (RADAR Vectors),
RADAR and Alternate Minimum textual procedures.
EXPLANATION OF TPP TERMS AND SYMBOLS
The information and examples in this section are based primarily on the IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) Terminal Proce -
dures Publication (TPP). The publication legends list aeronautical symbols with a brief description of what each symbol
depicts. This section will provide more detailed information of some of the symbols and how they are used on TPP charts.
FAA Terminal charts are prepared in accordance with specifications of the Interagency Air Committee (IAC) and their sup -
porting technical groups for the purpose of standardization, which are approved by representatives of the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), and the Department of Defense (DoD).
The Terminal Procedure Publication is made up of the following charts:
• Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) Charts
• Airport Diagrams
• Departure Procedures (DP)
• Standard Terminal Arrival (STAR) Charts
• Charted Visual Flight Procedure (CVFP) Charts
97FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
INSTRUMENT APPROACH PROCEDURE CHART
The IAPs (charts) are divided into various sections:
Margin Identification Information Profile View
Briefing Strip Information Landing Minimums
Planview Airport Sketch
Missed Approach Information
Airport
Sketch
Informa tion
I nforma tion
Landing
Minima
Plan view
NOT FOR
NAVIGA TION
98FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Margin Identification Information
The margin identification at the top, bottom, and sides of the chart provides information about the airport location, proce -
dure identification, and chart currency. The charts are organized by city first, then airport name and state, with the excep -
tion of military charts, which are organized by airport name. Going from the top of the chart, reading from left to right, and
going down the chart, Margin Identification Information is organized in the following way .
The hash marks along the top and bottom borders of military Instrument Approach Charts indicate that the procedure
was designed using High Altitude criteria contained in FAA Order 8260.3. These procedures are designed to support high
performance military aircraft operations and are not intended for civilian use.
99FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Top Margin Information:
The city and state with which the airport is associated are located on both the top and bottom margins.
At the center of the top margin is the FAA numbering system. This Approach and Landing (AL) number is followed by the
organization responsible for the procedure in parentheses, e.g., AL-18 (FAA). Military procedures do no show an AL num -
ber, but do show the appropriate authority for the procedure, e.g., (USAF).
The procedure title is located on both the top and bottom margins. It is derived from the type of navigational facility that is
providing the final approach course guidance. The title is abbreviated, e.g. ILS, RNAV, NDB, etc. For airports with parallel
runways and simultaneous approach procedures, “L”, “R” or “C” follows the runway number to distinguish between left,
right, and center runways.
The airport name is shown on both the top and bottom margins below the procedure title. The airport identifier is shown
in parentheses following the airport name. Civil and joint-use airports outside the contiguous United States will be shown
with the FAA airport location identifier followed by the ICAO location indicator. Military airports that are not joint-use will be
shown with only the ICAO location indicator.
The Date of Latest Revision is shown on the top margin above the procedure title. The Date of Latest Revision identifies
the Julian date the chart was last revised for any reason. The first two digits indicate the year, the last three digits indicate
the day of the year (001 to 365/6).
Year|Day of Year
Side Margin Information:
The side margins show the volume identification, i.e. SW-3, followed by the current issue date and the next issue date,
e.g. SW-3, 21 JUL 2016 to 15 SEP 2016.
Bottom Margin Information:
The FAA Procedure Amendment Number, located on the left bottom margin below the City, State, represents the most
current amendment of a given procedure. The Procedure Amendment Effective Date represents the AIRAC cycle date on
which the procedure amendment was incorporated into the chart. Updates to the amendment number and effective date
represent procedural/criteria revisions to the charted procedure, e.g., course, fix, altitude, minima, etc.
Example: Original Procedure Date
Example: Amendment Procedure Date
The coordinates for the airport reference point are located at the center of the bottom margin.
100FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
BRIEFING STRIP INFORMATION
At the top of every TPP is the Briefing Strip that consists of three stacked strips of information immediately above the plan -
view. Information varies depending upon the type of procedure.
Top Briefing Strip
The top briefing strip contains procedural information in three separate boxes, in the following sequence from left to right:
NAVAID
Info
• Box 1: Primary Procedure Navigation Information: The primary navigation type (VOR, LOC, NDB, RNAV, etc.)
with its identifier and frequency/channel. If applicable, WAAS, the WAAS Channel Number, and the WAAS Refer -
ence Path indicator are shown stacked top to bottom. If the primary navigation type is GBAS, then the following
information is shown, stacked top to bottom: GBAS, CH NNNN, RPI XXXX. If there is not a primary Navigation
Box required, the first box is removed.
• Box 2: Final Approach Course Information . The inbound Approach Course (APP CRS) is shown.
• Box 3: Runway Landing Information: Stacked top to bottom, the runway landing distance (Rwy Ldg), the
Touchdown Zone Elevation (TDZE), and the Airport Elevation (Apt Elev) are shown. Runway landing distance is
determined by comparing the total runway length with the displaced threshold accounted for against the published
Declared Distance Landing Distance Available (LDA). The shortest of these lengths, either the published Declared
Distance LDA or the total runway length (minus displaced threshold) on the approach end of the runway, will be
charted.
Top Briefing Strip Examples:
Ground based NAVAID:
RNAV-WAAS:
101FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
GBAS:
No Primary NAVAID box:
Circling Approach:
Sidestep Procedure:
Middle Briefing Strip
The middle briefing strip may contain information in up to three separate boxes, when available, in the following sequence
from left to right:
NOTES BOXMISSED APPROACH
PROCEDURE TEXT BOXAPPROACH
LIGHTING
SYSTEM
• Box 1: Notes Box: contains procedure notes, Equipment/Requirements Notes box and Takeoff, Alternate, RA -
DAR, WAAS, and/or Cold Weather indicators (details provided below under Notes Box).
• Box 2: Approach Lighting System Box (when applicable): shows the approach lighting system name and
charting icon. Multiple approach lighting systems may be shown for approaches that have straight-in minimums
for parallel runways.
• Box 3: Missed Approach Procedure Text Box: The full textual description of the missed approach procedure is
provided here.
102FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Notes Box
Procedure Equipment Requirements Notes Box
Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) Requirements and ground-based Equipment Requirements are displayed in sepa -
rate, standardized notes boxes. For procedures with PBN elements, the PBN box contains the procedure’s navigation
specification(s). If required, specific sensors or infrastructure needed for the navigation solution, additional or advanced
functional requirements, and the minimum Required Navigation Performance (RNP) value and any amplifying remarks
will also be included. Items listed in this PBN box are REQUIRED. The separate Equipment Requirements Box will list
ground-based equipment requirements.
On procedures with both PBN elements and ground-based equipment requirements, the PBN requirements box is listed
first.
Remote Altimeter Airport Notes
Approach minimums are based on the local altimeter setting for that airport unless annotated otherwise. When more than
one altimeter source is authorized, and the minima are different, they will be shown by separate lines in the approach
minima box or as a note in the briefing strip; e.g., use MHK altimeter setting; when not available use SLN altimeter setting
and increase all MDAs 40 feet. The altimeter source location is referenced by the FAA airport identifier. An airport outside
the contiguous U.S. will use both the FAA and ICAO identifiers. Until all charts reference the airport identifier, the notes
may contain altimeter sources referenced by city name, city and state, or airport name.
Notes Symbols
Several different symbols may appear within the Notes Box:
An entry is published in the Takeoff Minimums, (Obstacle) Departure Procedures, and Diverse Vector Area
(Radar Vectors) section of the TPP.
Non-standard IFR alternate minimums exist. Refer to IFR Alternate Airport Minimums section of the TPP.
The IAP may not be used as an alternate due to unmonitored facility, absence of weather reporting service, or
lack of adequate navigation coverage. IAPs designated with this symbol are not listed in the IFR Alternate
Minimums section of the TPP.
WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System)
Cold Temperature Airport
The negative
within a black square box symbol shown in the Notes section below any “A” or “T” Symbol indicates that
outages of the WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) vertical guidance may occur daily at this location due to initial
system limitations. WAAS NOTAMs for vertical outages are not provided for this approach. Use LNAV minima for flight
planning at these locations, whether as a destination or alternate. For flight operations at these locations, when the W AAS
avionics indicate that LNAV/VNAV or LPV service is available, then vertical guidance may be used to complete the ap -
proach using the displayed level of service. Should an outage occur during the procedure, reversion to LNAV minima may
be required.
103FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
When appears in the Notes section below all other symbols it indicates a cold temperature altitude correction is
required at that airport when the reported temperature is at or below the published temperature. Advise ATC with alti -
tude correction. Advising ATC with altitude corrections is not required in the final segment. See Aeronautical Information
Manual (AIM), Chapter 7, for guidance and additional information. For a complete list of cold temperature airports, see
https://aeronav.faa.gov/d-tpp/Cold_Temp_Airports.pdf .
When “ASR”, “PAR” or “ASR/PAR” appear in the Note section immediately below the “T” and “A” symbols it indicates there
are published Radar Instrument Approach Minimums. Where radar is approved for approach control service, it is used
not only for radar approaches (Airport Surveillance Radar [ASR] and Precision Approach Radar [PAR]) but is also used to
provide vectors in conjunction with published non-radar approaches based on radio NAVAIDs (ILS, VOR, NDB, TACAN).
Radar vectors can provide course guidance and expedite traffic to the final approach course of any established IAP or to
the traffic pattern for a visual approach.
Bottom Briefing Strip (Communications Information)
The communications briefing strip contains communication information when available, in separate boxes, listed from left
to right in the order that they would be used during arrival with the tower frequency box bolded:
• ATIS, D-ATIS, AFIS (AK Only) or ASOS/AWOS frequencies (when available, ATIS or AFIS will be the only local
weather frequency/s published)
• The primary Approach Control (APP CON) name and frequencies; when the primary approach service is provided
by other than Approach Control, e.g. FSS (Radio), Tower, Center, the appropriate air traffic facility call name is
provided
• The Control Tower (TOWER) name and frequencies, to include Precision Radar Monitoring (PRM) and frequency
• Ground Control (GND CON) frequencies
• Clearance Delivery (CLNC DEL) frequencies; where a Control Tower does not exist or is part-time, a remoted
CLNC DEL may be listed.
• Ground Communications Outlet (GCO) frequency
• Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF), shown in parentheses when shares a frequency, e.g. UNICOM
122.8 (CTAF)
• UNICOM or AUNICOM frequency
• Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC)
Note: Part-time operations will be annotated with a star. Check Chart Supplement for times of operation.
Note: Departure ATIS, CLNC DEL, and CPDLC will not be charted on the IAP at locations where the information is shown
on the corresponding Airport Diagram.
104FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
PLANVIEW
The planview of the IAP charts provides an overhead view of the entire instrument approach procedure.The data on the
planview is shown to scale, unless concentric rings, scale breaks or an inset have been used.
Planview Items
Approach Segments Hydrography
NAVAIDs International Boundary
Area Navigation (RNAV) Waypoints Obstacles (Man-made, Terrain and Vegetation)
Restrictive Airspeeds Special Use Airspace
Restrictive Altitudes Minimum Safe Altitude
Holding Patterns and Procedure Turns Terminal Arrival Areas
Airports Helicopter (Copter) Procedures
Relief (Contours)
Approach Segments
The planview includes a graphical depiction of procedure entry through missed approach.
Simple IAP Example
Legend:
Feeder Route Initial Approach Intermediate Approach Final Approach Course Missed Approach
NAVIGA TIONNOT FOR
105FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
NOT FOR
NAVIGATION
Complex IAP Example with RF Legs
• Feeder Routes (highlighted in blue - See Simple IAP Example on previous page) may be used to provide a tran -
sition from the enroute structure to the IAF.
• Initial Approach (highlighted in purple in examples above) is the segment between the initial approach fix (IAF)
and the intermediate fix (IF) or the point where the aircraft is established on the intermediate course or final ap -
proach course.
• Intermediate Approach (highlighted in yellow in examples above) is the segment between the intermediate fix or
point and the final approach fix.
• Final Approach Course (highlighted in red in the examples above) is the segment between the final approach fix
or point and the runway, airport, or missed approach point.
• Missed Approach (highlighted in green in the example above) begins at the MAP and continues until the desig -
nated fix or waypoint. The missed approach track is shown as a hash marked line in the planview. If any portion of
the missed approach procedure track falls outside of the area of the planview it will be shown in a separate box in
the planview.
106FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
• DME arcs or Radius-to-Fix legs (RF) are shown as smooth arcs from a designated start point to a designated
terminus. RF legs depict the altitude and distance. In order to differentiate RF legs from Track to Fix (TF) legs on
IAPs that contain one or more RF legs, the course value will always be shown on all TF legs.
• Visual segment - Instrument approach procedures, including Copter approach procedures, that terminate or
have missed approaches prior to the airport/heliport, and are authorized to proceed visually, will depict the visual
flight path by a dashed line symbol from the missed approach point to the airport.
On RNAV charts where the visual track may only apply to a specific line of minima, the visual procedure track line
will not be shown in the planview. There will be a note directed to that portion of the procedure track.
Traditional (NAVAID) Approach RNAV Approach
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
NAVAIDs
NAVAIDs used on ground based charts will show the appropriate symbol accompanied by a data box that contains the
facility name, frequency, identifier and Morse code. A NAVAID box with a heavy line indicates the primary NAVAID used for
the approach.
NAVAIDs used on GPS based charts show the appropriate symbol identified with the name and identifier.
Primary NAVAID - LOC Secondary NAVAID - VORTAC
Primary NAVAID - NDB/DME Secondary NAVAID - NDB/DME
NAVAID - ILS Approach NAVAID - RNAV Approach
Area Navigation (RNAV) Waypoints
Waypoints are shown with the waypoint symbol accompanied by the five letter identifier. If an RNAV waypoint is collocated
with an intersection, DME fix, or NAVAID, the appropriate Intersection, DME fix, or NAVAID symbol will be charted.
ELIZE
On RNAV (RNP) charts, any requirement/capability notes are depicted below the fix/waypoint/NAVAID name. When
the required RNP lateral accuracy value for any approach segment other than final approach (e.g. feeder, initial and/or
intermediate or missed) are less than standard (RNP 2.00 for feeder, RNP 1.00 for initial and/or intermediate and missed),
a note stating the required RNP value may be placed adjacent to the applicable fix at the beginning of the Feeder Route
(or annotated in the PBN box). If there is more than one lateral accuracy value within these portions of the procedure, the
lowest value is annotated. These notes will take the form “RNP 0.XX, or Min RNP 0.XX” and will be located in close prox -
imity to the relevant fix name (or be identified in the PBN Box).
SHNON
(RNP 0.50)
108FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Localizer Depiction
The localizer is depicted in the Planview using the following symbol. The size of the charted localizer symbol does not
serve as an indication of the service volume.
Restrictive Airspeed
Restrictive airspeeds are shown paired with their respective fix/facility .
Type Description Example
Recommended Speed Recommended speed is depicted with no lines above or below it
Minimum Speed Minimum speed is depicted as a number with a line below it
Maximum Speed Maximum speed is depicted as a number with a line above it
Mandatory Speed Mandatory speed is depicted as a number with a line above and below it
Altitudes
Restrictive altitudes are shown paired with their respective fix/ facility . Minimum, Maximum, Mandatory and Recommend -
ed Altitudes are shown.
Type Description Example
Recommended Altitude Recommended altitude is depicted with no lines above or below it
Minimum Altitude Minimum altitude is depicted as a number with a line below it
Maximum Altitude Maximum altitude is depicted as a number with a line above it
Mandatory Altitude Mandatory altitude is depicted as a number with a line above and below it
Mandatory Block
AltitudeMandatory block altitude is depicted with a minimum and a maximum altitude.
Altitudes that are shown along a route are minimum altitudes.
109FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Holding Patterns and Procedure Turns
Holding Patterns are used for many reasons, including deteriorating weather or high traffic volume. Holding might also be
required following a missed approach. Each holding pattern has a fix, a direction to hold from the fix, and an airway , bear -
ing, course, radial, or route on which the aircraft is to hold. These elements, along with the direction of the turns, define
the holding pattern. Holding Patterns may not always be depicted to scale.
Missed Approach Hold In-Lieu of Procedure Turn Arrival
If a holding pattern has a non-standard speed restriction, it will be depicted by an icon with the limiting air speed shown
inside the holding pattern symbol. These elements, along with the direction of the turns, define the holding pattern. If two
types of holds are located at the same point, the procedural holding pattern will be shown in-lieu of arrival or missed ap -
proach holding patterns. Timing or distance limits for Hold-in-lieu of Procedure Turn Holding Patterns will be shown.
Waypoints designated as a holding fix are shown as fly-by, without the circle around the symbol. However, in the event the
holding fix/waypoint is also designated in all other parts of the procedure unrelated to holding with a fly-over function, then
the holding fix/waypoint will be charted as a fly-over point.
A procedure turn (PT) is the maneuver prescribed to perform a course reversal to establish the aircraft inbound on an
intermediate or final approach course. The procedure turn or hold-in-lieu-of procedure turn is a required maneuver when it
is depicted on the approach chart. However, the procedure turn or the hold-in-lieu-of PT is not permitted when the symbol
“NoPT” is depicted on the initial segment being flown, when a RADAR VECT OR to the final approach course is provided,
or when conducting a timed approach from a holding fix. The procedure turn will be shown in the planview and in the
profile of the chart. In the planview, the tip of the procedure turn barb is shown at the procedure turn limit, e.g., 10 NM, 15
NM. Users should be aware that it is possible for there to be a terminal/feeder fix along the procedure track that is not as -
sociated with the procedure turn. Fixes associated with the procedure turn are depicted in the profile.
Airports
The primary approach airport is shown to scale by a pattern of all the runways. Airports other than the primary approach
airport may be shown with an airport pattern and name when in close proximity to the primary airport.
110FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Relief (Contours)
Relief (Contours) is depicted in the planview portion of all IAPs at airports that meet the following criteria:
• If the terrain within the planview exceeds 4,000 feet above the airport elevation, or
• If the terrain within a 6.0 nautical mile radius of the Airport Reference Point (ARP) rises to at least 2,000 feet
above the airport elevation.
When an airport meets either of the above criteria, terrain will be charted by gradient tints of brown on all IAPs for that air -
port. Contour layers will be shown in no more than five brown tints, with consecutively darker tints used for consecutively
higher elevation contour layers.
Hydrography (Water)
Water Depiction is depicted in grey, in the planview portion of IAPs. See previous example. The following hydrographic
features are shown:
• Oceans
• Significant rivers and streams
• Significant lakes - If only one river or one small lake is involved, not located in the immediate airport vicinity , the
hydrographic information requirement may be waived.
International Boundary
When the planview includes a boundary of another country
the International boundaries are shown by a dashed line.
International boundaries are identified with country name
within the country area.
111FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Obstacles
Procedural obstacles specifically indicated for charting by the approving authority will be charted. Obstacles identified as
vegetation or ships will be indicated by a doubtful accuracy symbol
following the elevation value.
Procedure Obstacle
Special Use Airspace (SUA)
SUAs consists of that airspace wherein activities must be confined because of their nature, or
wherein limitations are imposed upon aircraft operations that are not a part of those activi -
ties, or both. These are prohibited areas, restricted areas, warning areas, Military Operations
Areas (MOAs), and alert areas. SUA that falls within the area of coverage of the instrument
approach procedure chart are shown only when designated by the approving authority.
Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ)
ADIZ is an area of airspace in which the identification, location, and control of aircraft is re -
quired in the interest of national security. When designated by the approving authority, ADIZ
boundaries that fall within the area of coverage of the chart are shown.
Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)
MSAs are published for emergency use on IAP charts. MSAs appear in the planview of all IAPs except on approaches
for which a Terminal Arrival Area (TAA) is used. The MSA is based on the primary NAVAID, waypoint, or airport reference
point on which the IAP is predicated. The MSA depiction on the approach chart contains the identifier of the NAVAID/way -
point/airport used to determine the MSA altitudes. MSAs are expressed in feet above mean sea level and normally have
a 25 NM radius; however, this radius may be expanded to 30 NM if necessary to encompass the airport landing surfaces.
Ideally, a single sector altitude is established and depicted on the planview of approach charts; however, when necessary
to obtain relief from obstructions, the area may be further sectored and as many as four MSAs established. When estab -
lished, sectors may be no less than 90° in spread. MSAs provide 1,000 feet clearance over all obstructions but do not
necessarily assure acceptable navigation signal coverage.
Single MSA Multiple MSA’s
112FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Terminal Arrival Areas (TAAs)
The TAA icons will be positioned in the planview relative to their relationship to the procedure. The icon will not have
feeder routes, airways, or radar vectors depicted. The TAA provides a transition from the enroute structure to the terminal
environment with little required pilot/air traffic control interface for aircraft equipped with Area Navigation (RNAV) systems.
A standard TAA has three areas: straight-in, left base, and right base. The arc boundaries of the three areas of the TAA
are published portions of the approach. A TAA provides minimum altitudes with standard obstacle clearance when operat -
ing within the TAA boundaries. TAAs are primarily used on RNAV approaches but may be used on an ILS approach when
RNAV is the sole means for navigation to the IF; however, they are not normally used in areas of heavy concentration of
air traffic.
Example of Standard TAA
Non-standard TAAs may also be published; i.e., one base leg, no base legs.
Example of Non-Standard TAA
113FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Helicopter (Copter) Procedures
Copter procedures may contain either a visual or a VFR segment. Visual segments are depicted using the dashed line
symbol below.
Visual Flight Segment
VFR Segments are not depicted with a line, but include the reference bearing and distance information at the endpoint of
the VFR Segment, when provided, as shown below.
Example of Copter with VFR Segment (JFK)
114FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
MISSED APPROACH INFORMATION
Missed approach information is shown in 3 locations on the chart:
• The Middle Briefing Strip - The complete textual missed approach instructions are provided at the top of the ap -
proach chart in the middle pilot briefing strip.
• The Planview - The missed approach track is drawn using a thin, hash marked line with a directional arrow. If any
portion of the missed approach procedure track is off the chart, the missed approach track shall extend to the
chart border.
Missed approach holding patterns that lie outside the geographic parameters of the planview and are unable to be shown
with a scale break will be shown as a boxed inset. All alternate missed approach holding patterns will be shown in an inset.
• The Profile Box - Missed Approach Icons will be depicted in the upper left or upper right of the profile box. The
Missed Approach Icons are intended to provide quick, at a glance intuitive guidance to the pilot, to supplement
the textual missed approach instructions in the briefing strip. Space permitting, all textual missed approach in -
structions will be graphically depicted in sequence. If space does not permit the depiction of all missed approach
icons, only the first four icon boxes will be shown.
Example Missed Approach Icons Missed Approach Text
MISSED APPROACH: Climb to 13000 on RIL VOR/DME
R-250 to TEKGU INT/RIL 19 DME and on EKR VOR/DME
R-179 to WOKPA/EKR 44.2 DME and hold, continue climb-in-
hold to 13000.
MISSED APPROACH: Climbing left turn to 8000 via SVC
R-128, then reverse course to SVC VOR/DME and hold.
MISSED APPROACH: Climb to 9000 on track 112° to JETRY,
cross JETRY at or above 6700, and on track 112° to PAKPE,
right turn to WULKU, and on track 289° to JNC VOR/DME and
hold.
MISSED APPROACH: Climb to 14000 via 174° course to
HOMDU and via 160° track to DEVEC and 160° track to FTI
VORTAC and hold.
MISSED APPROACH: Climb to 5800, then climbing left turn to
10000 via heading 190° and SVC VOR/DME R-193 to KUNRE
INT/SVC VOR/DME 24.1 DME and hold.
115FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
PROFILE VIEW
A profile diagram of the instrument approach procedure is shown below the planview. The published descent profile and
graphical depiction of the vertical path using those facilities, intersections, fixes, etc. identified in the procedure to the
runway are shown. A profile view of the procedure track is shown. The approach track begins toward the top of the pri -
mary facility line, unless otherwise dictated by the procedure, and shall descend to where the final approach ends and the
missed approach begins.
When a reference mark (*, **, #, etc.) is shown in the profile, the qualifying footnote is provided within the profile section.
116FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Precision Approaches
On precision approaches, the glideslope (GS) intercept altitude is illustrated by a zigzag line and an altitude. This is the
minimum altitude for GS interception after completion of the procedure turn. Precision approach profiles also depict the
GS angle of descent, threshold crossing height (TCH) and GS altitude at the outer marker (OM) or designated fix. The
missed approach track is symbolized using the hatched line pattern. Where separate missed approach points exist for
precision and non-precision approaches on the same chart, e.g., ILS and LOC, the track will be shown from the precision
point only.
Traditional (NAVAID) Approach RNAV Approach
Non-Precision Approaches
On non-precision approaches, the final segment begins at the Final Approach Fix (FAF), which is identified with the Mal -
tese cross symbol
. When no FAF is depicted, the final approach point is the point at which the aircraft is established in -
bound on the final approach course. Stepdown fixes may also be provided between the F AF and the airport for authorizing
a lower minimum descent altitude (MDA) and are depicted with the fix or facility name and a dashed line. Altitude restric -
tions at stepdown fixes on the final approach on procedures with both precision and non-precision minima are not appli -
cable to precision (ILS, LPV, or LNAV/VNAV) use of the approach. On non-precision only approach procedures, the ap -
proach track descends to the MDA or VDP point, thence horizontally to the missed approach point. The missed approach
track on non-precision approaches is symbolized using the hatched line pattern and begins at the missed approach point.
Traditional (NAVAID) Approach RNAV Approach
Visual Decent Point (VDP)
The Visual Descent Point (VDP), is shown by a bold letter “V” positioned above the procedure track and centered on the
accompanying dashed line. (See example below.) The VDP is a defined point on the final approach course of a non-
precision straight-in approach procedure from which normal descent from the MDA to the runway touchdown point may be
commenced.
117FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Vertical Descent Angle (VDA) and Threshold Crossing Heights (TCH)
A VDA and TCH may be published on non-precision approaches. For Copter approach procedures, a Heliport Crossing
Height (HCH) will be depicted in place of the TCH. The VDA is strictly advisory and provides a means to establish a stabi -
lized descent to the MDA. The presence of a VDA does not guarantee obstacle protection in the visual segment. If there
are obstacles in the visual segment that could cause an aircraft to destabilize the approach between MDA and touchdown,
the profile will not show a VDA and will instead show a note that states “Visual Segment-Obstacles”.
Visual Flight Path
Instrument approach procedures, including Copter approach procedures, that terminate or have missed approaches prior
to the airport, and are authorized to proceed visual, shall depict the visual segment by the dashed line symbol from the
missed approach point to the airport. The note “Fly visual” (“Proceed visually” on Copter procedures) along with the bear -
ing and distance shall be shown leadered to the visual flight path.
RNAV charts sometimes have visual flight for LNAV/VNAV minima that do not start at the missed approach point. An ad -
ditional note indicating “LNAV/VNAV” will be placed above the note.
Copter approach procedures with a VFR segment from the missed approach point will not depict the VFR segment with a
line in the profile. The note similar to “Proceed VFR from MAP” will be shown.
Copter VFR Segment
Chart Examples
Traditional (NAVAID) Approach RNAV Approach
ILS Glide Slope and RNAV Glidepath
A note providing the glide slope (GS) or glidepath (GP) angle and the threshold crossing height (TCH), are positioned in
the lower half of the profile box
• GS will be shown on all ILS procedures.
• GP will be shown GLS procedures and all RNAV procedures with a published decision altitude
Threshold Crossing Height (TCH) has been traditionally used in “precision” approaches as the height of the glide slope
above threshold. With publication of LNAV/VNAV minimums and RNAV descent angles, including graphically depicted
descent profiles, TCH also applies to the height of the “descent angle,” or glidepath, at the threshold.
118FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
34:1 Surface Clear Symbol
On RNAV approach charts, a small shaded arrowhead shaped symbol from the end of the VDA to the runway indicates
that the 34:1 Obstacle Clearance Surface (OCS) for the visual segment is clear of obstacles. The absence of the symbol
indicates that the 34:1 OCS is not clear or a Visual Segment-Obstacles note is indicated on the chart. (See example in
VDP Section.)
Secondary Airports
Airports other than the airport of intended landing will be shown when requested and will be portrayed in the same manner
as the primary airport. It will be placed in its approximate location along the final approach course.
119FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
LANDING MINIMUMS
The landing minimums section is positioned directly below the profile. This section gives the pilot the lowest altitude and
visibility requirements for the approach. There are two types of landing minimums: Straight-in landing or Circling. Straight-
in landing minimums are the MDA and visibility, or DA and visibility, required for a straight-in landing on a specified runway.
Circling minimums are the MDA and visibility required for the circle-to-land maneuver.
The minimums for straight-in and circling are located under each aircraft category. When there is not a division line be -
tween minimums for each category, the minimums apply to two or more categories.
A second category of straight-in minimums called "sidestep" may be depicted where parallel runways exist.
The terms used to describe the minimum approach altitudes differ between precision and nonprecision approaches. Preci -
sion approaches use DA and nonprecision approaches use MDA, both expressed in feet MSL. The minimum approach
altitudes are also referenced to height above touchdown elevation (HAT) for straight-in approaches, or height above
airport (HAA) for circling approaches. The figures listed parenthetically are for military operations and are not used in civil
aviation.
The visibility values are shown after the DA or MDA. They are provided in statue miles or runway visual range (RVR). RVR
is reported in hundreds of feet. If the visibility is in statute miles, there is an altitude number, hyphen, whole or fractional
number, e.g. 530-1. This indicates 530 feet MSL and 1 statute mile of visibility. The RVR value is separated from the
minimum altitude with a slash, e.g., 1540/24. This indicates 1540 feet MSL and RVR of 2400 feet. When an RVR value
is shown, the comparable statute mile equivalent is shown within the military minimums in parentheses as shown in the
examples above. This value is determined from the Comparable Values of RVR and Visibility table located in the TPP
Legend.
120FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
If a visibility adjustment is required for a procedure with an R VR value, the RVR value should first be converted to visibility
using this table. The visibility should then be increased by the adjustment value, and then may be converted back to the
highest RVR value associated with that visibility. For example, if a procedure with 2000 RVR requires a 1/8 mile adjust -
ment, first convert 2000 RVR to 1/2 SM. Adding 1/8 SM results in 5/8 SM, which may then be converted to 3500 RVR.
When a reference mark (*, **, #, etc.) is shown on a line of minimums, the qualifying footnote is provided in the notes sec -
tion.
AIRPORT SKETCH
The airport sketch is a depiction of the airport with emphasis on runway pattern and related
information, positioned in either the lower left or lower right corner of the chart to aid pi -
lot recognition of the airport from the air and to provide some information to aid on ground
navigation of the airport. The runways are drawn to scale and oriented to true north. Runway
dimensions (length and width) are shown for all active runways.
Runway(s) are depicted based on what type and construction of the runway.
Hard Surface Other Than
Hard SurfaceMetal Surface Closed Runway Under
Construction
Stopways,
Taxiways,
Parking AreasDisplaced
ThresholdClosed
PavementWater Runway
Taxiways, aprons, and hardstands are only shown at airports that do not have a published airport diagram.Other run -
way features that may be shown are runway numbers, runway dimensions, runway slope, arresting gear, and displaced
threshold.
Other information concerning lighting, airport beacon, control tower , NAVAIDs, and helipads may also be shown. The final
approach course or an extension of the final approach course will be shown on all IAPs except ILS CA T II, ILS CAT II & III,
ILS SA CAT I, ILS SA CAT II, and ILS SA CAT I & II.
121FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Airport Elevation and Touchdown Zone Elevation
The airport elevation is shown enclosed within a box in the upper left corner of the sketch box and the touchdown zone
elevation (TDZE) is shown in the upper right corner of the sketch box. The airport elevation is the highest point of an
airport’s usable runways measured in feet from mean sea level. The TDZE is the highest elevation in the first 3,000 feet of
the landing surface. Circling only approaches will not show a TDZE.
Runway Declared Distance Information
Runway declared distance information when available will be indicated by
and is shown to the right of the airport
elevation in the sketch box. Declared distances for a runway represent the maximum distances available and suitable for
meeting takeoff and landing distance performance requirements.
Runway Lights
Notes regarding approach lighting systems are shown at the bottom of the sketch box. Runway lights (HIRL) (MIRL)
(LIRL) (TDZL) (TDZL/RCLS) shall be indicated by a note, e.g. HIRL Rwy 9-27. Pilot capability to acitvate the airport light -
ing is shown using a symbol.
Other approach lighting is shown on the airport sketch as a symbol on the side of the runway
where they are actually located. Symbols that are shown in negative indicate pilot-controlled
lighting.
Runway centerline lights (RCLS) are installed on some precision approach runways to facili -
tate landing under adverse visibility conditions. They are located along the runway centerline
and are spaced at 50 foot intervals. Runways with RCLS are shown in a negative dot pattern
through the middle of the solid runway as illustrated in the airport sketch to right.
Runway centerline lights will be indicated by a note only when pilot controlled or when paired
with TDZL, e.g., TDZL/RCLS Rwys 10 and 33L.
Time/Distance Table
When applicable, a Time/Distance Table is provided below the airport sketch. The table pro -
vides the distance and time that is required from the final approach fix to the missed approach
point for select groundspeeds.
Base Information (Copter Approaches Only)
Base Information, as required and necessary to identify the MAP area and in the vicinity of the landing area shall be pro -
vided. Information shall be limited to and depict significant visual landmark features at and surrounding the MAP area and
the heliport/pad of intended landing.
AIRPORT DIAGRAMS
Airport Diagrams are specifically designed to assist in the movement of ground traffic at locations with complex runway/
taxiway configurations. Airport Diagrams are not intended for use in approach and landing or departure operations. An
airport diagram assists pilots in identifying their location on the airport, thus reducing requests for “progressive taxi instruc -
tions” from controllers.
122FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
Airport Diagram Features:
1. Runways
a. Complete with magnetic head -
ings (including magnetic variation
and epoch year) and identifiers.
b. Runways under construction
shall also be shown.
c. Runway dimensions, displaced
thresholds, runway end elevations.
d. Runway surface composition
e. Weight bearing capacity (land -
ing gear configuration or Pavement
Classification Number)
f. Land and Hold Short (LAHSO)
lines, ILS hold lines, Localizer/
Glide Slope Critical Areas.
g. Arresting Gear. To include Engi -
neered Materials Arresting System
(EMAS).
2. Taxiways, with identifiers. Taxiways
under construction shall also be
shown.
3. Hot Spot locations.
4. Parking areas, run-up pads, alert
areas, landing pads, “Non-Move -
ment” areas (where pilot is NOT
under air traffic control), ramps,
aprons and hold pads.
5. Turnarounds and run-up areas.
6. Stopways, overruns, and blast
pads.
7. Large tanks, including fueling area.
8. Control towers.
9. Airport beacon.
10. Landing direction indicators.
11. Lighting.
12. Navigational Aids (NAVAIDs).
13. Helicopter pads.
14. Radar reflectors.
15. Any building that pilot can taxi to. Other buildings to include terminal/administration and Base operations, fire sta -
tion, NWS, AFSS, FAA, FSDO, ANG, USCG, FBO.
16. Comm Frequencies.
Note: Star when used in the Comm Frequencies indicates part-time status. Check Chart Supplement for times of
operation.
123FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
124FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - TermsRunway Construction
Paved or hard surfaced runways consisting of concrete, asphalt, bitumen, or macadam are shown in solid color. Metal
surfaced runways are shown using a solid color crosshatch pattern. Ultralight areas, ski landing areas, unpaved or runway
other than hard surface, such as sod, clay, gravel, etc., is shown using a solid color dot pattern. Further details regarding
runway surface and surface treatment can be found in the Chart Supplement.
Runway construction is depicted as follows:
Hard Surface Other Than Hard
SurfaceMetal Surface Closed Runway Under Construction
Taxiways,
Parking AreasDisplaced
ThresholdClosed
PavementWater Runway Stopways,
Overruns,
Blast Pads
Hot Spots
Hot Spots (HS) are a runway safety related problem area or intersection on an airport. Typically it is a complex or confus -
ing taxiway/taxiway or taxiway/runway intersection. A confusing condition may be compounded by a miscommunication
between a controller and a pilot, and may cause an aircraft separation standard to be compromised. The area may have a
history of surface incidents or the potential for surface incidents.
Hot Spots are indicated on the Airport Diagram with a brown open circle or ellipse leadered to a Hot Spot number, e.g., HS
1. The number corresponds to a listing and description on the Hot Spot page in the front the TPP. More information and
the location of Hot Spots can be found at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/digital_products/dtpp/search/ .
DEPARTURE PROCEDURES (DPs)
Departure Procedures (DPs) are designed specifically to assist pilots in avoiding obstacles during the climb to the mini -
mum enroute altitude, and/or airports that have civil IFR takeoff minimums other than standard. There are two types of
DPs: Obstacle Departure Procedures (ODPs), printed either textually or graphically and Standard Instrument Departures
(SIDs), always printed graphically. SIDs are primarily designed for system enhancement and to reduce pilot/controller
workload, and require ATC clearance. ODPs provide obstruction clearance via the least onerous route from the terminal
area and may be flown without ATC clearance. All DPs provide the pilot with a safe departure from the airport and transi -
tion to the enroute structure.
Generally, DP charts are depicted “not to scale” due to the great distances involved on some procedures or route seg -
ments. A “to scale” portrayal may be used if readability is assured.
The DP will show the departure routing, including transitions to the appropriate enroute structure. All routes, turns, alti -
tudes, NAVAIDs, facilities forming intersections and fixes, and those facilities terminating the departure route are shown. A
textual description of the departure procedure is also provided. For RNAV DPs, the transition text consists of the transition
name and associated computer code. On non-RNAV DPs, the transition text will also include the description of all turns,
altitudes, radials, bearings and facilities/fixes needed to guide the user from the common departure point to the terminat -
ing facility fix.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
125Copter DPs may also include a visual or VFR segment. Visual segments are depicted using the dashed line symbol be -
low.
Visual Flight Segment
VFR Segments are not depicted with a line, but include the reference bearing and distance information at the endpoint of
the VFR Segment, when provided, as shown below.
Example of Copter with VFR Segment
STANDARD TERMINAL ARRIVAL (STARs) CHARTS
STARs are pre-planned Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) air traffic control arrival procedures for pilot use in graphic and/or tex -
tual form. STARs depict prescribed routes to transition the aircraft from the enroute structure to a fix in the terminal area
from which an instrument approach can be conducted. STARs reduce pilot/controller workload and air-ground communi -
cations, minimizing error potential in delivery and receipt of clearances.
STAR charts generally shall be depicted ‘not to scale’ due to the great distances involved on many procedures and route
segments. A ‘to scale’ depiction may be used only if readability is assured.
The STAR will show the arrival routing, including transitions from the appropriate enroute structure. All routes, turns,
altitudes, NAVAIDs, facilities forming intersections and fixes, and those facilities/fixes terminating or beginning the arrival
route shall be shown in the graphic depiction. A textual description of the arrival procedure is also provided. For RNAV
STARs, transition text will consist of the transition name and associated computer code. For non-RNAV STARs, the transi -
tion text will also include a description of all turns, altitudes, radials, bearings and facilities/fixes needed to guide the user
from the entry point to the common facility/fix.
CHARTED VISUAL FLIGHT PROCEDURE (CVFP) CHARTS
CVFPs are charted visual approaches established for environmental/noise considerations, and/or when necessary for the
safety and efficiency of air traffic operations. The approach charts depict prominent landmarks, courses, and recommend -
ed altitudes to specific runways. CVFPs are designed to be used primarily for turbojet aircraft. CVFPs are not instrument
approaches and do not have missed approach segments.
CVFPs are named for the primary landmark and the specific runway for which the procedure is developed, such as:
RIVER VISUAL RWY 18, STADIUM VISUAL RWY 24. The CVFP charts are divided into planview and notes sections
separated by a bar scale in 1 NM increments. The planview of the CVFP includes the portrayal of visual approach proce -
dures information, such as landmarks, NAVAIDs, visual track, hydrography, special use airspace and cultural features, as
applicable.
CVFPs originate at or near, and are designed around, prominent visual landmarks and typically do not extend beyond
15 flight path miles from the landing runway. Visual tracks start at a geographical point or landmark where the procedure
must be flown visually to the airport. The visual track is indicated by a dashed line. Visual tracks may include the track
value, distance and minimum or recommended altitudes.
126U.S. TERMINAL PROCEDURES PUBLICATION SYMBOLS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Symbols shown are for the Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP), which includes Standard Terminal Arrival (STARs)
Charts, Departure Procedures (DPs), Instrument Approach Procedures (IAP) and Airport Diagrams.
PLANVIEW SYMBOLS
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FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols
127PLANVIEW SYMBOLS (Continued)
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128PROFILE VIEW
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FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols STANDARD TERMINAL ARRIVAL (STAR) CHARTS
129 22 JAN 2026 to 19 MAR 2026
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DEPARTURE PROCEDURE (DP) CHARTS
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131AIRPORT DIAGRAM/AIRPORT SKETCH
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132APPROACH LIGHTING SYSTEM
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FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols
133APPROACH LIGHTING SYSTEM (Continued)
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FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols
REFERENCES
There are several references available from the FAA to aid pilots and other interest parties to learn more about FAA
Charts and other aspects of aviation.
Publication FAA Publication ID
Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM)
URL: http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/
Airplane Flying Handbook
URL: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/
airplane_handbook/FAA-H-8083-3A
Helicopter Flying Handbook
URL: http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/heli -
copter_flying_handbook/FAA-H-8083-21A
Instrument Procedures Handbook
URL: http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/in -
strument_procedures_handbook/FAA-H-8083-16B
Instrument Flying Handbook
URL: https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_
manuals/aviation/FAA-H-8083-15B.pdfFAA-H-8083-15B
Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
URL: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/
phak/FAA-H-8083-25B
Remote Pilot - Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide
URL: https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_
manuals/aviation/remote_pilot_study_guide.pdfFAA-G-8082-22
135FAA Chart Users’ Guide - References
136FAA Chart Users’ Guide - References
A
AAF - Army Air Field
AAS - Airport Advisory Service
AAUP - Attention All Users Page
AC - Advisory Circular
ADF - Automatic Direction Finder
ADIZ - Air Defense Identification Zone
ADS - Automatic Dependent Surveillance
ADS-B - Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast
Advsry - Advisory
AFB - Air Force Base
AFIS - Automatic Flight Information Service
AFS - Air Force Station
AFSS - Automated Flight Service Station
AGL - Above Ground Level
AIM - Aeronautical Information Manual
AIRAC - Aeronautical Information Regulation And Control
AK - Alaska
AL - Approach and Landing
ANG - Air National Guard
APP - Approach
APP CON - Approach Control
APP CRS - Approach Course
Apt - Airport
APV - Approaches with Vertical Guidance
ARP - Airport Reference Point
ARTCC - Air Route Traffic Control Center
ASDA - Accelerate-Stop Distance Available
ASDE-X - Airport Surface Detection Equipment-Model X
ASOS - Automated Surface Observing Station
ASR - Airport Surveillance Radar
ATC - Air Traffic Control
ATIS - Automatic Terminal Information Service
ATS - Air Traffic Service
AUNICOM - Automated Aeronautical Advisory Station
AWOS - Automated Weather Observing Station
B
Baro-VNAV - Barometric Vertical Navigation
BS - Broadcast Station
C
CAC - Caribbean Aeronautical Chart
CAT - Category
CFA - Controlled Firing Areas
CFR - Code of Federal Regulations
CH - Channel
CLNC DEL - Clearance Delivery
CNF - Computer Navigation Fix
COP - Changeover Point
CPDLC - Controller Pilot Data Link Communication
CRS - Course
CT - Control Tower
CTAF - Common Traffic Advisory FrequencyCVFP - Charted Visual Flight Procedure
CZ - Control Zone (Canada)
D
DA - Decision Altitude
DA - Density Altitude
D-ATIS - Digital Automatic Terminal Information Service
DH - Decision Height
DME - Distance Measuring Equipment
DND - Department of National Defense (Canada)
DoD - Department of Defense
DOF - Digital Obstacle File
DP - Departure Procedure
DT - Daylight Savings Time
DVA - Diverse Vector Area
E
E - East
EFAS - Enroute Flight Advisory Service
EFB - Electronic Flight Bag
Elev - Elevation
EMAS - Engineered Materials Arresting System
F
FAA - Federal Aviation Administration
FAF - Final Approach Fix
FAP - Final Approach Point
FAR - Federal Aviation Regulation
FBO - Fixed-Based Operator
FIR - Flight Information Region
FL - Flight Level
FLIP - Flight Information Publication
FMS - Flight Management System
FREQ - Frequency
FRZ - Flight Restricted Zone
FSDO - Flight Standards District Office
FSS - Flight Service Station
G
GBAS - Ground-Based Augmentation System
GCO - Ground Communications Outlet
GLS - GBAS Landing System
GND - Ground
GND CON - Ground Control
GNSS - Global Navigation Satellite System
GP - Glide Path
GPS - Global Positioning System
GS - Glide Slope
GS - Ground SpeedABBREVIATIONS
137FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Abbreviations
H
HAA - Height Above Airport
HAR - High Altitude Redesign
HAT - Height Above Touchdown
HCH - Heliport Crossing Height
HF - High Frequency
HIRL - High Intensity Runway Lights
HS - Hot Spot
I
IAC - Interagency Air Committee
IACC - Interagency Air Cartographic Committee
IAF - Initial Approach Fix
IAP - Instrument Approach Procedure
ICAO - International Civil Aviation Authority
IDT - Identifier
IF - Intermediate Fix
IFR - Instrument Flight Rules
ILS - Instrument Landing System
IMC - Instrument Meteorological Conditions
INS - Inertial Navigation System
IR - Instrument Route (Military)
IRU - Inertial Reference Unit
J
JO - Joint Order
K
KIAS - Knots
L
LAA - Local Airport Advisory
LAAS - Local Area Augmentation System
LAHSO - Land and Hold Short
LDA - Landing Distance Available
LDA - Localizer-type Directional Aid
Ldg - Landing
LF - Low Frequency
LIRL - Low Intensity Runway Lights
LNAV - Lateral Navigation
LOC - Localizer
LOM - Locator Outer Marker
LPV - Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance
LRRS - Long Range Radar Station
LTP - Landing Threshold Point
M
MAA - Maximum Authorized Altitude
MAP - Missed Approach Point
MCA - Minimum Crossing Altitude
MCAS - Marine Corps Air Station
MDA - Minimum Descent Altitude
MDH - Minimum Descent HeightMEA - Minimum Enroute Altitude
MEF - Maximum Elevation Figure
MF - Medium Frequency
MIA - Minimum IFR Altitude
MIRL - Medium Intensity Runway Lights
MOA - Military Operations Areas
MOCA - Minimum Obstruction Clearance Altitude
MON - Minimum Operational Network
MORA - Minimum Off-Route Altitude
MRA - Minimum Reception Altitude
MSA - Minimum Safe Altitude
MSL - Mean Sea Level
MTA - Minimum Turning Altitude
MTR - Military Training Route
MVA - Minimum Vector Altitude
N
N - North
N/A - Not Applicable
NA - Not Authorized
NAAS - Naval Auxiliary Air Station
NAS - Naval Air Station
NAS - National Airspace System
NAV - Naval Air Facility
NAVAID - Navigational Aid (Ground based)
NDB - Non-Directional Radiobeacon
NextGen - Next Generation Air Transportation System
NFDC - National Flight Data Center
NFPO - National Flight Procedures Office
NM - Nautical Mile
NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NO A/G - No Air-to-Ground Communication
NOTAM - Notice to Airmen
NoPT - No Procedure Turn
NPA - Non-Precision Approach
NWS - National Weather Service
O
OAT - Outside Air Temperature
OBS - Omni Bearing Selector
OCA - Ocean Control Area
OCS - Obstacle Clearance Surface
ODP - Obstacle Departure Procedure
OM - Outer Marker
OROCA - Off Route Obstruction Clearance Altitude
P
PA - Precision Approach
PAR - Precision Approach Radar
PBN - Performance-Based Navigation
PRM - Precision Runway Monitor
PT - Procedure Turn
PTP - Point-to-Point
Pvt - Private
138FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Abbreviations
R
R - Radial
R - Receive
R - Restricted Area (Special Use Airspace)
RCO - Remote Communications Outlet
RCLS - Runway Centerline Lighting Systems
RF - Radius-to-Fix
RNAV - Area Navigation
RNP - Required Navigation Performance
RNP AR - Required Navigation Performance Authorization
Required
ROC - Required Obstacle Clearance
RP - Right Pattern
RVR - Runway Visual Range
RVSM - Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum
Rwy - Runway
S
S - South
SAAAR - Special Aircraft and Aircrew Authorization
Required
SAAR - Special Aircraft and Aircrew Requirements
SATNAV - Satellite Navigation
SDF - Simplified Directional Facility
SER - Start End of Runway
SFAR - Special Flight Rules Area
SFC - Surface
SFRA - Special Flight Rules Area
SIAPs - Standard Instrument Approach Procedures
SID - Standard Instrument Departure
SM - Statute Mile
SMAR - Special Military Activity Routes
SMGCS - Surface Movement Guidance and Control
System
SOIA - Simultaneous Offset Instrument Approaches
SSV - Standard Service Volume
STAR - Standard Terminal Arrival Procedure
SUA - Special Use Airspace
SVFR - Special Visual Flight Rules
T
T - Transmit
TA - Travel Advisory
TAA - Terminal Arrival Area
TAC - Terminal Area Chart
TACAN - Tactical Air Navigation
TAS - True Air Speed
TCA - Terminal Control Areas (Canada)
TCH - Threshold Crossing Height
TDZ - Touchdown Zone
TDZE - Touchdown Zone Elevation
TDZL - Touchdown Zone Lights
TERPS - U.S. Standard for Terminal Instrument Procedures
TFR - Temporary Flight Restriction
TIBS - Telephone Information Briefing Service
TIS-B - Traffic Information Service - BroadcastTOC - Top of Climb
TOD - Top of Descent
TODA - Takeoff Distance Available
TOGA - Takeoff/Go Around
TORA - Takeoff Runway Available
TPP - Terminal Procedures Publication
TRSA - Terminal Radar Service Area
TWR - Tower
U
UC - Under Construction
UHF - Ultra High Frequency
UIR - Upper Information Region
UNICOM - Universal Communications
U.S. - United States
USA - United States Army
USAF - United States Air Force
USCG - United State Coast Guard
UTA - Upper Control Area
V
VCOA - Visual Climb Over Airport / Airfield
VDA - Vertical Descent Angle
VDP - Visual Decent Point
VFR - Visual Flight Rules
VGSI - Visual Glide Slope Indicator
VHF - Very High Frequency
VMC - Visual Meteorological Conditions
VNAV - Vertical Navigation
VOR - VHF Omnidirectional Radio Range
VORTAC - VHF Omnidirectional Radio Range/Tactical Air
Navigation
VPA - Vertical Path Angle
VR - Visual Route (Military)
W
W - Warning Area (Special Use Airspace)
W - West
WAAS - Wide-Area Augmentation System
WAC - World Aeronautical Chart
WP - Waypoint
WX CAM - Weather Camera (Alaska)
139FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Abbreviations
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