Federal Aviation

Administration

Aeronautical Information Services

Aeronautical Chart
Users’ Guide

Effective as of 15 June 2023

 TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS......................................................................................... 3

INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................... 7
KEEP YOUR CHARTS CURRENT..............................................................................................7
EFFECTIVE DATE OF CHART USERS’ GUIDE AND UPDATES................................................7
COLOR VARIATION.....................................................................................................................7
REPORTING CHART DISCREPANCIES.....................................................................................7

WHAT’S NEW?...................................................................................................... 9
VFR CHARTS...............................................................................................................................9
IFR ENROUTE CHARTS.............................................................................................................9
TERMINAL PROCEDURE PUBLICATION (TPP)........................................................................9

EXPLANATION OF VFR TERMS AND SYMBOLS............................................. 11

WATER FEATURES (HYDROGRAPHY)................................................................................... 11
LAND FEATURES (TERRAIN) AND OBSTRUCTIONS............................................................. 11
LAND FEATURES - MOUNTAIN PASSES.................................................................................14
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION..................................................................................................15

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Table of Contents

AIRPORTS.................................................................................................................................15
AIRSPACE..................................................................................................................................17
FOREIGN AREAS......................................................................................................................20
TERMINAL AREA CHART (TAC) COVERAGE..........................................................................21
INSET AND SPECIAL CHART COVERAGE..............................................................................21
CHART TABULATIONS..............................................................................................................21

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

3
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
HELICOPTER ROUTE CHARTS......................................................................... 49
GENERAL INFORMATION.........................................................................................................49
AIRPORTS.................................................................................................................................49
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION..................................................................................................50
AIRSPACE INFORMATION........................................................................................................51
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION.............................................................54
CULTURE...................................................................................................................................55

CARIBBEAN VFR AERONAUTICAL CHARTS (CAC)....................................... 57

AIRSPACE........................................................................................................... 59

EXPLANATION OF IFR ENROUTE TERMS....................................................... 61

AIRPORTS.................................................................................................................................61
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION..................................................................................................63
AIRSPACE INFORMATION........................................................................................................65
INSTRUMENT AIRWAYS...........................................................................................................66
FOREIGN AREAS......................................................................................................................70
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Table of Contents

TERRAIN CONTOURS ON AREA CHARTS..............................................................................71

AIRPORTS.................................................................................................................................73

IFR ENROUTE LOW / HIGH ALTITUDE SYMBOLS (U.S., PACIFIC AND ALASKA
CHARTS)............................................................................................................. 73
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION..................................................................................................74
AIRSPACE INFORMATION........................................................................................................79
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION.............................................................92
CULTURE...................................................................................................................................93
HYDROGRAPHY.......................................................................................................................93
TOPOGRAPHY..........................................................................................................................93

U.S. TERMINAL PROCEDURES PUBLICATION............................................... 95

EXPLANATION OF TPP TERMS AND SYMBOLS....................................................................95
INSTRUMENT APPROACH PROCEDURE CHART..................................................................96
PLANVIEW...............................................................................................................................102
MISSED APPROACH INFORMATION..................................................................................... 113
PROFILE VIEW........................................................................................................................ 114
LANDING MINIMUMS.............................................................................................................. 118
AIRPORT SKETCH..................................................................................................................120
AIRPORT DIAGRAMS.............................................................................................................121
DEPARTURE PROCEDURES (DPs).......................................................................................123
STANDARD TERMINAL ARRIVAL (STARs) CHARTS.............................................................124
CHARTED VISUAL FLIGHT PROCEDURE (CVFP) CHARTS................................................124

U.S. TERMINAL PROCEDURES PUBLICATION SYMBOLS.......................... 125

GENERAL INFORMATION.......................................................................................................125
PLANVIEW SYMBOLS............................................................................................................125

4
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROFILE VIEW........................................................................................................................127
STANDARD TERMINAL ARRIVAL (STAR) CHARTS...............................................................128
DEPARTURE PROCEDURE (DP) CHARTS............................................................................129
AIRPORT DIAGRAM/AIRPORT SKETCH...............................................................................130
APPROACH LIGHTING SYSTEM............................................................................................131

REFERENCES................................................................................................... 133

ABBREVIATIONS.............................................................................................. 135

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Table of Contents

5
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Table of Contents

6
 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 Air Missions (NOTAMs) alert pilots to time-critical aeronautical information that is either temporary or not suf-
ficiently 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/
notamSearch/.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Introduction

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 COLOR VARIATION

Aeronautical information changes rapidly, so it is impor- Although the digital files are compiled in accordance with
tant that pilots check the effective dates on each aeronau- charting specifications, the final product may vary slightly in
tical chart and publication. To avoid danger, it is important appearance due to differences in printing techniques/pro-
to always use current editions and discard obsolete cesses and/or digital display techniques.
charts and publications.
REPORTING CHART DISCREPANCIES
To confirm that a chart or publication is current, refer to
the next scheduled edition date printed on the cover. Your experience as a pilot is valuable and your feedback is
Pilots should also check NOTAMs for important updates important. We make every effort to display accurate informa-
between chart and publication cycles that are essential tion on all FAA charts and publications, so we appreciate
for safe flight. your input. Please notify us concerning any requests for
changes, or potential discrepancies you see while using our
EFFECTIVE DATE OF CHART USERS’ GUIDE charts and related products.
AND UPDATES
FAA, Aeronautical Information Services
All information in this guide is effective as of 15 June 1305 East-West Highway
2023. All graphics used in this guide are for educational SSMC4, Room 3424
purposes. Chart symbology may not be to scale. Please Silver Spring, MD 20910-3281
do not use them for flight navigation.
Telephone Toll-Free 1-800-638-8972
The Chart Users’ Guide is published in accordance with Aeronautical Inquires: https://www.faa.gov/air_traf-
the 56-day aeronautical chart product schedule. fic/flight_info/aeronav/aero_data/Aeronautical_In-
quiries/

7
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Introduction

8
 WHAT’S NEW?
Update as of 15 June 2023

The following charting items have been added to the Chart Users’ Guide since the Guide was last published on 20 April
2023:

VFR CHARTS

No Significant Changes Applied

IFR ENROUTE CHARTS

Effective with the June 15, 2023, chart editions, only limited foreign information will be charted on all appropriate Enroute
U.S., Alaska and Pacific High/Low IFR aeronautical charts to provide 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 change high-
lights 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.

TERMINAL PROCEDURE PUBLICATION (TPP)

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - What’s New

No Significant Changes Applied

9
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - What’s New

10
 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 Visual 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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

"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. We 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.

11
 3. 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. FAA's Aero-
nautical Information Manual (AIM) maintains a database of over obstacles
in the United States and U.S. Pacific Island Territories. Aeronautical Specialists
evaluate each obstacle based on charting specifications before adding it to 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 FAA receives notification about an ob-
struction, and there is insufficient detail to determine its position and elevation, the FAA 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.

Sectional Charts and Terminal Area (TACs) typically show man-made obstacles extend-
ing 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
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

flight are; smokestacks, tanks, factories, lookout towers, and antennas, 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.

Whenever 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.

Obstacles under construction are indicated by placing the letters UC adjacent to the obstacle type.

Obstacles with high-intensity strobe lighting systems may operate part-time or by proximity
activation and are shown as follows:

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.

12
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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

equals 2749

Raise to the following 100’ level 2800

Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF)

13
 MEF - 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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

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.

14
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.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

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.

15
 Other airports with or without fuel:

Airports are plotted in their true geographic position unless the symbol conflicts with a NAVAID 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 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 designated name. Generic parts of long airport names (such as
"airport," "field," or "municipal") and the first names of persons are commonly omitted unless
they are needed to distinguish one airport from another with a similar name.

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
UNICOM
80. If a seaplane base is collocated with an airport, there will be additional seaplane base
water information listed for the elevation, lighting and runway.

Flight Service Station on field Elevation in feet

Airports where fixed wing special VFR Lighting in operation Sunset to Sunrise
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

operations are prohibited (shown above

airport name) FAR 91

Indicates FAR 93 Special Air Traffic Lighting limitations exist; refer to Chart Supple-
Rules and Airport Traffic Pattern 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 See Chart Supplement

tower frequencies tabulation for hours of
operation

Follows the Common Traffic Advisory VFR Advisory Service Shown when ATIS is
Frequency (CTAF) 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 When information is lacking, the respective

Systems; shown when full-time ATIS is character is replaced by a dash. Lighting codes
not available 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.
16
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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

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..."

17
 Class 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
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 restricts
FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

entry, or cautions other aircraft operating within specific boundaries. Except

for Controlled Firing Areas, SUA areas are depicted on VFR Charts. Con-
trolled Firing Areas are not charted because their activities are suspended
immediately when spotter aircraft, radar, or ground lookout positions indi-
cate 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. M OD E
C & A D S -B O U T
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 (FAR 91) are shown
with the type "NO SVFR" above the airport name.

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 estab-
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.
18
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 Air Missions (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 Na-
tional Security 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-

FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

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. Routes at or below 1500' AGL (with no segment above 1500') are identified by four-digit numbers; e.g.,
VR1007, etc. These routes are generally developed for flight under Visual Flight Rules.

b. Routes above 1500' AGL (some segments of these routes may be below 1500') are identified by three or fewer
digit numbers; e.g., IR21, VR302, etc. These routes are developed for flight under Instrument Flight Rules.

MTRs can vary in width from 4 to 16 miles. Detailed route width information is available in the Flight Information Publica-
tion (FLIP) AP/1B (a Department of Defense publication), or through the 56 Day NASR Subscription from the National
Flight Data Center (NFDC).

19
 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 information for obtaining area activity status.

The following guidance appears in the margin of applicable Sectional Charts.

FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

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.

20
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.

FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

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 Very 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.

21
 Frequencies (VHF/UHF)

{
{
{ Radar Instrument

{
Approach available
Airport
Name Runway dependent

Approach
Hours of direction
Operation dependent
(local time)
Frequencies (VHF/UHF)
{
{
FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Terms and Symbols

{
VHF
UHF

Airspace

N
{ Sectors for

O
Name

I
VHF and UHF traffic

AT
G
local time

Radar
V I
NA
Approach
Control

O R
T F
N O
VHF/UHF

VHF/UHF

Sunrise to Sunset

22
 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 Landplane:

Non-Towered Towered Landmark Value
Airports having control towers (CT)
PUBLIC USE - (Soft surfaced
are shown in blue, all others are
runway, or hard surfaced runway
shown in magenta. Fuel not available less than 1500’ in length.) Fuel
not available.
All recognizable runways, including or

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Charts
some that may be closed, are shown
for visual identification purposes. Fuel Complete information RESTRICTED OR PRIVATE -
available. is not available. (Soft surfaced runway, or hard
surfaced runway less than 1500’
Runway patterns will be depicted
in length.) Non-public use having
at airports with at least one hard
landmark value.
surfaced runway 1500´ or greater in
length.

OBJECTIONABLE is an airport
Landplane: that has an airspace determina-
Civil-Military Non-Towered Towered 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.
Landplane: Military Non-Towered Towered
UNVERIFIED - A landing area
Refueling and repair facilities not available but warranting more
indicated. than ordinary precaution due to:

(1) lack of current information on

field conditions,

Heliport and/or
Non-Towered Towered
(Selected) (2) available information indi-
cates peculiar operating limita-
tions.
Foreign
ABANDONED - Depicted for
Appropriate note as landmark value or to prevent
required for hard surfaced confusion with an adjacent us-
runways only: “(CLOSED)” able landing area. (Normally at
Seaplane: Civil Non-Towered Towered least 3000’ paved).

Seaplane: Emergency
Ultralight Flight Park
Fuel not available or complete
(Selected) information is not available.

23
 AIRPORTS (Continued)
Non Towered Towered
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.

UNICOM
UNICOM

Flight Service Station on field Elevation in feet

Airports where fixed wing special VFR opera- Lighting in operation Sunset to Sunrise
tions are prohibited (shown above airport
name) FAR 91
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

Lighting limitations exist; refer to Chart

Supplement
Indicates FAR 93 Special Air Traffic Rules and Length of longest runway in hundreds of
Airport Traffic Pattern feet; usable length may be less.
Location Identifier
Aeronautical advisory station
ICAO Location Identifier
Runways with Right Traffic Patterns (public
Control Tower (CT) - primary frequency use)

See Chart Supplement

Star indicates operation part-time. See tower
frequencies tabulation for hours of operation VFR Advisory Service Shown when ATIS is
not available and frequency is other than the
primary CT frequency.
Follows the Common Traffic Advisory Fre-
quency (CTAF) Weather Camera (Alaska)
Automatic Terminal Information Services Airport of Entry
Automatic Flight Information Service When information is lacking. the respective
character is replaced by a dash. Lighting
Automated Surface Weather Observing codes refer to runway edge lights and may
Systems; shown when full-time ATIS is not not represent the longest runway or full
available. length lighting.

24
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION

VOR Non-Directional Radio Beacon (NDB)

Operates less than
contiuous or On-Request

Underline indicates no
voice on this frequency
VORTAC NDB-DME

When an NDB NAVAID
shares the same name
and Morse Code as
the VOR NAVAID the
frequency can be col-
located inside the same

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
box to conserve space.

VOR-DME NAVAID Used To Define Class B Airspace

ILS Components
ILS-DME

Crosshatch indicates
Shutdown status
TAC - Shown when used
in description of Class B
airspace.

DME Compass Rosette

Shown only in areas void of
VOR roses.

DME co-located at an airport Compass rosette will be
Note: DMEs are shown without the based on the five year epoch
compass rose. magnetic variation model.

Compass Rose
Compass Rose is “reference”
oriented to magnetic north

Example of VOR
NAVAID co-located at
airport

25
 RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)

Automated Weather Broadcast Services Off Airport AWOS/ASOS

VHF/UHF LF/MF
Automated Weather Observing System
(AWOS) / Automated Surface Observing
System (ASOS). Broadcast Stations (BS)

On request by the proper au-
Flight Service Station (FSS) thority or when a VFR Check-
point
Heavy line box indicates Flight
Service Station (FSS). Frequencies
121.5, 122.2 and 243.0 are avail- Remote Communications Outlet (RCO)
able at many Alaskan FSSs and are
not shown above boxes. All other Frequencies above
frequencies are shown. Frequen- thin line box are
cies transmit and receive except remoted to NAVAID
those followed by an R. site. Other frequen-
cies at FSS providing
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

R - receive only voice communication

may be available FSS Radio
determined by altitude
providing
and terrain. Consult
Chart Supplement for voice
complete information. communications

Thin line box with-

out frequencies and
controlling FSS name
indicates no FSS frequency available.

AIRSPACE INFORMATION

Class B Airspace

Sectional Terminal Area Chart (TAC)

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) All mileages are nautical (NM).

All radials are magnetic.

26
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Class C Airspace Class D Airspace

Appropriate notes as Altitude in hundreds of
required may be shown. feet MSL

(Mode C see FAR 91.215/

AIM)

(A minus in front of the

figure is used to indicate
“from surface to but not
including...”)

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
Class E Airspace
Airspace beginning at
The limits of Class E
the surface (sfc) desig-
airspace shall be
nated around airports...
shown by narrow
vignettes or by the
dashed magenta
symbol. Individual
units of designated
airspace are not
Airspace beginning at the
necessarily shown;
surface with an airspace
instead, the aggre-
exclusion area where
gate lateral and vertical limits shall be defined by the following:
Class E airspace is ex-
cluded below 1200’ MSL.
Airspace beginning at the surface (sfc) designated around air-
ports..

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.

27
 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
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

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) Offshore Control Areas

MEXICO FIR MMFR

WINNIPEG FIR CZWG

NEW YORK OCEANIC CTA/FIR KZNY
Oceanic Control Areas (OCA)
OAKLAND OCEANIC
CONTROL AREA
Control Areas (CTA)
MONTERREY CTA SECTOR 3
Foreign Airspace Note

28
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Special Conservation Areas

NOAA Regulated National
National Park, Wildlife
Marine Sanctuary
Refuge, Primitive and
Designated Areas
Wilderness Areas, etc.

Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) Relating to National

Security

Example: Washington DC

Appropriate notes as

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
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.

29
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) Relating to
National Security

Special Use Airspace

National Security Area
Only the airspace effective

below 18,000 feet MSL is
Appropriate notes as
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

shown.
required may be shown
The type of area shall be
spelled out in large areas if
space permits.

Small Area

NOTICE
* Alert Areas do not extend FOR REASONS OF NATIONAL SECURITY
PILOTS ARE REQUESTED TO AVOID FLIGHT
into Class A, B, C and D BELOW 1200' MSL IN THIS AREA
airspace, or Class E airport
surface areas.
Special Awareness Training Areas

Mode C (FAR 91.215)

C & A D S -B O U T
Appropriate notes as M OD E
30 NM
required may be shown.
Special Air Traffic Rules / Airport Patterns (FAR Part 93)

Appropriate boxed note as required Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ)
shown adjacent to area.
Note: Delimiting line not
Inside the FAR Part 93 boundary shown when it coincides with
area, the cross hatching is at a 45 International Boundary,
degree angle. The hypsometric tint projection lines or other linear
shall be masked within the area features.
around the yellow city tint when
applicable (should not be confused
with white glacier tint).

30
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
High Energy Radiation Areas Sporting Event Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR)
Sites

National Defense Airspace Temporary Flight Restric-

tion (TFR) Areas

Appropriate notes as required may

be shown

Military Training Routes (MTR)

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
Special Military Activity Routes (SMAR)
Space Operations Area (FAR Part 91.143)

Boxed notes shown adjacent

to route.
Miscellaneous Activity Areas

IFR Routes Aerobatic Practice Area

Arrival
Glider Operations

Departure
Hang Glider Activity

Arrival/Departure
Ultralight Activity
TAC only

Unmanned Aircraft Activity

Special Security Notice Permanent Continuous Flight
Restriction Areas

Parachute Jumping Area with Frequency

Space Launch Activity Area

31
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
VFR Transition Routes
Examlple: Los Angeles

Appropriate notes as required

may be shown.

Uni-directional

Bi-directional

Bi-directional with NAVAID Ident

and Radial
TAC only
FAA Chart Users Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA) Example: Harrisburg, PA

TRSA Name

TRSA Boundaries

TRSA Sectors

Appropriate notes as required

may be shown.

NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION

Isogonic Line and Value Aeronautical Lights
By Request
Isogonic lines and values shall
be based on the five year epoch Rotating or Oscillating
magnetic variation model.
Isolated Location

Local Magnetic Notes Site

Unreliability Notes Rotating Light with Flashing Code
Identification Light

Intersections

Named intersections used as
reporting points. Arrows are
directed toward facilities that
establish intersection.
Rotating Light with Course Lights and
Site Number

32
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Airport Beacons Marine Lights

Rotating or Flashing With Characteristics of Light

Land Light

Isolated Locations Red

White
Green
VFR Checkpoints Blue
Orange
Underline indicates proper Black
name of VFR Checkpoint. Yellow
Sector
Fixed
Single Occulting
Group Occulting
Composite Group Occulting
Isophase

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
Flashing
Group Flashing
Composite Group Flashing
Quick
VFR Waypoints Interrupted Quick/Interrupted Quick Flashing

Morse Code
RNAV
Fixed and Flashing
Alternating
Stand-Alone
Group
Long Flash
Group Quick Flashing
Collocated with VFR Checkpoint
Very Quick Flashing
Group Very Quick Flashing
Obstruction Interrupted Very Quick Flashing
Ultra Quick Flashing
Above 200’ & below 1000’ AGL Interuppted Ultra Quick Flashing
(above 299’ AGL in urban area)
* Marine Lights are white unless other-
wise noted. Alternating lights are red and white unless
Under Construction (UC) or reported and otherwise noted.
position/elevation unverified
Group Obstruction
1000’ and higher (AGL)
Above 200’ & below 1000’ AGL
(above 299’ AGL in urban area)
Wind Turbine
1000’ and higher (AGL)

At least two in group

High-Intensity Obstruction Lights 1000’ and higher (AGL)

Less than 1000’ (AGL)
Wind Turbines

1000’ and higher (AGL)

Wind Turbine Farms

Wind Turbine
When highest wind turbine is unverified,
UC will be shown after MSL value.
Group obstruction

Wind Turbines
Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF)
High-intensity lights may operate part-time
or by proximity activation. (see VFR Terms tab for explanation)

33
 NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Chart Limits

Outline on Sectional of Terminal Area Chart Outline on Sectional of Inset Chart

TAC

Outline of Special Chart on

Sectional and Terminal Area
Chart

CULTURE
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

Railroads Railroad Yards

Limiting Track To Scale
Single Track

Double Track Location Only

Railroad Stations
More Than Two Tracks

Railroad Sidings and Short Spurs

Electric

Non-operating, Abandoned or
Under Construction

Roads Road Markers

Dual-Lane Divided Highway Interstate Route No.
Category 1

Primary U.S. Route No.

Category 2
Air Marked Identification Label
Secondary
Category 2
Road Names

Trails
Roads Under Construction
Category 3

Provides symbolization for

dismantled railroad when combined
with label “dismantled railroad.”

34
CULTURE (Continued)
Related Features to Railroads and Roads

Bridges and Viaducts Bridges and Viaducts

Railroad Road

Causeways Ferries, Ferry Slips and Fords

Overpasses and Underpasses

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
Tunnels-Road and Railroad

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

35
 CULTURE (Continued)
Boundaries

International Time Zones

State or Province

Convention or Mandate Line

Date Line

Miscellaneous Cultural Features

Dams Dam Carrying Road

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

Small Locks
Passable Locks

Weirs and Jetties Seawalls

Breakwaters
Piers, Wharfs, Quays, etc.

Pipelines
Power Transmission
and Telecommunication Lines
Underground

Landmark Features Tanks

Outdoor Theater
Mines or Quarries

Shaft Mines or Quarries
Race Tracks

Wells Coast Guard Station


Other than water

Lookout Towers Landmark Areas
(Elevation Base of Tower) 618

Aerial Cableways,Conveyors, Etc.

36
HYDROGRAPHY
Open Water Inland Water

Shorelines
Open/Inland Water
Definite

Lakes Fluctuating

Label as required.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
Unsurveyed
Perennial
Indefinite

When too numerous to show
individual lakes, show
representative pattern and

descriptive note. Number
Man-made
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

37
 HYDROGRAPHY (Continued)

Streams Canals
Perennial

To Scale
Non-Perennial
Abandoned or Under Construction

Fanned Out Abandoned to Scale

Alluvial fan
Small Canals and Drainage / Irrigation Ditches

Perennial
Braided

Disappearing
Non-Perennial
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

Seasonally Fluctuating
Abandoned or Ancient
with undefined limits Numerous

with maximum bank limits,

prominent and constant Representative pattern and/or
descriptive note.

Sand Deposits in and along

riverbeds
Aqueducts

To Scale

Wet Sand Areas Abandoned or Under Construction

Within and adjacent to desert areas Underground

Suspended or Elevated

Tunnels

Kanats
Underground with Air Vents

38
HYDROGRAPHY (Continued)
Falls Mangrove And Nipa

Double-Line

Single-Line

Cranberry Bogs

Rapids

Double-Line

Land Subject To Inundation

Single-Line

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
Salt Evaporators and Salt Pans Man Exploited Reefs-Rocky or Coral

cor
al

Fish Ponds and Hatcheries

Hummocks and Ridges

Peat Bogs

Miscellaneous Underwater Features Not Otherwise
Symbolized

Rice Paddies

Extensive areas indicated
by label only.

Wrecks
Springs, Wells and Waterholes
Exposed

Swamps, Marshes and Bogs

Rocks-Isolated

Bare or Awash

Tundra

39
 HYDROGRAPHY (Continued)

Permanent Snow and Ice Areas

Glaciers Ice

Permanent
Polar Ice

Glacial Moraines

Ice Cliffs Pack Ice
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

Snowfields, Ice Fields And Ice Caps

Foreshore Flats

Tidal flats exposed at low tide. Ice Peaks

RELIEF
Contours

Basic
Depression
(Illustration includes mound
within depression)
Approximate
Values

Intermediate

Auxiliary

40
RELIEF (Continued)

Sand or Gravel Areas

Shaded Relief

Sand Dunes
Quarries To Scale
To Scale

Hachuring Craters

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts
Spot Elevations

Position Accurate
Unsurveyed Areas

Label appropriately as required

Position Accurate, Elevation Approximate

Levees And Eskers
Highest in General Area

Rock Strata Outcrop

Highest on Chart

Mountain Pass

Strip Mines, Mine Dumps And Tailings
Distorted Surface Areas
To Scale

Escarpments, Bluffs, Cliffs, Depressions, Etc.
Lava Flows

Uncontoured Areas
Sand Ridges

To Scale Label appropriately as required

RELIEF DATA INCOMPLETE

41
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Sectional and Terminal Area Charts

42
 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 Landplane (continued)

No distinction is made
(Pvt): Non-public use having
between airports with fuel and
landmark value.
those without fuel. Runways
may be exaggerated to clearly

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Flyway Planning Chars
portray the pattern. Hard-
“OBJECTIONABLE”: This
surfaced runways that are
airport may adversely affect
closed but still exist are
airspace use.
included in the charted pattern.
ABANDONED - Depicted for
FAR 91 - Fixed wing special
landmark value or to prevent
VFR operations prohibited.
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

RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION

VHF Omni-Directional Radio Non-Directional Radio Beacon

Range (VOR) (NDB)

VORTAC NDB-DME

VOR-DME

NAVAIDS Used to Define Class Airspace
DME

Example: DME co-located at an airport.

43
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION

Class B Airspace Class C Airspace

Appropriate notes as required Appropriate notes as
may be shown. required may be shown.

(Mode C see (Mode C see

FAR 91.215/AIM) 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
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Flyway Planning Charts

of the Class B Airspace.)

Class D Airspace Class E Surface

(SFC) 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.

44
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) Relating To National Se-

curity

Example: Washington DC

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Flyway Planning Chars
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) Relating To
National Security

Example: Washington DC

Appropriate notes as required may be shown.

Special Use Airspace Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ)

Only the airspace effective Note: Delimiting line not
below 18,000 feet MSL is shown when it coincides
shown. with International Bound-
ary, projection lines or other
The type of area shall be linear features.
spelled out in large areas if
space permits.
Foreign Airspace Note

45
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Special Air Traffic Rules/Airport Traffic Areas (FAR Part Mode C (FAR 91.215)
93)
C & A D S -B O U T
Appropriate notes as required may M OD E
30 NM
Appropriate boxed note as re- be shown.
quired shown adjacent to area.
Inside the FAR Part 93 bound- Sporting Event Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR)
ary area, the cross hatching is Sites
at a 45 degree angle.


Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA) National Defense Airspace Temporary Flight Restric-
tion (TFR) Areas
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Flyway Planning Charts

IFR Routes
Miscellaneous Activity Areas
Arrival
Aerobatic Practice Area

Glider Operations
Departure

Hang Glider Activity

Arrival/Departure Ultralight Activity

VFR Transition Routes Unmanned Aircraft Activity

Appropriate notes as required Parachute Jumping Area
may be shown. with Frequency

Uni-directional Space Launch Activity Area

Bi-directional
Example: Los Angeles

Bi-directional with NAVAID Ident

and Radial

Special Conservation Areas

NOAA Regulated National Marine
Sanctuary Designated Areas

46
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Suggested VFR Flyway And Altitude

Military Training Routes (MTR)

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Flyway Planning Chars
NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION

Obstructions

Obstacles may be lit or unlit.
VFR Checkpoints
Only obstacles greater than
Underline indicates proper name of 999’ above ground level (AGL)
VFR Checkpoint 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.

VFR Waypoints Under Construction or reported

and position/elevation unveri-
Stand-Alone fied.

Collocated with VFR Checkpoint

Navigational Data

47
 CULTURE
Railroads Roads

Dual-Lane
Single and Multiple Tracks

Populated Places Divided Highway Primary

Built-up Areas
Prominent Pictorials

Towns

BOUNDARIES
Power Transmission Lines
International
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Symbology - Flyway Planning Charts

Landmarks

HYDROGRAPHY
Reservoirs
Shorelines

Major Lakes and Rivers

RELIEF

Spot Elevations
Position Accurate
Mountain Peaks

48
 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.

AIRPORTS

Landplane Seaplane

All recognizable runways, including Heliport
some that may be closed, are shown
for visual identification. Heliports public and private

Public Medical Center

Private Helipads located at major airports

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts

(when requested)
Unverified

Abandoned
Ultralight Flight Park

Foreign

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 Automated Terminal
use. Information Service

Flight Service Station on field Automated Surface Weather Observing

Systems (shown when full-time ATIS is not
Airspace where fixed wing special visual flight available). Some ASOS/AWOS
rules operations are prohibited (shown above facilities may not be located at airports.
airport name) FAR 91

Elevation in feet
Indicates FAR 93 Special Air Traffic Rules and
Airport Traffic Lighting in operation Sunset to Sunshine

Lighting limitations exists, refer

to Chart Supplement
Location Idendtifier

ICAO Location Identifier UNICOM - Aeronautical advisory station

Follows the Common Traffic Advisory

Control Tower (CT) - primary frequency Frequency (CTAF)

Star indicates operation part-time. See tower Unverified Heliport

frequencies tabulation for hours of operation
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).
49
 RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION
NAVAIDs

VHF Omni-Directional Radio (VOR) Range Non-Directional Radio Beacon (NDB)

Open circle symbol
shown when NAVAID
located on airport. Type
of NAVAID shown in top
of box.

Compass Rose is
“reference” oriented to
magnetic north. NDB-DME

Open Circle

VOR
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts

Operates less than

contiuous or On-Request

NAVAID Used to Define

Class B Airspace
Underline indicates no
voice on this frequency

VORTAC

ASOS/AWOS
When an NDB NAVAID shares NDB Frequency
the same name and Morse Code Broadcast Stations (BS)
as the VOR NAVAID the frequen- } Morse
cy can be collocated inside the Code On request by the proper authority
same box to conserve space. Frequency Channel Identifier or when a VFR Checkpoint.

VOR-DME

Crosshatch indicates
Shutdown status

DME

Flight Service Station (FSS)

Remote Communications Outlet (RCO)
Heavy line box indicates Flight
Service Station (FSS). Frequen- Frequencies above thin line box
cies 121.5, 122.2 and 243.0 are are remoted to NAVAID site.
available at many Alaskan FSSs Other FSS frequencies providing
and are not shown above boxes. voice communications may be
All other frequencies are shown. available as determined by altitude
and terrain. Consult Chart
Certain FSSs provide Airport Supplement for complete information.
Advisory Service, refer to Chart
Supplement. Thin line box without frequencies
and controlling FSS name
R - Receive Only indicates no FSS frequency available.

50
AIRSPACE INFORMATION
Class B Airspace Class C Airspace

Appropriate notes as required Appropriate notes as required
may be shown. (Mode C see FAR NAVAID identifier and may be shown. (Mode C see
distance from facility
91.215/AIM) FAR 91.215/AIM)

All mileages are nautical (NM)

NAVAID identifier and
(Floors extending “upward from radial from facility
above” a certain altitude are Ceiling of Class C in
preceded by a +. Operations at CLASS B hundreds of feet MSL
and below these altitudes are SURFACE AREA
outside of Class B Airspace.) Floor of Class C in
hundreds of feet MSL
Ceiling of Class B in
All radials are magnetic. Ceiling is to but not
hundreds of feet MSL
including floor of Class B
Floor of Class B in
hundreds of feet MSL Surface

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts

Class D Airspace Class E Surface (SFC) 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.

51
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued) Example: Washington DC

Special Airspace Areas (Continued)

Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) Relating to National

Security

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts

Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) Special Air Traffic Rules / Airport Traffic Areas
(FAR Part 93)
Note: Delimiting line not
shown when it coincides
with International Boundary, Appropriate boxed notes as
projection lines or other linear required shown adjacent to
features. area. Inside the FAR Part 93
boundary area, the cross
hatching is at a 45 degree
Special Security Notice Permanent Continuous
angle.
Flight Restriction Areas

Sporting Event Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR)

Sites

Mode C (FAR 91.215)
MODE C & ADS-B OUT
National Defense Airspace Temporary Flight Restric-
Appropriate notes as required 30 NM
may be shown. tion (TFR) Areas

Terminal Radar Service Area (TRSA)

Appropriate notes as
required
may be shown.

52
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Miscellaneous Activity Areas Police Zones

Aerobatic Practice Area

Glider Operations

Hang Glider Activity Special Use Airspace

Ultralight Activity Only the airspace effective
below 18,000 feet MSL is
Unmanned Aircraft Activity shown.

Parachute Jumping Area with Frequency The type of area shall be

spelled out in large areas if
Space Launch Activity Area space permits.

Military Training Routes (MTR)

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts

Helicopter Routes

Primary Route with Route One-way Route
Name and Tower Frequency

Secondary Route Altitude Changeover Point

Transition Symbol

Reporting Points
Recommended Altitudes

Maximum Altitude
Non-compulsory
Minimum Altitude
Compulsory

Reporting Point Name Recommended Altitude

Foreign Airspace Note

53
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Special Conservation Areas NOAA Regulated National
Marine Sanctuary Designated
National Park, Wildlife Refuge, Areas
Primitive and Wilderness Areas, etc.

NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION

VFR Checkpoints VFR Waypoints
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts

Underline indicates proper Stand-Alone
name of VFR Checkpoint.

Collocated with VFR Checkpoint

Collocated with VFR Checkpoint

& Reporting Point

Obstruction Group Obstruction

Above 299’ and below 1000’ AGL
Above 299’ and below 1000’ AGL

1000’ and higher AGL

1000’ and higher AGL

High-Intensity Obstruction Lights Wind Turbine Farms

When highest wind turbine is
High-intensity lights may operate
unverified, UC will be shown
part-time or by proximity activation.
after MSL value.

Navigation Data
Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF)

(see VFR Terms tab for explanation)

54
CULTURE
Railroads Roads

Single Track Dual-Lane:
Divided Highways

Major Boulevards & Major Streets

Double Track Primary

Bridges Boundaries

International

State or Province

Power Transmission Lines

Populated Places

Built-up Areas Prominent Pictorials

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts

Landmarks

55
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - VFR Chart Symbology - Helicopter Charts

56
 CARIBBEAN 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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Caribbean VFR Aeronautical Charts (CAC)

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

57
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Caribbean VFR Aeronautical Charts (CAC)

58
 AIRSPACE

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Airspace

U.S. Airspace depiction as shown on Visual Aeronautical Charts

59
 CLASS B
CLASS B INTERNAL SECTOR
OUTER BOUNDARIES MODE C
BOUNDARY CLASS D AIRSPACE BOUNDARY

CLASS B
EXTENSION

CLASS E
AIRSPACE
EXTENSION
with
CLASS E SURFACE
with FLOOR
700’ AGL FLOOR
SPORTING
EVENT
CLASS B
EXTENSIONS
{ TFR SITES

CLASS E
with
1200’ AGL
FLOOR

CLASS E
with
SURFACE

{
FLOOR
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Airspace

CLASS E
with
1200’ AGL SPORTING
FLOOR EVENT
TFR SITE
{

CLASS E CLASS C
CLASS E with OUTER BOUNDARY
with 1200’ AGL
FLOOR CLASS C
700’ AGL FLOOR
INNER BOUNDARY
Excerpt from Detroit Sectional Chart

60
 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,

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

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.
61
 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 6. Associated city names for public airports are shown above or
preceding the airport name. If airport name and city name are
2. Pvt - Private use, not available to general public the same, only the airport name is shown. The airport identifier in
parentheses follows the airport name. City names for military and
3. A solid line box enclosed the airport name indicates FAR 93 private airports are not shown.
Special Requirements - see Directory/Supplement
7. Airport Ident ICAO Location Indicator shown outside contigu-
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

4. “NO SVFR” above the airport name indicates FAR 91 fixed- ous U.S.
wing special VFR flight is prohibited.
8. AFIS Alaska only
5. or following the airport identifier indicates Class C or
Class D Airspace

High Altitude - U.S.

High Altitude - Alaska

LIGHTING CAPABILITY

Lighting Available Part-time or on request

Pilot Controlled Lighting 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.

62
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 HIGH ENROUTE CHARTS

RCO Frequencies RCO Frequencies

NAVAID Name, SSV(s) NAVAID Name
FREQ, Ident, CH, Morse Code Frequency, Ident, SSV(s), Channel
Latitude, Longitude Latitude, Longitude
Controlling FSS Name

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

Controlling FSS Name
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 VHF/UHF LF/MF

Thin line NAVAID boxes without frequency(s) and FSS radio name
indicates no FSS frequencies available.

Shadow NAVAID box indicates NAVAID and Flight Service Station

(FSS) have same name.

63
 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’ 40
14,500’ to 18,000’ 100
18,000’ to 45,000’ 130
45,000’ to 60,000’ 100
(VL) VOR Low 1000’ to 5,000’ 40
5,000’ to 18,000’ 70
(VH) VOR High 1000’ to 5,000’ 40
5,000’ to 14,500’ 70
14,500’ to 18,000’ 100
18,000’ to 45,000’ 130
45,000’ to 60,000’ 100
(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’ 130
45,000’ to 60,000’ 100
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

* Between 1000’ to 12,900’, DME service volume follows a parabolic curve used by flight managment computers.

Notes: 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 Notice to Air Missions (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 VHF/UHF LF/MF

ASOS/AWOS - Automated Surface Observing Station/Automated
Weather Observing Station
Automated weather, when available, is broadcast on the associ-
ated NAVAID frequency.
LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE LOW ENROUTE HIGH ENROUTE

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.

64
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.

Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC)

When Controller Pilot Data Link Communication

ARTCC(CPDLC)
Name exists for an ARTCC, the text CPDLC (LOGON KUSA) will be
Site Name
shown parallel to the boundary above or below the ARTCC identification as shown below.
Frequency

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.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

ARTCC Name ARTCC Remoted Sites with
Site Name
Frequency 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.

65
 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.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

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.

C & A D S -B O U T
M OD E
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

66
west, and Amber and Blue airways are plotted north and south. Regardless of their color identifier, LF/MF airways are
shown in brown.

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,

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

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, NAVAIDs, 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.

67
 • 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)

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 NAVAID.
GNSS MEA for each segment is established to ensure obstacle clearance and communications reception. GNSS MEAs
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

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 Victor. 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

68
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).

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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

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.

69
 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 Mexico charts are shown in black.
Magnetic reference courses are shown originating from a waypoint, fix/reporting point, or NAVAID.

Joint Jet/RNAV route identification boxes will be located adjacent to each other with the route charted in black. With the
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms

exception of Q-Routes in the Gulf of Mexico, 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

FOREIGN 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.

70
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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Terms
 IFR ENROUTE LOW / HIGH ALTITUDE SYMBOLS
(U.S., PACIFIC AND ALASKA CHARTS)
AIRPORTS

Airport Data - Low/High Altitude

Civil Charts: High/Low Seaplane - Civil Charts: Low

Civil And Military Charts: High/Low Heliport Charts: Low

Military Charts: High/Low Emergency Use Only

Pacific Only

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.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

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 Alask 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

AIRPORT DATA DEPICTION

Low Altitude

1. Airport elevation given in feet above or below mean sea level 6. Associated city names for public airports are shown above or
preceding the airport name. If airport name and city name are
2. Pvt - Private use, not available to general public the same, only the airport name is shown. The airport identifier in
parentheses follows the airport name. City names for military and
3. A solid line box enclosed the airport name indicates FAR 93 private airports are not shown.
Special Requirements - see Directory/Supplement
7. Airport Ident ICAO Location Indicator shown outside contiguous
4. “NO SVFR” above the airport name indicates FAR 91 fixed- U.S.
wing special VFR flight is prohibited.
8. AFIS Alaska only
5. or following the airport identifier indicates Class C or
Class D Airspace High Altitude - Alaska

High Altitude - U.S.

73
 Airports (Continued)
LIGHTING CAPABILITY

Lighting Available Part-time or on request

Pilot Controlled Lighting 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
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

VHF/UHF LF/MF

Compass Roses are oriented to Magnetic North of the NAVAID that cannot be adjusted to the charted isogonic values.

Compass Locator Beacon

LOW ALTITUDE Chart Example : Enroute Low L-27 US

74
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)
LOW ALTITUDE ILS Localizer Example with Back Course
ILS LOCALIZER (Chart: Enroute Low L-1 US)

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 Radial/Distance
(Facility to Waypoint)
Identifier Reference
Facility Elevation

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

NAVIGATION AND COMMUNICATION BOXES - COMMON ELEMENTS
LOW ENROUTE CHARTS HIGH ENROUTE CHARTS

RCO Frequencies RCO Frequencies

NAVAID Name, SSV(s) NAVAID Name
FREQ, Ident, CH, Morse Code Frequency, Ident, SSV(s), Channel
Latitude, Longitude Latitude, Longitude
Controlling FSS Name
Controlling FSS Name

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

VHF/UHF LF/MF
NAVAID Box

Thin line NAVAID boxes without frequency(s) and FSS radio name
indicates no FSS frequencies available.

Shadow NAVAID box indicates NAVAID and Flight Service Station

(FSS) have same name.

75
 RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)

Navigation and Communication Boxes - Common Elements

NAVAID STANDARD SERVICE VOLUME (SSV) CLAS-
SIFICATIONS

(VL), (T), etc. indicate SSV. See “NAVAID STANDARD SERVICE (T) (L) (VL) (H) (VH) (DL) (DH)
VOLUME (SSV) CLASSIFICATIONS” on page 64 or the Chart
Supplement for SSV Altitude and Range Boundaries.

DISTANCE MEASURING EQUIPMENT

Facilities that operate in the “Y” mode for DME reception

(Y)

VOICE COMMUNICATIONS VIA NAVAID

Voice Transmitted

No Voice Transmitted

VHF/UHF LF/MF
NAVAID SHUTDOWN STATUS

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

VHF/UHF LF/MF
PART TIME OR ON-REQUEST

AUTOMATED WEATHER BROADCAST SERVICES
VHF/UHF LF/MF
ASOS/AWOS - Automated Surface Observing Station/Automated
Weather Observing Station

LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE

LOW ENROUTE HIGH ENROUTE
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.

Navigation and Communication Boxes - Examples

LOW ENROUTE CHARTS HIGH ENROUTE CHARTS

VOR 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 - MACON

76
RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)

Navigation And Communication Boxes - Examples (Continued)

LOW ENROUTE CHARTS HIGH ENROUTE CHARTS

VOR/DME VOR/DME

No Voice Communications Off Route (Greyed NAVAID Box
(Y) Mode DME and NAVAID)

R - Receive only 122.1R DME in Y Mode

Controlling FSS Name - BUFFALO

Shadow NAVAID Box Shadow NAVAID Box

FSS Associated with NAVAID FSS Associated with NAVAID

TACAN TACAN

TACAN Channels are without Off Route
voice but not underlined
Off Route - Part Time NAVAID
Part Time NAVAID (Greyed NAVAID Box and NAVAID)

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

VORTAC VORTAC

Shutdown status Off Route (Greyed NAVAID Box

and NAVAID)

DME DME

DME Channel, Ident, Morse Code, DME Channel, Ident,
VHF Frequency VHF Frequency

NDB NDB

A - ASOS/AWOS Available

Shutdown status

NDB/DME NDB/DME

No Voice Communications No Voice Communications
(Y) Mode DME (Y) Mode DME

Shadow NAVAID Box Shadow NAVAID Box

FSS Associated with NAVAID FSS Associated with NAVAID

Notes: Morse Code is not shown on High NAVAID Boxes.

77
 RADIO AIDS TO NAVIGATION (Continued)

Stand Alone Flight Services and Communication Outlets

LOW CHARTS HIGH CHARTS
Flight Service Station (FSS)
Stand Alone FSS Stand Alone FSS
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.
Stand Alone FSS Associated Stand Alone FSS Associated
Frequencies transmit and receive except those followed by R and with an Airport with an Airport
T:
R - Receive Only
T - Transmit Only

Part-time FSS
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

Remote Communications Outlet (RCO)

Stand Alone RCO Stand Alone 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.
RCO Associated/Co-located with RCO Associated/Co-located with
an Airport an Airport
BURLIN G TO N 122.4
G LENS FALLS
Floyd Bennett Meml
(G FL)

Stand Alone AWOS & ASOS

78
AIRSPACE INFORMATION

Airway/Route Types VHF/UHF Data is depicted in Black.

Low and High Enroute Airway Data: LF/MF Data is depicted in Brown.
RNAV Route data is depicted in Blue

Low Enroute Charts High Enroute Charts

Victor Airways Jet Routes

LF/MF Airway Atlantic Routes

RNAV T Route Bahama Routes

GNSS Required
RNAV Q Routes
RNAV TK Helicopter Route Alaska Q Routes require GNSS and radar surveillance. Within the
CONUS, GNSS or DME/DME/IRU RNAV required, unless other-
GNSS Required wise indicated. DME/DME/IRU aircraft require radar surveillance.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

$V0
Preferred Direction Victor Route Preferred Direction Jet Routes

Unusable Route Segment Preferred Direction RNAV Q Routes

Military Training Routes (MTR) Preferred Direction ATS Route

MTRs 5NM or less both sides
of centerline
Unusable Route Segment
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

Low and High Enroute Charts

ATS Route Substitute Route

All relative and supporting data See NOTAMs or appropriate

Oceanic Route shown in brown. publication for specific
information.

79
 Airspace Information (Continued)
FIXES WAYPOINTS
VHF/UHF LF/MF REPORTING FUNCTION RNAV
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 N/A

- Arrow points away from the VHF/UHF NAVAID
- Arrow points towards the LF/MF NAVAID

Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) Fix N/A

Denotes DME fix (distance same as airway / route mileage)

VHF/UHF Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) Fix RNAV

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

N/A
Denotes DME fix (encircled mileage shown when not other-
wise obvious)

Example:
N/A
First segment, 5NM; second segment 10NM; total milage
provided in encircled DME arrow.

VHF/UHF LF/MF RNAV

Total Mileages between Compulsory Reporting
Points or NAVAIDs N/A

Note: All mileages are in Nautical Miles

MILEAGE BETWEEN OTHER FIXES, NAVAIDs

AND/OR MILEAGE BREAKDOWN

Mileage Breakdown or Computer Navigation Fix

(CNF) N/A
Five letter identifier in parentheses indicates CNF with no
ATC function

FACILITY LOCATOR BOATS N/A

Crosshatch indicates Shutdown status of NAVAID

RADIAL OUTBOUND FROM A VHF/UHF NAVAID N/A

N/A All Radials are magnetic.

BEARING INBOUND TO AN LF/MF NAVAID

N/A
N/A All Bearings are magnetic.

MAGNETIC REFERENCE BEARING, outbound from

N/A N/A a NAVAID or Fix
Note: Not shown on joint Victor/RNAV or Jet/RNAV Routes.

80
Airspace Information (Continued)
VHF/UHF LF/MF RNAV
LOW CHARTS LOW CHARTS MINIMUM ENROUTE ALTITUDE (MEA) LOW CHARTS
All Altitudes Are MSL Unless Otherwise Noted.

Directional MEAs

HIGH CHARTS HIGH CHARTS HIGH CHARTS

MEAs are shown on IFR High Altitude Charts when MEA is
MEA- 29000 MEA-FL240 other than 18,000’. MEA for GNSS RNAV
aircraft
MEA- 24000G

MEA for DME/DME/IRU

RNAV aircraft
MEA- 24000D

MINIMUM ENROUTE ALTITUDE (MEA) GAP

LOW CHARTS N/A
MEA is established when there is a gap in navigation signal
coverage.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

HIGH CHARTS
TWISP MEA- 24000
MEA G AP
$J505$
65
108 91 279

LOW / HIGH LOW / HIGH Maximum Authorized Altitude (MAA) LOW / HIGH
CHARTS CHARTS All Altitudes Are MSL Unless Otherwise Noted. CHARTS

MAAs are shown on IFR High Altitude Charts when MAA is

other than 45,000’.

Minimum Obstruction Clearance Altitude (MOCA) LOW CHARTS

LOW CHARTS LOW CHARTS
All Altitudes Are MSL Unless Otherwise Noted.

LOW CHARTS LOW CHARTS

Minimum Turning Altitude (MTA) and Minimum LOW CHARTS
Crossing Altitude (MCA)

See Low Enroute Chart Example below for examples of

both MTAs and MCAs.

MINIMUM RECEPTION ALTITUDE (MRA) N/A

ALTITUDE CHANGE
MEA, MOCA and/or MAA change at other than NAVAIDs

LOW / HIGH LOW / HIGH CHANGEOVER POINT N/A

CHARTS CHARTS
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)

81
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Enroute Chart Examples

Low Enroute Chart

1
2
3
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

4 6

82
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Enroute Chart Examples
Low Enroute Chart (Continued)

Reference Number Description

Multiple MCAs at a NAVAID

1
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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

MCA and MRA at a Fix

2 MCA at SABAT on V298 of 11,100 traveling East.

MRA at SABAT of 10000.

Example of MOCA and directional MEAs along a Victor

3 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

8100

4 MCA Example

MCA at OSITY on V330. MCA of 9500’ traveling East on V330

from Idaho Falls (IDA) VOR-DME.

83
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)
Enroute Chart Examples

Low Enroute Chart (Continued)

Reference Number Description

MEA VHF and RNAV Example

5
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

6
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’
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

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.

84
Airspace Information (Continued)
Enroute Chart Examples
High Enroute Chart

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

3

Reference Number Description

High RNAV Route with MEA for DME/DME/IRU RNAV

Aircraft

MEA of 24,000’
1

Preferred Directional Jet Route with Time Restrictions

Jet Route 34 available between 1100 - 0300Z

85
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Enroute Chart Examples

High Enroute Chart (Continued)

Reference Number Description

Preferred Directional Jet Route with Time Restrictions,

MAA and MEA

3 Jet Route 149 available between 1100 - 0300Z

MAA - 41,000’
MEA - 31,000’

AIRSPACE BOUNDARIES
LOW / HIGH CHARTS LOW / HIGH CHARTS
Air Defense Air Route Traffic Control
Identification Zone (ADIZ) Center (ARTCC)
ARTCC Name
ALASKA ADIZ ARTCC Remoted Sites with Site Name
Frequency
discrete VHF and UHF frequencies
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

CAN ADA ADIZ

Adjoining ADIZ Air Route Traffic Control Center

(ARTCC) with Controller Pilot
Air Traffic Service LOW / HIGH CHARTS Data Link Communications
Identification Data (CPDLC)
Ceiling
Floor
Call Sign
Frequency

Altimeter Setting Change
Ceiling
Floor
Call Sign
Frequency

LOW / HIGH CHARTS

Flight Information Regions (FIR) Control Areas (CTA)
LOW / HIGH CHARTS
NEW YO RK O CEAN IC CTA/FIR KZWY

MIAMI O C EANIC C TA/FIR KZMA

Adjoining CTA

Additional Control Areas

LOW ALTITUDE
Upper Information Regions
(UIR) HIGH ALTITUDE
CONTROL 1419 H
Upper Control Areas (UTA)

Foreign Airspace Note

NOTE: Limited chart information provided outside U.S. airspace.

Refer to DoD (NGA) or foreign charts and flight information
publications outside U.S. airspace.

86
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Airspace - U.S.
Class A Open Area (White)

High Chart Only That airspace from 18,000’ MSL to and including FL 600,
including the airspace overflying the waters within 12 NM
Controlled of the coast of the contiguous United States and Alaska
Airspace 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.

Class B
Screened Blue with a Solid Blue Outline Example:
Low Chart Only

Controlled

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

MO
DE
Airspace

C
&
MO

AD
DE

S-
B
C
30 DS-B

OU
&A
NM

T
OUT

MOD
C&E
MO

AD
DE

S-B
30 ADS
C
NM -B

OU
&

T
OU
T

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.

Mode C Area A Solid Blue Outline

Example:
Low Chart Only That airspace within 30 NM of the primary airports of
Class B airspace and within 10 NM of designated airports. See Chart example above.
Controlled Mode-C transponder and ADS-B Out equipment is re-
Airspace quired. (See FAR 91.215)

87
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Airspace - U.S. (Continued)

CLASS C Screened Blue with a Solid Blue Dashed Outline Example:

Low Chart Only

Controlled Air-
space

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.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

CLASS D Open Area (White) Example:

Low Chart Only

Controlled Air-
space

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.

88
Airspace Information (Continued)

AIRSPACE - U.S.
CLASS E
Open Area (White)
Low Chart Only
The controlled airspace below 14,500’ MSL that is not
Controlled Air- Class B, C or D.
space
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.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

CLASS G
Screened Brown Area Example:
High and Low
Chart

Uncontrolled
Airspace

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.

89
 AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Special Use Airspace - U.S.

Low and High P - Prohibited Area Example: P-56 -
Charts Washington DC, Area A-1 Chart

Example: P-40 and R-4009 -

Washington DC, Area A-1 Chart

R - Restricted Area Example: R3601A -

W - Warning Area Example: W-50

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

See Airspace Tabulation on each chart for complete

documentation information on:

Area Identification
Effective Altitude
Operating Times
Controlling Agency Voice Call

Low Charts Only

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 Call

90
AIRSPACE INFORMATION (Continued)

Off Route Obstruction Clearance Altitude (OROCA)

Low Charts Only OROCA is computed similarly to the Maximum Elevation Example: Low L-13 Chart
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 feet

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA)
Low and High SFRA Symbology Example: Low Chart (Washington Area Chart)
Charts

Example: High Chart (H-12)

91
 NAVIGATIONAL AND PROCEDURAL INFORMATION
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 RVSM Levels FL290 to FL410 FL430 and above
as assigned by ATC

All courses are magnetic.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

VFR or VFR On Top No VFR or VFR On Top
add 500’ authorized above FL285 in
RVSM airspace.
No VFR flights within
Class A Airspace above
3000’ AGL unless
otherwise authorized

92
Navigational and Procedural Information (Continued)

ISOGONIC LINE AND LOW/HIGH CHARTS TIME ZONE

VALUE
All time is Coordinated Universal
Time (UTC)

During periods of Day-

lights Savings Time (DT),
effective hours will be one
hour earlier than shown.
ENLARGEMENT AREA
All states observe DT ex-
cept Arizona and Hawaii

MATCH MARK LOW/HIGH CHARTS

MORSE CODE

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

CULTURE

Boundaries

International LOW/HIGH ALTITUDE Date Line LOW/HIGH ALTITUDE

U.S./Russia Maritime Line LOW/HIGH ALTITUDE

HYDROGRAPHY

SHORELINES

TOPOGRAPHY

TERRAIN
Area Charts

93
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - IFR Enroute Symbology

94
 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:

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

• Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) Charts
• Airport Diagrams
• Departure Procedures (DP)
• Standard Terminal Arrival (STAR) Charts
• Charted Visual Flight Procedure (CVFP) Charts

95
 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
Briefing Strip
Information
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

Margin Identification
Planview

Information
SE-3, 03 MAR 2016 to 31 MAR 2016

SE-3, 03 MAR 2016 to 31 MAR 2016

NOT FOR NAVIGATION Airport

Sketch
Profile
Landing
Minimums

96
Margin Identification Information

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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.

97
 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), AL-227 (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
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

parentheses following the airport name. Airports outside the contiguous United States will be shown with the FAA desig-
nated identifier followed by the ICAO location identifier.

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

98
The coordinates for the airport reference point are located at the center of the bottom margin.

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

Middle Briefing Strip

Communications Briefing Strip

Top Briefing Strip

The top briefing strip contains procedural information in three separate boxes, in the following sequence from left to right:

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

1 2 3
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. Rwy Ldg may not reflect full
runway length due to displaced thresholds and shorter declared distances.

Top Briefing Strip Examples:

Ground based NAVAID:

RNAV-WAAS:

GBAS:

99
 No Primary NAVAID box:

Circling Approach:

Sidestep Procedure:
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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:

1 2 3
APPROACH MISSED APPROACH
NOTES BOX LIGHTING
SYSTEM PROCEDURE TEXT BOX

• 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.

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.

100
On procedures with both PBN elements and ground-based equipment requirements, the PBN requirements box is listed
first.

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.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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 WAAS
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.

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.

101
 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
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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.

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 (Terrain Features)

102
Approach Segments

The planview includes a graphical depiction of procedure entry through missed approach.

NOT FOR
NE-3, 18 AUG 2016 to 15 SEP 2016

NAVIGATION

NE-3, 18 AUG 2016 to 15 SEP 2016

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

Simple IAP Example
Legend

Feeder Route Initial Approach Intermediate Approach Final Approach Course Missed Approach

103
 SW-1, 18 AUG 2016 to 15 SEP 2016

SW-1, 18 AUG 2016 to 15 SEP 2016

NOT FOR
NAVIGATION
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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. Missed Approach Procedure Track is shown as a hash marked line in the planview. If the
missed approach fix falls outside of the area of the planview it will be shown in a separate box in the planview.

• DME arcs or Radius-to-Fix legs (RF) are shown as smooth arcs from a designated start point to a designated
terminus.

104
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
• 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

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.

105
 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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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)

106
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 Airspeeds Along the Procedure Track

Restrictive airspeeds along the procedure track 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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

Altitudes

Restrictive altitudes along the procedure track are shown paired with their respective fix/ facility. Minimum, Maximum,
Mandatory and Recommended 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 Mandatory block altitude is depicted with a minimum and a maximum altitude.
Altitude

Altitudes that are shown along a route are minimum altitudes.

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.

107
 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 VECTOR 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.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

Relief (Terrain Features)

Terrain 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 use of contours, spot elevations, and gradient
tints of brown on all IAPs for that airport. Contour layers will be shown in no more than five brown tints, with consecutively
darker tints used for consecutively higher elevation contour layers.

108
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms
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.

Obstacles (Man-made, Terrain and Vegetation)

Obstacles are shown as when they are man-made or vegetation or as a when they are terrain. The highest ob-
stacle, whether man-made or terrain is depicted with a bolder and larger symbol along with larger elevation font size. Any
obstacle that penetrates a slope of 67:1 emanating from any point along the centerline of any runway shall be considered
for charting within the area shown to scale. Obstacles specifically identified by the approving authority for charting shall be
charted regardless of the 67:1 requirement.

Unverified obstacles shall be indicated by a doubtful accuracy symbol following the elevation value.

109
 On non-precision approaches, obstacles should be considered when determining where to begin descent from the MDA.

Highest Point - Obstacle Highest Point - Terrain Unverified Obstacle - Obstacle

Special Use Airspace (SUA)

SUAs consists of that airspace wherein activities must be confined because of their nature, or
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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

110
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.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

Example of Standard TAA

111
 Non-standard TAAs may also be published; i.e., one base leg, no base legs.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

Example of Non-Standard TAA

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)

112
When a visual flight path or VFR segment is required from the MAP to the heliport or alighting area, and as necessary for
an explicit portrayal, an inset of the MAP area may be provided. This MAP area will depict significant landmark visual fea-
tures. The procedure track, value and distance to the MAP and the visual segment and value to the landing point shall be
shown within this inset. If it is a VFR segment, the reference bearing and distance text will be shown at the landing point.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

Example of Copter with Inset

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 the
missed approach fix 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.
113
 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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

10000 via heading 190° and SVC VOR/DME R-193 to KUNRE

INT/SVC VOR/DME 24.1 DME and hold.

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.

114
 FAA 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.

Traditional (NAVAID) Approach RNAV Approach

115
 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
inbound on the final approach course. Stepdown fixes may also be provided between the FAF and the airport for autho-
rizing a lower minimum descent altitude (MDA) and are depicted with the fix or facility name and a dashed line. Altitude
restrictions at stepdown fixes on the final approach on procedures with both precision and non-precision minima are not
applicable to precision (ILS, LPV, or LNAV/VNAV) use of the approach. On non-precision only approach procedures, the
approach track descends to the MDA or VDP point, thence horizontally to the missed approach point.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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.

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.

116
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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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.

34:1 Surface Clear Stipple 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.)

117
 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.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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.

118
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 frac-
tional 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.

When a reference mark (*, **, #, etc.) is shown on a line of minimums, the qualifying footnote is provided in the notes sec-
tion.

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

119
 Circling Minimums

There was a change to the TERPS criteria in 2012 that affects circling area dimension by expanding the areas to provide
improved obstacle protection. To indicate that the new criteria had been applied to a given procedure, a is placed on
the circling line of minimums. The new circling tables and explanatory information is located in the Legend of the TPP.

The approaches using standard circling approach areas can be identified by the absence of the on the circling line of
minima.

Apply Expanded Circling Approach Maneuvering Airspace Radius

Table

Apply Standard Circling Approach Maneuvering Radius Table

AIRPORT SKETCH

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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 Metal Surface Closed Runway Under Construction
Hard Surface

Stopways, Displaced Closed Water Runway

Taxiways, Park- Threshold Pavement
ing Areas

Taxiways and aprons are shaded grey. Other runway features that may be shown are runway numbers, runway dimen-
sions, runway slope, arresting gear, and displaced threshold.

Other information concerning lighting, final approach bearings, airport beacon, obstacles, control tower, NAVAIDs, heli-
pads may also be shown.

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.

120
Runway Lights

Notes regarding approach lighting systems are shown at the bottom of the sketch box. Run-
way lights (HIRL) (MIRL) (LIRL) (TDZL)(TDZ/CL) shall be indicated by a note, e.g. HIRL Rwy
9-27.

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 (CL) are installed on some precision approach runways to facilitate
landing under adverse visibility conditions. They are located along the runway centerline and
are spaced at 50 foot intervals. Runways with CL 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 paired with TDZL, e.g., TDZ/CL
Rwys 6 and 24.

Time/Distance Table

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

When applicable, a Time/Distance Table is provided below the airport sketch. The table provides 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.

121
 Airport Diagram Features:

1. Runways

a. Complete with magnetic headings

(including magnetic variation and ep-
och 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 (landing
gear configuration or Pavement Clas-
sification 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
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

(EMAS).

2. Taxiways, with identifiers. Taxiways un-

der construction shall also be shown.
3. Hot Spot locations.
4. Parking areas, run-up pads, alert
areas, landing pads, “Non-Movement”
areas (where pilot is NOT under air
traffic control), ramps, aprons and hold
pads.
5. Turnarounds, blast pads, stopways,
overruns, and clearways (include di-
mensions when known).
6. Large tanks, including fueling area.
7. Control towers (include tower height).
8. Airport beacon.
9. Helicopter pads.
10. Radar reflectors.
11. Highest obstruction within diagram
boundary.
12. Any building that pilot can taxi to. Other
buildings to include terminal/adminis-
tration and Base operations, fire sta-
tion, NWS, AFSS, FAA, FSDO, ANG,
USCG, FBO.
13. Comm Frequencies.

Note: Star when used in the Comm Frequencies indicates part-time status. Check Chart Supplement for times of
operation.

122
Runway Construction

Runway construction is depicted as follows:

Hard Surface Other Than Metal Surface Closed Runway Under Construction
Hard Surface

Stopways, Displaced Closed Water Runway

Taxiways, Park- Threshold Pavement
ing Areas

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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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 polygon 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 http://www.faa.gov/airports/runway_safety/hotspots/hotspots_list/.

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.

Copter DPs may also include a visual or VFR segment. Visual segments are depicted using the dashed line symbol be-
low.

Visual Flight Segment

123
 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.
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Terms

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.

124
 U.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

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

125
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023
PLANVIEW SYMBOLS (Continued)

126
NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols
NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

127
PROFILE VIEW

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

128
STANDARD TERMINAL ARRIVAL (STAR) CHARTS

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols
NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

129
DEPARTURE PROCEDURE (DP) CHARTS

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023
AIRPORT DIAGRAM/AIRPORT SKETCH

130
H1

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols
NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

131
APPROACH LIGHTING SYSTEM

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP) - Symbols

NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023

APPROACH LIGHTING SYSTEM (Continued)

132
NE-1, 15 JUN 2023 to 10 AUG 2023
 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 FAA-H-8083-3A

URL: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/
airplane_handbook/

Helicopter Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-21A

URL: http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/heli-
copter_flying_handbook/

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - References

Instrument Procedures Handbook FAA-H-8083-16B

URL: http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/in-
strument_procedures_handbook/

Instrument Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-15B

URL: http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/me-
dia/FAA-H-8083-15B.pdf

Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge FAA-H-8083-25B

URL: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/
phak/

Remote Pilot - Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide FAA-G-8082-22

URL: http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/me-
dia/remote_pilot_study_guide.pdf

133
 FAA Chart Users’ Guide - References

134
 ABBREVIATIONS
A CTAF - Common Traffic Advisory Frequency
CVFP - Charted Visual Flight Procedure
AAF - Army Air Field CZ - Control Zone (Canada)
AAS - Airport Advisory Service
AAUP - Attention All Users Page D
AC - Advisory Circular
ADF - Automatic Direction Finder DA - Decision Altitude
ADIZ - Air Defense Identification Zone DA - Density Altitude
ADS - Automatic Dependent Surveillance D-ATIS - Digital Automatic Terminal Information Service
ADS-B - Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast DH - Decision Height
Advsry - Advisory DME - Distance Measuring Equipment
AFB - Air Force Base DND - Department of National Defense (Canada)
AFIS - Automatic Flight Information Service DoD - Department of Defense
AFS - Air Force Station DOF - Digital Obstacle File
AFSS - Automated Flight Service Station DP - Departure Procedure
AGL - Above Ground Level DT - Daylight Savings Time
AIM - Aeronautical Information Manual DVA - Diverse Vector Area
AIRAC - Aeronautical Information Regulation And Control
AK - Alaska
E
AL - Approach and Landing
ANG - Air National Guard
E - East
APP - Approach
EFAS - Enroute Flight Advisory Service
APP CON - Approach Control

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Abbreviations

EFB - Electronic Flight Bag
APP CRS - Approach Course
Elev - Elevation
Apt - Airport
EMAS - Engineered Materials Arresting System
APV - Approaches with Vertical Guidance
ARP - Airport Reference Point
ARTCC - Air Route Traffic Control Center F
ASDA - Accelerate-Stop Distance Available
ASDE-X - Airport Surface Detection Equipment-Model X FAA - Federal Aviation Administration
ASOS - Automated Surface Observing Station FAF - Final Approach Fix
ASR - Airport Surveillance Radar FAP - Final Approach Point
ATC - Air Traffic Control FAR - Federal Aviation Regulation
ATIS - Automatic Terminal Information Service FBO - Fixed-Based Operator
ATS - Air Traffic Service FIR - Flight Information Region
AUNICOM - Automated Aeronautical Advisory Station FL - Flight Level
AWOS - Automated Weather Observing Station FLIP - Flight Information Publication
FMS - Flight Management System
FREQ - Frequency
B FRZ - Flight Restricted Zone
FSDO - Flight Standards District Office
Baro-VNAV - Barometric Vertical Navigation
FSS - Flight Service Station
BS - Broadcast Station

G
C
GBAS - Ground-Based Augmentation System
CAC - Caribbean Aeronautical Chart
GCO - Ground Communications Outlet
CAT - Category
GLS - GBAS Landing System
CFA - Controlled Firing Areas
GND - Ground
CFR - Code of Federal Regulations
GND CON - Ground Control
CH - Channel
GNSS - Global Navigation Satellite System
CL - Runway Centerline Lights
GP - Glide Path
CLNC DEL - Clearance Delivery
GPS - Global Positioning System
CNF - Computer Navigation Fix
GS - Glide Slope
COP - Changeover Point
GS - Ground Speed
CPDLC - Controller Pilot Data Link Communication
CRS - Course
CT - Control Tower

135
 H MEA - Minimum Enroute Altitude
MEF - Maximum Elevation Figure
HAA - Height Above Airport MF - Medium Frequency
HAR - High Altitude Redesign MIA - Minimum IFR Altitude
HAT - Height Above Touchdown MIRL - Medium Intensity Runway Lights
HCH - Heliport Crossing Height MOA - Military Operations Areas
HF - High Frequency MOCA - Minimum Obstruction Clearance Altitude
HIRL - High Intensity Runway Lights MON - Minimum Operational Network
HS - Hot Spot MORA - Minimum Off-Route Altitude
MRA - Minimum Reception Altitude
I MSA - Minimum Safe Altitude
MSL - Mean Sea Level
IAC - Interagency Air Committee MTA - Minimum Turning Altitude
IACC - Interagency Air Cartographic Committee MTR - Military Training Route
IAF - Initial Approach Fix MVA - Minimum Vector Altitude
IAP - Instrument Approach Procedure
ICAO - International Civil Aviation Authority N
IDT - Identifier
IF - Intermediate Fix N - North
IFR - Instrument Flight Rules N/A - Not Applicable
ILS - Instrument Landing System NA - Not Authorized
IMC - Instrument Meteorological Conditions NAAS - Naval Auxiliary Air Station
INS - Inertial Navigation System NAS - Naval Air Station
IR - Instrument Route (Military) NAS - National Airspace System
IRU - Inertial Reference Unit NAV - Naval Air Facility
FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Abbreviations

NAVAID - Navigational Aid (Ground based)

J NDB - Non-Directional Radiobeacon
NextGen - Next Generation Air Transportation System
JO - Joint Order NFDC - National Flight Data Center
NFPO - National Flight Procedures Office
NM - Nautical Mile
K NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NO A/G - No Air-to-Ground Communication
KIAS - Knots
NOTAM - Notice to Air Missions, formerly known as Notice
to Airmen
L NoPT - No Procedure Turn
NPA - Non-Precision Approach
LAA - Local Airport Advisory NTAP - Notices to Air Missions Publication
LAAS - Local Area Augmentation System NWS - National Weather Service
LAHSO - Land and Hold Short
LDA - Landing Distance Available
O
LDA - Localizer-type Directional Aid
Ldg - Landing
OAT - Outside Air Temperature
LF - Low Frequency
OBS - Omni Bearing Selector
LIRL - Low Intensity Runway Lights
OCA - Ocean Control Area
LNAV - Lateral Navigation
OCS - Obstacle Clearance Surface
LOC - Localizer
ODP - Obstacle Departure Procedure
LOM - Locator Outer Marker
OM - Outer Marker
LPV - Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance
OROCA - Off Route Obstruction Clearance Altitude
LRRS - Long Range Radar Station
LTP - Landing Threshold Point
P
M PA - Precision Approach
PAR - Precision Approach Radar
MAA - Maximum Authorized Altitude
PBN - Performance-Based Navigation
MAP - Missed Approach Point
PRM - Precision Runway Monitor
MCA - Minimum Crossing Altitude
PT - Procedure Turn
MCAS - Marine Corps Air Station
PTP - Point-to-Point
MDA - Minimum Descent Altitude
Pvt - Private
MDH - Minimum Descent Height
136
R TOC - Top of Climb
TOD - Top of Descent
R - Radial TODA - Takeoff Distance Available
R - Receive TOGA - Takeoff/Go Around
R - Restricted Area (Special Use Airspace) TORA - Takeoff Runway Available
RCO - Remote Communications Outlet TPP - Terminal Procedures Publication
RF - Radius-to-Fix TRSA - Terminal Radar Service Area
RNAV - Area Navigation TWR - Tower
RNP - Required Navigation Performance
RNP AR - Required Navigation Performance Authorization U
Required
ROC - Required Obstacle Clearance UC - Under Construction
RP - Right Pattern UHF - Ultra High Frequency
RVR - Runway Visual Range UIR - Upper Information Region
RVSM - Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum UNICOM - Universal Communications
Rwy - Runway U.S. - United States
USA - United States Army
S USAF - United States Air Force
USCG - United State Coast Guard
S - South UTA - Upper Control Area
SAAAR - Special Aircraft and Aircrew Authorization
Required V
SAAR - Special Aircraft and Aircrew Requirements
SATNAV - Satellite Navigation VCOA - Visual Climb Over Airport / Airfield
SDF - Simplified Directional Facility VDA - Vertical Descent Angle

FAA Chart Users’ Guide - Abbreviations

SER - Start End of Runway VDP - Visual Decent Point
SFAR - Special Flight Rules Area VFR - Visual Flight Rules
SFC - Surface VGSI - Visual Glide Slope Indicator
SFRA - Special Flight Rules Area VHF - Very High Frequency
SIAPs - Standard Instrument Approach Procedures VMC - Visual Meteorological Conditions
SID - Standard Instrument Departure VNAV - Vertical Navigation
SM - Statute Mile VOR - VHF Omnidirectional Radio Range
SMAR - Special Military Activity Routes VORTAC - VHF Omnidirectional Radio Range/Tactical Air
SMGCS - Surface Movement Guidance and Control Navigation
System VPA - Vertical Path Angle
SOIA - Simultaneous Offset Instrument Approaches VR - Visual Route (Military)
SSV - Standard Service Volume
STAR - Standard Terminal Arrival Procedure
SUA - Special Use Airspace W
SVFR - Special Visual Flight Rules
W - Warning Area (Special Use Airspace)
T W - West
WAAS - Wide-Area Augmentation System
T - Transmit WAC - World Aeronautical Chart
TA - Travel Advisory WP - Waypoint
TAA - Terminal Arrival Area WX CAM - Weather Camera (Alaska)
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
TDZ/CL - Touchdown Zone/Centerline Lights
TERPS - U.S. Standard for Terminal Instrument Procedures
TFR - Temporary Flight Restriction
TIBS - Telephone Information Briefing Service
TIS-B - Traffic Information Service - Broadcast

137