Most airports in the United States don't have a control tower. Looking at the FAA Sectional there are hundreds of airports and knowing what services are available and what to expect when you get to the airport is important. First, we can tell whether the airport has a control tower or not, just by looking at the symbol. A magenta symbol indicates that an airport is non-towered, … [Read more...] about Uncontrolled Airport Diagrams – Sectional Chart
Video Lessons
How To Intercept and Fly DME Arcs
Note: This lesson uses a 2-4 degree rule of thumb for adjusting heading and radial. I know that the often taught method is "twist 10 turn 10" but for this lesson I chose to use the method outlined in the Instrument Flying Handbook just for standardization. DME Arcs may seem scary to new instrument pilots, but given a few quick and easy tips they can be as easy as tracking any … [Read more...] about How To Intercept and Fly DME Arcs
Drawing Holding Entries
I've gotten a few questions lately about how to properly draw a holding entry when looking at a hold. The process is the same for all holds regardless of position, direction, or if it has standard turns or not. The first step is to draw out the hold at the fix. Once you have drawn the hold, you then draw a long line along the holding course which extends beyond the dimensions … [Read more...] about Drawing Holding Entries
Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF) – Sectional Chart
One of the most important numbers on a sectional is the Maximum Elevation Figure, or MEF. The MEF depicts the lowest altitude you can fly and still be assured to clear every obstacle within that quadrant. MEF's are calculated two ways, one for natural obstacles, and one for man-made obstacles. Each method ensures the highest level of safety and that as long as you stay … [Read more...] about Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF) – Sectional Chart
Jeppesen vs. NACO (FAA) Approach Charts
** Spoiler Alert ** I'm a huge fan of Jeppesen instrument charts. I learned how to fly instruments using Jeppesen charts, and I continue to use Jeppesen charts every day at work. This video is biased toward Jeppesen however I hope it clearly shows the differences between the two chart products. --- One of the first challenges facing any instrument student is what chart … [Read more...] about Jeppesen vs. NACO (FAA) Approach Charts