Navigating with a sectional chart is one of the most essential skills for any pilot. As a student pilot, learning how to read and understand a sectional chart is crucial for planning your cross-country flights and staying safe in the sky.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll cover:
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What a sectional chart is
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The different symbols and markings you need to understand
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How to use a sectional chart for flight planning and navigation
✈️ Download: Get our “Sectional Chart Cheat Sheet for Student Pilots” here to keep handy during your flight planning.
Table of Contents
What is a Sectional Chart?
A sectional chart is a detailed, scaled map designed for aviation navigation. Unlike standard road maps, sectional charts provide information like:
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Airspace boundaries
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Navigational aids (VORs, NDBs)
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Obstructions (mountains, towers)
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Airports (controlled and uncontrolled)
Sectionals are typically printed at a 1:500,000 scale (meaning 1 inch equals about 6.85 miles), which provides a good level of detail for visual navigation.
Why You Need to Learn How to Use a Sectional Chart
For student pilots, sectional charts are critical tools for:
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Planning your flight route: Before flying cross-country, you need to understand airspace boundaries, possible obstacles, and the location of airports.
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Navigating during flight: In case you lose visual contact with the ground, a sectional chart will guide you using VORs, NDBs, and other landmarks.
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Avoiding restricted airspace: You’ll know exactly where you can and can’t fly, ensuring safety and legal compliance.
Learning how to use a sectional chart is not just about understanding the symbols—it’s about becoming a safer, more competent pilot.
Key Components of a Sectional Chart
Here are the primary components you’ll find on every sectional chart:
1. Airspace Boundaries
Sectional charts display different airspace types, such as:
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Class B: Major airports with high-density traffic (usually near big cities)
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Class C: Airports with moderate traffic, typically surrounding a larger airport
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Class D: Smaller airports with controlled airspace
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Class E: General airspace (mostly uncontrolled)
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Class G: Uncontrolled airspace (below 1,200 feet AGL in some regions)
2. Airport Information
Airports are marked with specific symbols. You’ll see:
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Controlled airports with towers (solid circles)
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Uncontrolled airports (open circles)
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Heliports (H with a circle around it)
3. Navigational Aids (NAVAIDs)
You’ll also find symbols for VORs (VHF Omnidirectional Range) and NDBs (Non-Directional Beacons), which are used for navigation.
4. Topographical Information
Mountain ranges, lakes, rivers, and other natural landmarks are shown to help you visually navigate.
How to Read a Sectional Chart
1. Identify Your Location
Find your starting point and destination on the chart. You may use landmarks, cities, or lat/long coordinates.
2. Check Airspace Classifications
Know which airspace you’ll be flying through. This will help you avoid controlled airspace or obtain permission to fly through restricted zones. Look for the color-coded airspace and boundaries.
3. Route Planning
Use VORs and airways for your planned route. VORs provide a reliable method of navigation, especially when flying long distances.
4. Altitude and Obstructions
Always check for altitude restrictions and obstacles such as mountains or towers that might affect your flight.
5. Flight Restrictions
Look for TFRs (Temporary Flight Restrictions) and restricted areas—these are marked with a dashed line and indicate airspace where flying may be prohibited.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Sectional Chart
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Locate your departure and destination points on the chart.
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Plan your route by identifying nearby VORs, navigational aids, and landmarks.
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Check the airspace you’ll be flying through and any associated restrictions.
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Verify your route’s altitude and avoid obstacles.
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Plot your course using a straightedge or flight planning software.
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Track your progress during flight by checking landmarks and VORs along your route.
Tip: When practicing flight planning, always check multiple charts (such as VFR sectional charts and approach plates) to get a full picture of the airspace.
Common Symbols and Markings You Need to Know
Here’s a quick rundown of some important symbols:
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Solid Circle | Controlled airport (towered) |
| Open Circle | Uncontrolled airport (non-towered) |
| VOR | VOR station for navigation (triangular symbol) |
| X Symbol | Obstacle (mountain or tower) |
| Dashed Lines | Restricted airspace or TFRs |
For a more comprehensive list, check the legend on the chart itself.
How to Practice Using Sectional Charts
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Start with short routes: Practice reading sectionals for nearby flights, focusing on finding landmarks and airspace boundaries.
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Use flight simulators: Virtual flight apps like SkyVector or ForeFlight can help you get familiar with sectional charts without leaving the ground.
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Discuss with your instructor: Have your instructor walk you through flight planning using sectional charts—hands-on experience is invaluable.
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Join group flights: Learn with peers by participating in flight planning sessions or group cross-country flights.
Final Thoughts
Mastering sectional charts is an essential part of your development as a student pilot. By learning how to read these charts, plan your routes, and understand airspace, you’ll be better equipped to handle any situation that comes your way. Always double-check your chart before flying to ensure a safe and compliant journey.
🛫 Next up: Learn how to calculate weight and balance for a safe and well-prepared flight.