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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Chart Selection and Preparation

Introduction

Navigation is a vital component of flight operations, requiring pilots to accurately select and utilize various aeronautical charts. This section focuses on choosing appropriate charts and effectively utilizing them to draw tracks, track error lines, and time/distance markings. The content aligns with the learning outcomes related to the CASA Private Pilot License (PPL) theory exam requirements.

Selecting Appropriate Charts

World Aeronautical Charts (WACs)

World Aeronautical Charts (WACs) provide a comprehensive overview suitable for broad flight route planning within Australian airspace.

  • Scale: 1:1,000,000, which allows for extensive coverage.
  • Projection: Lambert’s conformal conic, appropriate for wide regional navigation.
  • Use Cases: Ideal for strategic pre-flight planning and in-flight navigation, particularly for navigating through less complex airspace.

WACs are standardized to comply with ICAO specifications and are available for a range of regions in Australia, including major cities and several regional areas Airservices Charts.

AIP Visual Charts

The Australian AIP provides a variety of visual charts, essential for pilots flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).

  • Visual Terminal Charts (VTC): Scale of 1:250,000, important for maneuvers near large aerodromes.
  • Visual Navigation Charts (VNC): Scale of 1:500,000, offering details near controlled zones for en route navigation.

These charts complement WACs by providing detailed local information, essential for the transition from broad to more detailed navigation when approaching terminal areas AIP Document and Chart Descriptions.

Drawing Tracks, Track Error Lines, and Time/Distance Markings

Accurate navigation requires pilots to skillfully draw and interpret tracks, track error lines, and mark time/distance on aeronautical charts.

Track Drawing Techniques

  • Drift Lines and Distance Marks: Utilize 10° drift lines and 10 nm distance marks for orientation, or alternatively, time marks if they better align with on-chart references.

Track Error Adjustment Methods

  1. Double Track Error Method: Applied when a position fix is achieved before the midpoint of a leg, adjusting the heading with observed drift lines.
  2. Track Error/Closing Angle Method: Utilized beyond the halfway mark, using calculated angles to correct the course deviation 1 in 60s: Determining time and distance.

1-in-60 Rule

This rule is fundamental for calculating Track Errors (TE):

Using this principle, pilots can correct track deviations effectively. Time and distance markers on charts assist in consistent monitoring and adjustment Track Error Adjustments - Pilotfriend.

Time/Distance Markings on Charts

Visual markers on charts indicate essential time and distance reference points, aiding in precise navigation checks and minor course adjustments.

Conclusion

Effective use of aeronautical charts is a critical skill for pilots, ensuring compliance with the planned route and maintaining flight safety. By selecting suitable charts and employing efficient track drawing and adjustment techniques, pilots can enhance their navigation accuracy and competence. Understanding the features and applications of WACs and AIP Visual Charts provides the foundation for this essential knowledge area.