In the United States, pilots have a choice: Use free, government-produced FAA charts (also known as "NACO charts") or pay for Jeppesen. Outside the US, Jeppesen is often the default.
+-------------------------------------------------------+ | 1. HEADER BRIEFING STRIP | | (Frequencies, Final Approach Course, Altitudes) | +-------------------------------------------------------+ | 2. PLAN VIEW | | (Bird's-eye view of the approach track & hazards) | +-------------------------------------------------------+ | 3. PROFILE VIEW | | (Side-view step-down fixes and glide path) | +-------------------------------------------------------+ | 4. MINIMUMS SECTION | | (Decision Heights and required visibilities) | +-------------------------------------------------------+ Section 1: The Header and Briefing Strip
A standard approach plate is divided into several logical sections: jeppesen chart
Today, Jeppesen is a subsidiary of Boeing. While the paper charts that made the company famous are still widely used, the "Jeppesen chart" has evolved into a sophisticated digital ecosystem. However, the core philosophy remains the same:
To navigate a Jeppesen chart, you must learn its shorthand. Here are a few critical symbols: In the United States, pilots have a choice:
Provides calculated Decision Altitudes (DA) and Minimum Descent Altitudes (MDA) for various aircraft categories and equipment statuses (e.g., inoperative lights). Vector-Based Graphics:
How to calculate using Jeppesen tables
Jeppesen has been a pioneer in the transition from paper to digital navigation. The company was one of the first to digitize navigational charts, and today, it is at the forefront of developing data-driven "Smart EFBs" that provide contextual aeronautical information based on a pilot's specific aircraft, location, and real-time conditions.
I approach 200 feet above the runway. I look at the Minimums box: "DA: 200 ft (MALSR lights operational)." I see the approach lights flash. I continue to land. If I had seen nothing, I would glance at the "Missed Approach" text—which tells me to climb straight ahead to 2,000 feet and turn left to the holding pattern. HEADER BRIEFING STRIP | | (Frequencies, Final Approach
A bird's-eye graphical view of the approach environment. It displays waypoints, standard transitions, holding patterns, terrain features, and critical obstacles surrounding the airport area. 5. Profile View
