FAA Flight Planning with Sectional Charts 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of the latitude and longitude grid on a sectional chart?

Accepted Answer

To precisely locate positions using geographic coordinates

Answer

To calculate magnetic variation corrections

Answer

To identify MEF grid squares for terrain clearance

Answer

To mark airspace boundaries

Question 2

When flying a VFR cross-country, a pilot uses a sectional chart to identify the true course and then applies magnetic variation. What step comes next?

Accepted Answer

Apply wind correction angle to get true heading, then apply variation

Answer

Apply compass deviation to get compass heading

Answer

File the flight plan with the true course

Answer

Multiply by 1.15 to convert to statute miles

Question 3

On a sectional chart, Victor airways are shown as blue lines. How does a pilot determine the magnetic course to fly along a Victor airway?

Accepted Answer

Read the magnetic radial printed alongside the airway line on the chart

Answer

Use the VOR compass rose and identify the relevant radial

Answer

Calculate from the chart's lat/lon grid using true course and variation

Answer

Ask ATC for the assigned heading

Question 4

When planning a VFR flight at 9,500 feet MSL on an eastbound course (magnetic course 090°), what is the correct VFR cruising altitude rule?

Accepted Answer

Fly at odd thousands plus 500 feet for eastbound (0°–179°): 9,500 feet is correct

Answer

Fly at 9,500 feet — any altitude is acceptable

Answer

Fly at even thousands for eastbound: 8,000 feet

Answer

Fly at odd thousands for eastbound: 9,000 feet

Question 5

What is the purpose of checking MEF values in each sectional chart grid square during VFR flight planning?

Accepted Answer

To ensure planned cruise altitude provides at least 500 feet clearance above the highest terrain and obstacles

Answer

To determine IFR minimum enroute altitudes

Answer

To calculate fuel burn rates over varying terrain

Answer

To identify which squares have military activity

Question 6

On a sectional chart, what does the bold blue dashed line with 'VFR FLYWAY' printed near a major city indicate?

Accepted Answer

Recommended VFR flyway to help pilots avoid Class B airspace while navigating near a busy terminal area

Answer

Mandatory VFR route through Class B airspace

Answer

Restricted corridor for VFR military training

Answer

IFR transition corridor for slow aircraft