FAA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield FAA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. On a sectional chart, a dashed contour line indicates what about the enclosed terrain? → Terrain below sea level (depression)
2. What does a number inside a Class B, C, or D airspace segment shown as, for example, '40' over '30' mean on a sectional chart? → Ceiling 4,000 feet MSL, floor 3,000 feet MSL
3. On a sectional chart, the graphic scale bar allows pilots to measure distances in what units? → Nautical miles and statute miles
4. On a sectional chart, the contour interval (elevation difference between consecutive contour lines) in mountainous areas is typically what? → 500 feet
5. What does a solid magenta line on a sectional chart typically denote? → Class C airspace boundary
6. On a sectional chart, what does a zigzag or jagged line bordering an area typically indicate? → Military operations area (MOA)
7. On a sectional chart, a VOR symbol with a surrounding compass rose indicates what? → The VOR radials can be used for navigation
8. What prefix is used to identify a Prohibited Area on a sectional chart? → P-
9. What label prefix on a sectional chart designates a prohibited area? → P
10. What minimum equipment is required to enter Class C airspace according to FAA regulations? → Mode C transponder and two-way radio
11. On a sectional chart, NDB stations are depicted in what color? → Magenta
12. On a FAA sectional chart, what does a solid blue circle with a dot in the center represent? → VOR station
13. What is the standard frequency range for VOR stations shown on sectional charts? → 108.0–117.95 MHz
14. On a sectional chart, a pilot notices the MEF for a grid square is '83'. What does this mean? → Maximum elevation is 8,300 feet MSL
15. On a sectional chart, the mileage shown between two waypoints along a Victor airway is measured in what units? → Nautical miles
16. On a sectional chart, Alert Areas are depicted to inform pilots of what? → Areas with a high volume of pilot training or unusual aerial activity
17. A parachute symbol on a sectional chart indicates what type of activity? → Skydiving operations
18. What is the floor altitude of Class A airspace in the contiguous United States? → 18,000 feet MSL
19. On a sectional chart, the 'star' or asterisk (*) symbol in an airport data block means what? → Lighting is available on part-time basis or pilot-controlled
20. On a VFR sectional chart, Military Operations Area (MOA) boundaries are depicted using: → Dashed magenta lines
21. A distinctive landmark or visual checkpoint on a sectional chart is often depicted by what symbol type? → A magenta circle or dot with the landmark name in magenta text
22. On a sectional chart, what does 'T' printed in the corner of a NAVAID data box signify? → Terminal VOR with limited service volume (25 nm, 12,000 feet)
23. On a sectional chart, a seaplane base is depicted by what symbol? → An open circle with a wave or anchor symbol
24. On a sectional chart, what does a blue or cyan dashed line bisecting terrain typically indicate? → Intermittent (seasonal) stream or river
25. What is the standard width of a Victor airway as depicted on a sectional chart? → 8 nm total (4 nm each side of centerline)
26. What is the typical upper limit of Class G (uncontrolled) airspace in the US where Class E begins at 1,200 feet AGL? → 1,200 feet AGL
27. What frequency range do NDBs operate on as shown in NDB data boxes on sectional charts? → 190–535 kHz
28. On a sectional chart, Class B airspace is depicted by what type of line? → Solid blue line
29. On a sectional chart, what does 'D' in a VOR box indicate? → DME (Distance Measuring Equipment) is collocated
30. On a sectional chart, which symbol indicates a Class D airspace boundary? → Dashed blue circle