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

The latitude and longitude grid on a sectional chart allows pilots to precisely locate airports, NAVAIDs, and waypoints using geographic coordinates for flight planning and filing.

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

After determining true course from the sectional chart, pilots apply wind correction angle to get true heading, then apply magnetic variation to get magnetic heading, and finally apply compass deviation to get compass heading.

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

The magnetic course to fly along a Victor airway is printed alongside the airway line on the sectional chart, derived from the VOR radial that defines the route.

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

FAA regulations require VFR aircraft above 3,000 feet AGL to fly odd thousands plus 500 feet (e.g., 3,500, 5,500, 9,500) when on magnetic courses 0°–179° (eastbound).

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

Checking MEF values during VFR planning helps ensure the planned cruise altitude clears all terrain and obstacles — pilots typically add at least 500 feet above MEF for a safety margin.

FAA - Sectional Chart Practice Test

FAA - Sectional Chart Practice Test

FAA Flight Planning with Sectional Charts 2