These are the "road maps" for instrument flight, depicting the complex network of airways, navigation aids (VORs, NDBs), jet routes, and airspace boundaries. Jeppesen offers different series for low, high, and combined (high-low) altitude operations, printed on large-format pages for clarity. Modern digital versions utilize innovative multi-color designs to reduce clutter and make critical information easier to find.
While the FAA provides free charts in the United States, many pilots opt for paid Jeppesen subscriptions. Here is why: 1. Consistent Formatting and Content
Jeppesen, a bold pilot for Varney Speed Lines (a predecessor to United Airlines), decided to do something radical. He carried a black notebook. Every time he landed at an airport, he jotted down notes: "Power lines 200 yards south of Runway 17," or "Radio tower east of the ridge." jeppesen chart
The point where the final descent to the runway begins, symbolized by a Maltese cross for non-precision approaches or a lightning bolt for precision approaches.
Contains the airport name, ICAO code, approach type (e.g., ILS, RNAV), and primary radio frequencies. These are the "road maps" for instrument flight,
Climb gradients, noise abatement procedures, initial heading instructions, and altitude restrictions to ensure obstacle clearance. 3. Enroute Charts
Although Jeppesen charts are standardized, they have their own unique symbology, which is far more extensive than government-issued charts. To help pilots decode this language, Jeppesen publishes a "Chart Legend" guide. This guide, available as a mobile app or a printed booklet, contains hundreds of symbols, definitions, and abbreviations for every type of chart. An important note for users is that slight variations may exist between the training guides and the current, published chart services, so pilots are encouraged to use them as supplementary training references only. While the FAA provides free charts in the
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The most critical charts, detailing the exact altitudes, headings, and radio frequencies required to line up with and land on a specific runway during poor weather.
: A "bird's eye" view of the approach, showing transitions from the en-route environment to the airport.