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Obtaining Aeronautical Charts

AIM ¶ 9-1-2 — Obtaining Aeronautical Charts

AIM 9-1-2 explains how pilots can purchase current FAA aeronautical charts and publications through approved print providers. Cite-ready summary for checkride prep.

In Plain English

AIM 9-1-2 tells pilots where to buy official FAA aeronautical charts and publications. The FAA itself doesn't sell charts directly to the public anymore — instead, sales are handled through a network of FAA-approved print providers.

To find what's available and who sells it, pilots can use the Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) website, which lists:

  • Available chart products (Sectionals, TACs, IFR Enroute, Terminal Procedures, etc.)
  • Dates of the latest editions so you can confirm currency
  • Authorized agents/print providers where you can purchase

Why this matters operationally: Under 14 CFR 91.103, you're required to be familiar with all available information for your flight. Using current charts is essential for safe navigation, accurate airspace identification, and up-to-date obstacle and frequency data. Knowing where to source charts — and how to verify the latest edition date — helps you avoid the very real hazard of flying with expired data. Note that the AIM is informational guidance, not a regulation, but currency requirements for IFR charts are addressed elsewhere in the FARs.

AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 9-1-2
9-1-2. 9-1-2. Obtaining Aeronautical Charts Public sales of charts and publications are available through a network of FAA approved print providers. A listing of products, dates of latest editions and agents is available on the AIS website at: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/safety_alerts/ .
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1Where can a pilot purchase official FAA aeronautical charts?
Per AIM 9-1-2, public sales of charts and publications are available through a network of FAA-approved print providers, not directly from the FAA.
Q2How can you find a list of current chart products and authorized sellers?
Per AIM 9-1-2, a listing of products, dates of the latest editions, and authorized agents is available on the FAA's Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) website.
Q3Why is it important to check the edition dates listed on the AIS website before buying a chart?
Per AIM 9-1-2, the AIS website publishes the dates of the latest editions so pilots can confirm they are obtaining current charts — critical for ensuring accurate, up-to-date information for flight planning and navigation.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 9
9-1-1
FAA Aeronautical Charts
9-1-3
Safety Alerts and Charting Notices
9-1-4
FAA Charts and Products
9-1-5
FAA Chart Series Overview
9-1-6
Foreign Area Charts
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AIM 9-1-2 — Obtaining Aeronautical Charts