AIM ¶ 9-1-4 — FAA Charts and Products
AIM 9-1-4 lists FAA charts and products available to pilots: VFR, IFR, planning, supplementary, and digital. Key reference for flight planning prep.
AIM 9-1-4 provides a high-level inventory of the aeronautical charts and products the FAA makes available to pilots. Knowing what's published — and choosing the right product for the flight — is foundational to safe flight planning.
The paragraph groups available products into these categories:
- VFR Navigation Charts — for visual flight operations (e.g., Sectionals, TACs).
- IFR Navigation Charts — for instrument flight operations (e.g., Low/High Enroute, approach plates).
- Planning Charts — broad-scale charts used for trip planning.
- Supplementary Charts and Publications — supporting documents like the Chart Supplement.
- Digital Products — electronic versions of charts and data for EFBs and avionics.
Operationally, this matters because regulations require pilots to have current and appropriate navigation information for the flight. Picking the correct chart family ensures you have the scale, symbology, and procedural data the operation demands. Always verify currency before flight — outdated charts can omit new obstacles, airspace, or procedure changes.
Five FAA-written-style questions. Instant explanations, every answer cites its source — no account needed.
You are flying VFR in Class E airspace at 8,500 feet MSL during the day. What are your minimum visibility and cloud clearance requirements?