Sectional chart

Definitions

• Published on a routine basis, these charts are similar to automobile road maps, and provide useful information regarding airspace, reference points, tower frequencies, etc., to a balloon pilot. They are generally not very helpful for navigation, as the scale, 1:500,000, is too small to be of use to the balloon pilot.
• Designed for visual navigation of slow or medium speed aircraft. Topographic information on these charts features the portrayal of relief, and a judicious selection of visual check points for VFR flight. Aeronautical information includes visual and radio aids to navigation, airports, controlled airspace, restricted areas, obstructions and related data.

References

• Balloon Flying Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2024
• Weight-Shift Control Aircraft Flying Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2008