FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Study Guide: Sectional Charts

Overview

• Comprehensive guide to understanding sectional charts for the Part 107 exam.
• Examples taken from the Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement.
• Video aims to prepare you for sectional chart questions on the exam.
• Having the Testing Supplement during study is crucial.

Learning Sectional Charts in Sections

1. Class of Airspace
2. Airports and Restricted Areas
3. Altitudes and Vertical Limits
4. Chart Symbols and Instructions

Class of Airspace

• Nalk International Airport: Demonstrates Class C airspace with multiple layers.
• Three-Dimensional Understanding: Importance of visualizing airspace in 3D.
• Class D Airspace: Indicated by dashed blue lines within Class C airspace.
• Military Bases: Awareness of military airspaces such as Norfolk Naval Station.

Airports and Restricted Areas

• Airport Colors: Blue indicates a control tower, magenta indicates no control tower.
• Restricted Areas: R-6606 for military operations near Oceana; entry requires ATC clearance.
• International Waters: Restricted areas extend only 3 nautical miles offshore.

Altitude and Vertical Limits

• Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF): Highest elevation in a quadrant (30x30 minutes).
  • Calculated by adding 100 feet to the highest natural/man-made structure and rounding up.

Chart Symbols

• Compass Rose: Used for VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR) navigation.
• Information Blocks: Pay attention to details like CGAS (Coast Guard Air Station) and tower frequencies.
• Fuel Services: Indicated by tick marks around airport symbols.

Understanding MOAs and Restricted Areas

• MOAs: Military Operations Areas used for training.
• Restricted Areas: Need prior authorization to enter; hazardous activities.

Advanced Airspace Understanding

• Class G vs. E Airspace: Class G starts at the surface (uncontrolled); Class E is controlled but less intensive.
• Determining Airspace with Altitude: Using tower heights and 400 ft rule to determine operating airspace.
• Conversion of AGL to MSL: Important for understanding vertical limits and airspace classifications.

Practical Study Tips

• Muscle Memory: Practice flipping through the testing supplement pages.
• Legend Reference: Use the legend to understand symbols and airspace classifications.

Important Reminders

• Restricted and Warning Areas: Know the difference and implications for drone pilots.
• Continuous Learning: Keep studying sectional charts and practicing with real examples.

Conclusion

• This guide aims to prepare you thoroughly for the Part 107 exam regarding sectional charts.
• Be detail-oriented and understand the application of each chart element.
• Continually practice and review to ensure comprehension and readiness for the exam.