Blog 9: How to Use Sectional Charts and Understand Airspace Classes
- Aalisha Sugur
- Mar 12
- 3 min read
“Reading a sectional chart is like decoding the sky — once you master it, the map becomes your flight path.”— Aalisha, Student Pilot | Princeton Flying School
Introduction: Your VFR Map to the Sky
Sectional charts are essential tools for every VFR pilot. They provide a detailed view of terrain, airspace, airports, radio frequencies, obstructions, and more. Learning to read a sectional chart isn’t just about navigation — it’s about situational awareness, legal compliance, and flight safety.
This blog walks you through the basics of using sectional charts and interpreting U.S. airspace classifications so you can plan and fly safely from day one.
What Is a Sectional Chart?
A sectional aeronautical chart is a 1:500,000 scale map published by the FAA specifically for VFR pilots. It’s updated every 6 months and covers large regions with tremendous detail.
Chart Sources:
FAA VFR Sectional Charts (print and digital)
SkyVector.com – Free online chart viewer
ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot – Electronic chart overlays
Airspace Classes Explained (A–G)
Class A (18,000' MSL to FL600)
IFR only
Requires clearance and instrument rating
Class B (Busiest Airports: LAX, JFK, ATL)
Upside-down wedding cake shape
ATC clearance required
Solid blue lines on sectional
Class C (Mid-size airports: RDU, SAT)
Two-tiered airspace with radar coverage
Must establish 2-way communication
Solid magenta lines
Class D (Small towered airports)
One circular layer typically up to 2,500' AGL
Two-way radio contact required
Dashed blue lines
Class E (Controlled airspace not B/C/D)
Starts at 1,200’ AGL or 700’ AGL depending on magenta shading
Dashed magenta = surface-based Class E
Faded magenta = starts at 700’ AGL
Class G (Uncontrolled Airspace)
Typically surface to 700’ or 1,200’ AGL
No ATC services
How to Identify Airspace on Sectional Charts
Blue solid lines: Class B
Magenta solid lines: Class C
Dashed blue lines: Class D
Dashed magenta lines: Class E to surface
Faded magenta: Class E starts at 700’ AGL
Common Sectional Chart Symbols
Airports: Blue (towered), Magenta (non-towered)
Runway pattern indicators: Right-hand patterns indicated with an “RP” box
VORs and NDBs: Frequency, Morse code identifier
Obstructions: “*” = lighted. Elevation given in MSL and AGL
MOAs and restricted areas: Defined by solid blue hashed boundaries
Special Use Airspace (SUA): Always check the chart legend!
Latitude/Longitude and Grid Reading
Each sectional is divided into 30’ x 30’ grid blocks
Latitude lines run horizontally (N/S), longitude vertically (E/W)
Understanding MEFs (Maximum Elevation Figures)
Located in each sectional grid square, MEFs indicate the highest obstruction + buffer. For example:
MEF 37 = 3,700 feet MSL (not AGL!)
Used for flight altitude planning and obstacle clearance
Measuring Distances and Bearings
Use a plotter or digital tools (ForeFlight)
Measure in nautical miles (NMs) — sectional charts are scaled accordingly
Calculate true course (TC) and correct for wind to get heading
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistaking faded magenta for Class C — it’s Class E
Not recognizing restricted areas or alert areas
Flying under a Class B shelf without altitude awareness
Best Tools for Sectional Study
Final Thoughts: Learn to Read the Sky
Once you master sectional chart reading, you unlock a critical part of flight planning and situational awareness. It’s not just about avoiding controlled airspace — it’s about knowing what lies ahead before you're in the air. Learn the language of the chart, and you’ll never be lost in the sky.
🛩️ Navigate confidently,
Aalisha
Student Pilot | Drone Certified
Future PPL | Aviation Blogger