FAA Sport Pilot Airplane (SPA)Airspace and NavigationEasy
A pilot planning a cross-country flight downloads a sectional chart for the route. Which statement best describes when the pilot should obtain an updated chart?
- ASectional charts only need replacement when a new airport is built along the route
- BSectional charts are revised every 56 days and should be replaced with the current edition
- CSectional charts are revised annually to match the calendar year
- DSectional charts are valid indefinitely once purchased and never need replacement
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Sectional charts are revised every 56 days and should be replaced with the current edition
FAA sectional charts are updated on a 56-day revision cycle to keep airspace boundaries, frequencies, obstacles, and other data current. Pilots should always use the most current edition for flight planning.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Many types of changes besides new airports occur between revisions.
- C. Revisions occur far more often than annually.
- D. Charts become outdated quickly as airspace and obstruction data change.
Sectional Chart Currency
Sectional aeronautical charts are revised on a 56-day cycle; pilots must use the current edition to ensure accurate airspace, obstruction, and frequency information.
- Revision cycle: every 56 days
- Effective date printed on chart border
- Outdated charts may show incorrect airspace or obstacles
- NOTAMs supplement charts for real-time changes
Memory trick: 56 days keeps your chart from decay