FAA Instrument Flight Instructor (FII)IFR Procedures and ApproachesEasy
While reviewing an instrument approach procedure chart, a pilot notices a black triangle containing a white 'T' printed in the notes area near the top of the chart. What does this symbol indicate?
- ATerrain in the immediate vicinity requires the use of TAWS during approach
- BThe airport requires a special VFR clearance for all departures
- CThe runway has a displaced threshold that affects landing distance
- DThe airport has nonstandard takeoff minimums and/or a published obstacle departure procedure (ODP) that should be checked before departure
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The airport has nonstandard takeoff minimums and/or a published obstacle departure procedure (ODP) that should be checked before departure
The black triangle with a white 'T' alerts pilots that the airport has nonstandard takeoff minimums, an ODP, or both, and directs them to consult the Takeoff Minimums and (Obstacle) Departure Procedures section of the terminal procedures publication.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. TAWS requirements are not indicated by chart symbology in this manner.
- B. Special VFR has no relationship to this chart symbol.
- C. Displaced thresholds are shown on the airport diagram, not with this symbol.
Obstacle Departure Procedure (ODP)
A published procedure providing obstacle clearance guidance for departures, identified by a black triangle with a white 'T' on approach charts, found in the Takeoff Minimums and (Obstacle) Departure Procedures section.
- Indicates nonstandard takeoff minimums and/or an ODP exists
- May be textual only or depicted graphically
- Not mandatory unless assigned by ATC as part of a clearance, but recommended for obstacle clearance
- Different from a SID, which requires ATC assignment
Memory trick: 'Trouble T' triangle warns: check takeoff minimums before you go