Definition
An FAA publication, issued in a single volume covering the State of Alaska, that contains detailed information on public-use and military airports, seaplane bases, and heliports, along with communications data, navigation aids, special procedures, and other operational information not shown on aeronautical charts. It is one of the regional Chart Supplement volumes and is updated on a regular publication cycle.
Plain English
A printed and digital book from the FAA that lists every public airport and landing facility in Alaska, with the practical details a pilot needs to use them — runway lengths, radio frequencies, services available, and any local quirks.
Context Anchor
Pilots use it during preflight planning and when checking details for Alaska airports and landing areas shown on aeronautical charts.
Derivation
“Supplement” comes from an older word meaning “to fill up” or “complete.” That fits this use: the Chart Supplement Alaska fills in the detailed information that the chart itself cannot show clearly.
Why Pilots Care
Alaska’s remote airports and unique terrain make accurate, current facility data essential for safe route planning and emergency decision-making.
Intuition Check
Do not assume the Chart Supplement Alaska is itself just another map. It is a reference publication that supports the map by giving the detailed operating information behind the symbols and airport names.
Example Sentence 1
Before departing for Bethel, she checked the Chart Supplement Alaska for the current runway length and CTAF frequency.
Example Sentence 2
The updated Chart Supplement Alaska showed the new frequency for the common traffic advisory at the destination airport.