Definition
Differences between what an instrument procedure chart shows and what is actually loaded in the aircraft's navigation database, or differences in how procedure information is presented across published charts, the navigation database, and ATC clearances. These inconsistencies can include variations in waypoint names, fix sequences, altitude or speed restrictions, course values, or procedure depictions.
Plain English
When the printed approach or departure chart does not perfectly match what the aircraft's GPS or FMS shows, or what the controller assigns. The two sources should agree, but sometimes they disagree in small but important ways.
Context Anchor
Seen during instrument preflight planning, procedure briefing, and when comparing an approach chart with the aircraft’s panel navigator or flight planning display.
Derivation
“Charting” comes from “chart,” meaning a map or plotted guide. “Database” means an organized store of data. “Inconsistency” comes from a word meaning “not holding together.” In aviation, the term points to information that should describe the same procedure but does not line up exactly between the chart and the stored data.
Why Pilots Care
Unresolved differences can lead to incorrect waypoint data, altitude errors, or deviation from the intended procedure.
Intuition Check
Do not assume a small mismatch is harmless. Do not assume the navigation database automatically overrides the chart; compare them and resolve the difference before flying the procedure.
Example Sentence 1
During the approach briefing, the crew noticed a charting/database inconsistency in which the FMS showed a crossing altitude 1,000 feet lower than the published chart.
Example Sentence 2
Before departure the crew reviewed the approach plate for any charting/database inconsistencies that could affect the missed approach path.