Definition
A named navigational fix called CHINS, used as a waypoint on a Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR). Like all five-letter intersection names, CHINS is a unique identifier assigned by the FAA to a specific geographic point defined by latitude and longitude, and it serves as a reference for navigation, crossing restrictions, or transition points along a published procedure.
Plain English
CHINS is the name of a specific point in the sky on an arrival route. Pilots fly to it, cross it at a required altitude or speed, or use it as a turn point, just like any other waypoint with a five-letter name.
Context Anchor
Seen on a STAR when reading the planned arrival path toward an airport during instrument flight.
Derivation
“Intersection” comes from roots meaning “to cut between” or “cross.” In aviation, it means a defined point where navigation paths meet or cross. “CHINS” is the assigned five-letter name for that point, not an abbreviation.
Why Pilots Care
Named intersections like CHINS are how controllers and pilots refer to exact points on an arrival. Knowing that CHINS is just a fix on a chart, and reading any altitude or speed restriction printed next to it, is essential for flying the STAR correctly.
Intuition Check
Do not read “intersection” as a road crossing. On an instrument chart, an intersection is a precise named point in the navigation system, usually with no visible marker outside the airplane.
Example Sentence 1
The STAR required us to cross CHINS at or above 11,000 feet.
Example Sentence 2
ATC issued a speed restriction to be met by CHINS Intersection on the arrival.