Definition
The official publications and digital products that pilots use to obtain current information about airports, including runway data, lighting, services, frequencies, procedures, and special operating considerations. Primary sources include the Chart Supplement (formerly the Airport/Facility Directory), aeronautical charts, Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs), and FAA digital tools such as the Chart Supplement online and aeronautical chart products.
Plain English
The trusted books, charts, and online tools a pilot checks to find accurate, up-to-date details about an airport before flying there.
Context Anchor
Used during preflight planning when checking a departure airport, destination airport, or backup airport.
Why Pilots Care
Using the correct sources ensures pilots have the latest safety and operational information to avoid hazards during flight planning and execution.
Intuition Check
Do not assume this means any website or app that mentions an airport. In this context, it means current, reliable airport information sources used for flight planning and safe operation.
Example Sentence 1
Before departing for an unfamiliar field, the student pilot checked the sources for airport data to confirm the runway length, traffic pattern altitude, and CTAF frequency.
Example Sentence 2
The instructor emphasized checking multiple sources for airport data to verify any temporary changes or NOTAMs.