IFR publication buying help

Frequently Asked Questions

What are FAA IFR publications?

FAA IFR publications are the official charts and books used for flight under instrument flight rules. They include IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts, IFR Enroute High Altitude Charts, and the U.S. Terminal Procedures Publications. Together they cover airways, routing, and the approach, departure, and arrival procedures you fly on an IFR clearance.

What is the difference between IFR enroute low and high altitude charts?

IFR Enroute Low Altitude Charts cover Victor airways and instrument routing below 18,000 feet MSL, which is where most piston and turboprop flying happens. IFR Enroute High Altitude Charts cover the jet route structure at or above 18,000 feet MSL. Choose the series that matches the altitudes you operate, or carry both for mixed flying.

What is in the U.S. Terminal Procedures Publications?

The U.S. Terminal Procedures Publications are bound regional volumes that hold instrument approach procedures along with standard departures and standard arrivals. They cover the conterminous U.S., Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. These are the documents pilots often call approach plates, and they pair with your enroute charts on every IFR flight.

How often are FAA IFR publications updated?

FAA IFR charts and Terminal Procedures follow a regular revision cycle, so new editions publish on a fixed schedule throughout the year. Each product lists the effective date range it is current for. Always confirm the dates before a trip and replace editions as they expire so your charts match what air traffic control is using.

Should I buy single charts or the full bound set?

Buy individual enroute charts and a regional Terminal Procedures volume if you fly mostly in one area, since it keeps cost and weight down. Choose the full bound Terminal Procedures set if you travel nationwide or want every region on hand. Many pilots mix both, keeping single enroute charts current and a wider set for cross-country trips.

Do I still need paper IFR charts if I use an EFB?

Many instrument pilots carry current paper charts as a backup to an electronic flight bag in case a tablet fails, overheats, or loses power. Paper enroute charts and Terminal Procedures are also useful for study and checkride preparation. Check your operation and instructor guidance, then keep a current set on board for redundancy.