Format: PDF (FAA) — Effective June 12, 2025: Free Download
 
The Aeronautical Chart Users’ Guide is the FAA’s official reference for decoding U.S. aeronautical chart symbology. If you're ever puzzled by a mystery symbol on a sectional, TAC, IFR enroute chart, or terminal procedures depiction, this guide is your go-to breakdown. It explains chart elements in plain English with clear visuals tailored for both student pilots and seasoned aviators.
As of June 12, 2025, the guide’s latest edition remains current until revised, though future updates will be released only as-needed and no longer follow the regular AIRAC (56-day) cycle.
 
Why download it?
FAA’s comprehensive legend for chart symbols and conventions
Covers VFR, IFR, TAC, flyway planning, and approach chart symbology
Highly illustrated with real-world examples—ideal for visual learners
Still available and maintained, even as update cadence shifts