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• Total distance—obtained by measuring the length of the TC line on the chart (using the scale at the bottom of the chart) • GS—obtained by measuring the length of the TC line on the wind triangle (using the scale employed for drawing the diagram) • Estimated time en route (ETE)—total distance divided by GS • Fuel rate—predetermined gallons per hour used at cruising speed NOTE: Additional fuel for adequate reserve should be added as a safety measure. Flight Planning Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 91 states, in part, that before beginning a flight, the pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft shall become familiar with all available information concerning that flight. For flights not in the vicinity of an airport, this must include information on available current weather reports and forecasts, fuel requirements, alternatives available if the planned flight Figure 16-24. Chart Supplement U.S. (formerly Airport/Facility cannot be completed, and any known traffic delays of which Directory). the PIC has been advised by ATC. decide on refueling stops), FSS located on the airport, control Assembling Necessary Material tower and ground control frequencies, traffic information, The pilot should collect the necessary material well before remarks, and other pertinent information. The NOTAMs, beginning the flight. An appropriate current sectional chart issued every 28 days, should be checked for additional and charts for areas adjoining the flight route should be among information on hazardous conditions or changes that have this material if the route of flight is near the border of a chart. been made since issuance of the Chart Supplement U.S. Additional equipment should include a flight computer or The sectional chart bulletin subsection should be checked for electronic calculator, plotter, and any other item appropriate major changes that have occurred since the last publication date to the particular flight. For example, if a night flight is to of each sectional chart being used. Remember, the chart may be undertaken, carry a flashlight; if a flight is over desert be up to 6 months old. The effective date of the chart appears country, carry a supply of water and other necessities. at the top of the front of the chart. The Chart Supplement U.S. generally has the latest information pertaining to such matters Weather Check and should be used in preference to the information on the It is wise to check the weather before continuing with other back of the chart, if there are differences. aspects of flight planning to see, first of all, if the flight is feasible and, if it is, which route is best. Chapter 12, “Aviation Airplane Flight Manual or Pilot’s Operating Weather Services,” discusses obtaining a weather briefing. Handbook (AFM/POH) The Aircraft Flight Manual or Pilot’s Operating Handbook Use of Chart Supplement U.S. (formerly Airport/ (AFM/POH) should be checked to determine the proper Facility Directory) loading of the aircraft (weight and balance data). The weight Study available information about each airport at which a of the usable fuel and drainable oil aboard must be known. landing is intended. This should include a study of the Notices Also, check the weight of the passengers, the weight of all to Airmen (NOTAMs) and the Chart Supplement U.S. baggage to be carried, and the empty weight of the aircraft to (formerly Airport/Facility Directory). [Figure 16-24] This be sure that the total weight does not exceed the maximum includes location, elevation, runway and lighting facilities, allowable weight. The distribution of the load must be known available services, availability of aeronautical advisory to tell if the resulting center of gravity (CG) is within limits. station frequency (UNICOM), types of fuel available (use to 16-17