Chart Wise: Charlottesville RNAV (GPS)-Y Rwy 21

There’s a lot to know when flying into KCHO.

Jason Blair

Monday, June 24, 2024 at 09:06 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: tccjeremy

[FLYING file photo]

Key Takeaways:

The Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (KCHO) approach features multiple Initial Approach Fixes (IAFs) and requires careful execution of stepdown descents through various waypoints.
Pilots must be aware of higher terrain to the west, mandatory turns along the final approach path, and a significant 14.51-degree offset of the final course from Runway 21.
This is an LP or LNAV approach, meaning it does not provide a WAAS-based glideslope, and pilots should only expect Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) minimums.
The missed approach procedure for this RNAV GPS-based approach directs pilots to a VOR (GVE) hold, which can be navigated using GPS.

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With the nearby Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (KCHO) in Virginia is a great airport entry point for a pilot to access nearby Shenandoah National Park for short hikes or longer stretches of the Appalachian Trail. Or maybe drop in for some great dining, local wine, or shopping. For any visit, this is a commonly used approach.

Here’s a step-by-step look at the approach to Charlottesville-Albermarle Airport (KCHO) in Virginia. [Image: Jeppesen]

This Article First Appeared in FLYING Magazine

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