We Go Through the Notes on Terminal Procedures Publications

What are the different types of notes found on an instrument approach chart, and where do I find them?

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at 11:56 AM ET

Verified

Louisville ILS or LOC Runway 17L [Courtesy Jeppesen]

Key Takeaways:

Instrument approach charts (Jeppesen or FAA TPPs) contain various notes providing critical instructions for pilots, ranging from basic commands like missed approach procedures to conditional "fine print" (asterisks) that modify procedures based on specific circumstances.
Special symbols like a "T" in a black triangle (Trouble T) indicate non-standard IFR takeoff minimums/departure procedures, and an "A" in a triangle (Non-standard A) signifies non-standard IFR alternate minimums, with their specific details found in designated sections (e.g., Jeppesen page 10-9, FAA TPP Section L).
Beyond general notes, charts are organized into sections like the plan view (showing obstacles) and profile view (detailing altitudes and glide-slope intercepts), and pilots often use mnemonics such as MARRTHA to ensure all pertinent approach information is reviewed.

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What are the different types of notes found on an instrument approach chart, and where do I find them?

Instrument approach charts, be they Jeppesen or FAA terminal procedures publications (TPPs), contain notes that tell the pilot what to do—such as missed approach instructions—and what not to do, such as “circle to land at night not authorized” by using the designation NA.

The information on both forms of approach charts starts at the top with the name of the approach and the airport it services, then radio frequencies, missed approach instructions, and special notes about this approach.