Why AviMap?

In an age of sophisticated computer software, some of which take good care of flight planning many would ask, why AviMap?

AviMap’s main purpose is to provide the pilot with the latest 1 : 1 000 000 aeronautical charts in a single volume. AviMap also provides a wealth of other quick reference information not often found in a single publication. It should be noted that AviMap does not replace flight planning, but assists the pilot in planning and when information is needed in the cockpit. In addition SACAA regulation 91.02.7(1)(h) stipulates that current maps and charts of the area to be flown must be carried on board all aircraft.

Chart Size 1 : 1 000 000

Using current large sized maps is a cumbersome process in cockpits that have limited space. AviMap is easy to use and each page covers 2 degrees by 2 degrees with properly referenced pages and other pertinent flight information. More experienced pilots have indicated a preference for the smaller scale in that more map is reflected per page than in the 1 : 500 000 chart scale.

The Map Pages

Each map page is referenced by degrees to the adjoining page and contains a shaded area common to both pages.

The map pages have been made up from the existing 1: 1 000 000 charts supplied by the Department of Land Affairs, Chief Directorate Surveys and Mapping and the following table reflects the date of the latest editions of each chart. Please note that the aeronautical information shown on these maps may contain discrepancies which can occur when data sets have been adopted from different time periods.

Navigation / Route Planning

Pages 22 and 23 contain a map of South Africa that can be used as a planning map. Example - a flight from Cape Town to George will intersect map pages 66, 67 and 68. The route plan may then be transferred to the required map pages. The Area Flight Information Service (AFIS) sector boudaries are also indicated on this planning map.

Frequency Chart and Airfield Information

While every effort is made to verify the information published, pilots are advised to research their intended destination thoroughly and especially when the destination is an unlicensed aerodome or airport.

The following legend should be noted when referring to this section.
L = Licensed per CAA regulations and standards
U = Unlicensed
UM = Unlicensed Military
UP = Unlicensed Private

Aerial Observation Charts – Major Airfields

These have been compiled to give pilots an area overview of the major airfields as well as contact information, airfield dimensions, elevation and taxiway references. Further information that may be of use to pilots is added in a remarks column.

Flight Planning

This section covers the details required to fill in a flight plan as well as an example of a completed flight plan form. The various Air Traffic Service Stations (briefing offices) contact details are also published in this section. Note that in the near future the number of briefing offices may be reduced to streamline this service. Pilots are referred to SA CAA AIPs ENR 1.10 for detailed flight planning notes.

Nautical Mile Distance Chart

A nautical mile distance chart using the Great Circle Distance method is included in AviMap, which will be useful in determining distance to and from most of the popular airfields in South Africa.

Restricted, Prohibited and Danger Areas

A summary of these areas is published on pages 86 & 87 and is cross-referenced to the AviMap pages on which they appear. This summary also contains the identifying reference, the nature of the restriction, the controlling authority and other pertinent information including special frequencies that may be required during flying operations.

In addition, AviMap includes other sections that are of general use to pilots and are self-explanatory. They include: sunrise / sunset table, conversion tables, transition altitudes, fuel availability, morse code tables and strip codes.

Changes and Updates

Aviation takes place in a dynamic and changing environment and to this end the pilots are advised to consult the SA CAA AIPs and ADs to ensure that they keep abreast of updates regarding all aeronautical information contained in this publication. The publisher will also provide regular updates of airfield information in both AviMap's Short Final and the AviMap Frequency Chart.