Current Issues in the Design and Information Content of Instrument Approach Charts

Abstract

The 1985 FAA Human Factors Research Plan identified chart design as one of the cockpit-related human performance problem areas which should be addressed through human factors research. Instrument Approach Charts, also referred to in this report as Instrument Approach Plates or IAP's, were chosen for initial human factors review over other chart types such as EN Route or Sectional Charts for two primary reasons. First, the IAP's depict the Terminal Arrival and Missed Approach Procedures which occur at low levels with minimal terrain clearance and consequently low tolerance for procedural errors. Secondly, the IAP's often have a high level of procedural and cartographic complexity, making careful human engineering critical.