Pilot Briefing: ASI Chart Challenge

Curious about the assorted small magenta flags on VFR sectional and terminal area charts? These represent VFR checkpoints and VFR waypoints, but what exactly is the difference between the two?

A VFR checkpoint (red arrow) has a pronounceable name and can be used in ATC communications. A VFR waypoint collocated with a VFR checkpoint (red circle) can be used in ATC communications and assist with position awareness using navigation equipment. The five-letter identifier beginning with the letters “VP” (as in “VPCOH” in this image) can be entered in a VFR flight plan route section if there will be a course change at that waypoint. However, standalone VFR waypoints—depicted by a four-point star symbol similar to their IFR counterparts—are used only for navigation, not in ATC communications.

It’s a good idea to turn on landing lights to be visible to other aircraft when operating near VFR waypoints.

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