Route Entry

CHAPTER FIVE

T-6A NAVIGATION

Below 10,000 feet MSL:

V isibility

3 statute miles

B elow

500 feet

A bove

1000 feet

H orizontal 2000 feet

If VMC is not attainable by your requested altitude, request further descent to as low as the

controller's Minimum Vectoring Altitude (as low as ATC can take you IFR). This will probably

require you to request an IFR clearance beyond your clearance limit (normally TRADR, or as

defined in your stereo route or departure clearance). Pick another point beyond TRADR

(typically RAZLE, BRATT, AXSIS, or as required). The voice communication procedures are:

"AGENCY, CALL SIGN, request descent to (an altitude below the cloud layer (if you know

where that is)) or Minimum Vectoring Altitude." Then, if required, "AGENCY, CALL SIGN,

request clearance to ________ (which will become your new clearance limit)." After

acknowledging instructions, descend to the assigned altitude and/or continue to your new

clearance limit, as appropriate. Upon reaching VMC during your descent, cancel IFR as

described above.

Route Entry

Once VFR, immediately take charge of the situation and set up to enter the low-level route. At a

minimum, accomplish the following items:

1. A HATT brief after cancellation of IFR,

2. Call FSS (station and frequency listed on VFR sectional) to get weather, altimeter, and winds

for your area, and

3. Ensure checklists are complete. The applicable items of the Descent Checklist shall be

completed prior to low-level entry. This checklist is also required prior to any approaches IAW

the INAV FTI.

There are two approved methods to enter the low-level route: Direct and Outbound Parallel.

Direct Entry. Visually extend the course line outward from the entry point to establish a point

3 NM (1 minute) prior. Maneuver to cross that point on course, on airspeed, and on altitude. If

necessary, make course corrections (such as the BDHI explained later) inbound to the entry point.

Outbound Parallel. Fly abeam the entry point at a distance approximately equal to one standard

rate turn diameter (approximately 4-5 NM) and fly the reciprocal of the first course for one

minute outbound and then turn inbound. At the completion of the turn, the aircraft should be on

course and 1 minute prior to the entry point. Make course adjustments as necessary. It is

recommended, during the outbound portion of this maneuver, to maintain 500 feet above the

entry altitude with a descent initiated on the inbound turn. Be vigilant for other aircraft

attempting to enter the route at the same time--clear over the radio and give yourself altitude

separation as needed.

5-4

FLIGHT PROCEDURES