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Sectional chart scale

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 12 of 22 on Operations / Airport Operations. ACS element UA.V.B.K6a · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhat is the scale of a sectional aeronautical chart?

  1. A1:250,000
  2. B1:500,000
  3. C1:1,000,000
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. 1:500,000

  • A — incorrect A 1:250,000 scale would show about half the distance per inch of a sectional chart; the study guide gives 1:500,000.
  • B — correct The study guide gives the sectional chart scale as 1:500,000, where 1 inch equals 6.86 nautical miles or approximately 8 statute miles.
  • C — incorrect A 1:1,000,000 scale would show twice the distance per inch and far less detail; sectional charts use 1:500,000.

BACKGROUND

The study guide describes sectional charts as the most common charts used by pilots today. They have a scale of 1:500,000, so 1 inch on the chart equals 6.86 nautical miles (NM) or approximately 8 statute miles (SM). This scale allows detailed information to be included, such as airport data, navigational aids, airspace, and topography. Sectional charts are revised semiannually, except for some areas outside the conterminous United States, which are revised annually. A remote pilot uses the chart to obtain information about the areas where operations are planned.

STUDY TIP

Remember the trio together: 1:500,000, 6.86 NM per inch, about 8 SM per inch.

KEY POINTS

  • Sectional chart scale is 1:500,000.
  • 1 inch equals 6.86 NM or about 8 SM.
  • The scale allows detailed airport, airspace, and topographic information.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch11 "Sectional Charts"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.