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What are FLIPs in Aviation?

Published in Aviation Navigation Publications 3 mins read

In aviation, FLIPs stand for Flight Information Publications and Flight Information Products, which are crucial resources for pilots and aircrews.

FLIPs are sensitive, flight-critical mapping and charting items essential for safe and efficient flight operations. They provide aviators with the necessary geographical and aeronautical information required for navigation, planning, and executing flights in various regions.

What Does FLIP Stand For?

The acronym FLIP precisely refers to:

  • Flight
  • Lnformation
  • Information
  • Products

The Purpose and Importance of FLIPs

FLIPs serve as the backbone of aeronautical navigation and planning. They contain vital data that pilots rely on for every phase of flight, from pre-flight planning to in-flight navigation and landing. Their primary purpose is to provide standardized, accurate, and up-to-date aeronautical information.

  • Navigation: FLIPs provide detailed charts and maps that help pilots determine their position, course, and altitude.
  • Safety: By offering precise information on obstacles, airspace restrictions, and approach procedures, FLIPs enhance flight safety.
  • Compliance: They ensure pilots adhere to established flight rules, procedures, and air traffic control instructions.
  • Efficiency: Accurate data helps pilots plan optimal routes, saving fuel and time.

Production and Distribution of FLIPs

As referenced, FLIPs are produced by a variety of reputable entities to ensure their accuracy and reliability:

  • National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA): A primary producer, NGA is a combat support agency within the U.S. Department of Defense and the intelligence community.
  • Foreign Governments: Various international aviation authorities and government agencies contribute to FLIP production for their respective territories.
  • Commercial Vendors: Specialized private companies also produce and maintain these critical aviation products.

Once produced, these sensitive flight-critical items are carefully distributed. Key distributors include:

  • Defense Distribution Mapping: Responsible for disseminating FLIPs to military users worldwide.
  • Varied Civilian Distributors: Commercial and civilian channels ensure these products reach private pilots, airlines, and other non-military aviation users.

Key Components and Examples of FLIPs

FLIPs encompass a wide range of products, typically categorized by their function and the phase of flight they support. These are all examples of the "mapping and charting type items" referred to in their definition.

FLIP Category Description Common Examples
Planning Documents Global planning guides and supplementary information. General Planning (GP)
Enroute Charts Maps for navigation between airports at various altitudes. High Altitude Enroute Charts, Low Altitude Enroute Charts
Terminal Procedures Detailed charts for approach, departure, and landing at airports. Instrument Approach Plates (IAPs), Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs), Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs)
Area Charts Detailed charts for congested airspace or complex terminal areas. Area Charts
Supplementary Guides Handbooks and notices providing additional critical information. Flight Information Handbook (FIH), Terminal Change Notices (TCN)

These publications are regularly updated to reflect changes in airspace, navigational aids, procedures, and airport information, ensuring pilots always have the most current data at their fingertips.