Understanding the Map

The Map panel (unless otherwise configured) displays all the NOTAMs that the program can decode. It attempts to provide an accurate idea of the extent of each problem but this is not always possible. The figures below illustrate how the program displays the data on the map.

This figure shows a task drawn on the map. The black cross is the home site and, in this case, the task start and finish point. As can be seen, once the task is drawn the proximity of Notams is evident. The selected NOTAM, a flypast and its associated assembly area, conflicts with the intended task and one turnpoint causes the track to pass through the assembly area. Note that the actual shape of the holding area is not fully interpreted however the points are all displayed to allow the user to check the picture against the text. Not also the circle of influence in orange which has been displayed for this NOTAM. We can estimate distance between the task track and conflicts using the ruler at the top left of the screen. At the bottom left of the screen the selected notam is displayed as text. In this case, Class D airspace is also drawn on the map to help with location.

The user can zoom in to the problem area and determine whether a change of turnpoint is advisable.

Turnpoint conflict.