8.9. Route Planning

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8.9.1. Training sorties are typically flown on airways. GPS routing may also be used.

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8.9.2. Determine cruising altitude based on leg length. As a guide, use 10 percent of the distance for cruise altitude in the low structure (e.g., cruise at 15,000 feet MSL on a 150 NM leg) and 10% of the distance plus 5,000’ in the high structure (e.g., cruise at FL 280 on a 230 NM leg).

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8.9.3. Authorized computer flight planning software/applications (CFP) can aid the planning process; however, IAW AFMAN 11-202, Volume 3, AETC Supplement, aircrews are still required to remain knowledgeable of manual mission planning procedures. In all cases, check for reasonability and accuracy before flight, as bad input can lead to bad output. A suggested technique is to confirm the CFP fuel used with T.O. 1T-6A-1CL-1 Tab Data.

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8.9.4. The AF Form 70 is an approved flight log according to AFMAN 11-202V3_AETCSUP. Use of all columns on the AF Form 70 can help ensure accurate time and fuel planning. Exact methodology for use of the AF Form 70 is technique. Figure 8.1 shows a typical IFR leg from JBSA-Randolph, TX to San Angelo, TX. Other flight/fuel planning logs may be used, to check for reasonability and accuracy, but must be approved for official use.

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8.9.5. AF Form 70 assumptions include:

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8.9.5.1. As a starting point, use 50 pounds for start, taxi, and takeoff (STTO).

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8.9.5.2. Use a double-entry climb calculation if field elevation is more than 5,000 feet MSL.

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8.9.5.3. Average TAS has a negligible effect on climb calculations.

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8.9.5.4. Level-off distance approximately equals level off altitude (up to FL 250).

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8.9.5.5. Use approximately 15 minutes and 100 pounds for initial penetration and approach.

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8.9.5.6. Use approximately 50 pounds and 10 minutes for subsequent approaches if being vectored to final.

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8.9.5.7. Track frequencies, NAVAIDs, and clearances in appropriate blocks.

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8.9.6. Review the approach plate to determine takeoff restrictions (e.g., departure procedure (Trouble T), SID, etc.). Plan to use preferred routings, if applicable, to avoid significant route changes when issued the clearance.

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8.9.7. Review planned approaches during preflight planning.

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8.9.8. If required, choose an alternate; use the same factors as when choosing a primary location and follow guidance in the AFMAN 11-202V3.

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