SID Question

Murdoughnut

Murdoughnut

Well sized member
Admittedly, I haven't flown IFR in a couple of years, and haven't done a SID in many years. I'm preparing for a flight to CHS and was reviewing the departing SIDs when I ran across something I'm completely unfamiliar with.

When it says "Climb on heading 031 to 546..." what exactly is the 546? I see it on the graphical depiction as if it's a waypoint or something, but this is something I don't recall ever seeing in my IR training (a decade and a half ago) or since. Is this a point that shows up via my RNAV capable GPS? Or is it a reference to 546' MSL when I need to make the turn?

Thanks!
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Yup. It’s an altitude. Notice in the graphical display that 546 is depicted as an altitude. Not a WP.
 
As Billy pointed out, that’s an altitude. Field elevation is 46’, +500. Which is happens to be different than the 400’ standard seen in TERPs.

Not sure why 500 instead of 400, but I’m sure someone else will know.
 
As mentioned, the 546 is an altitude. "Climb ... to ###" is pretty standard notation - the numbers without the feet symbol. You see it not only on SIDs, but apprach plates. Choose pretty much any and look at the missed approach instructions.

Possible explanation: It looks like it's a requirement for RNAV departures in order to ensure that there will at least be LNAV capability. The regulatory source document for the departure references "8260.58B PARA 5-1-1.A.(1)." ¶5-1-1 talks about RNAV departures. A.1. says:

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I'm too lazy to look, but I suspect you'll find the same on other RNAV SIDs which begin with a turn rather than a straight ahead climb.

Yes, the 546 will show up in an altitude savvy GPS.

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