Which map is preferred for en-route planning on long-range terrain flight missions?

For long-range terrain flight missions, the 1:250,000 Joint Operational Graphic (JOG) Map is preferred for en-route planning because it strikes an effective balance between detail and coverage area. At this scale, the map provides sufficient detail to identify important topographical features, terrain elevations, and potential hazards without overwhelming the user with excessive information.

The 1:250,000 scale allows for a comprehensive overview of larger areas, which is beneficial for long-range navigation and planning where pilots need to understand the terrain over greater distances. It facilitates better situational awareness during flight by showing crucial geographic features that assist in route selection and safety.

While the 1:50,000 military map offers a high level of detail, it is more suited for tactical operations over smaller, confined areas due to its more localized nature. Conversely, the 1:100,000 and 1:500,000 maps provide less detail and may not convey sufficient information necessary for careful route planning during longer missions. The 1:100,000, while a step down in scale, could be overly detailed for extensive routes where broader views of the terrain are beneficial. The 1:500,000 aeronautical chart, on the other hand, may