Please be aware that with the SMO VOR being out of service (2/10/15 – 3/14/15) the Mini Route is not available and the Special Flight Rules Area is only available to aircraft with suitable RNAV equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I just navigate visually? No, you are required, as published on the chart, to navigate on the SMO 132 Radial
2. Can I use ForeFlight or other handheld devices? No, even though ForeFlight and other handhelds can accurately show the 132 radial if properly programmed, handheld devices are never allowed by the FAA to be used as the primary means of navigation in the National Airspace System. They may only legally be used as an aid to situational awareness.
3. What does “suitable rnav equipment mean”? For most GA airplanes that would be a certified GPS(Garmin 430 or King GPS, etc) permanently installed in the aircraft and capable of showing the SMO 132 Radial.
4. If I don’t have a certified GPS, what do I do? You must use an alternate route like the Shoreline route.
My best wishes and fly safe!
Gary Reeves, ATP, Master CFI, CFII, MEI
Chief Safety Officer, PilotSafety.org
SMO SANTA MONICA MUNI !SMO 02/015 SMO AIRSPACE SEE FDC 5/1431 LAX VFR MINI ROUTE NOT AVBL 1502101600-1503142359
