Database of instrument approaches generated from parsing FAA Approach plates.

As neat as the free FAA CIFP (Coded Instrument Flight Procedures) is, it lack some approaches in the Not_In_CIFP.xlsx (random internet comment said these are ones which the FAA has not certified to meet the ARNIC424 standards).

It also lacks some vital information such as the approach minimums. As per an aeuronautical inquiry, the FAA confirmed the CIFP does not have minimums and said that they do not offer approach minimums for download in any electronic format.

Also, as far as I can tell, the CIFP is not a master information source for approaches either. The master is encoded textually as part of Form 8260-x, e.g Form FAA 8260-3 - ILS Standard Instrument Approach Procedure and are not available to the public.

CIFP and approach plates are likely derived from this. The Form 8260 is a truly cursed thing, you can view one here: https://www.faa.gov/aero_docs/acifp/2015121527331001001-SFO/CA_KSFO_ILS%20OR%20LOC%20RWY%2028LSAC2_A25A_F.PDF (Also present in test_data folder.)

1. Draw just straight lines and rectangles from the PDF. This provides a basic tabular structure.

   

2. Segment the lines/rectangles into different areas based on relative sizes. This includes areas such as the missed approach instructions, runway/airport information, plan view, communication boxes, profile box, minimums etc.

   

3. Extract information from each segmented area such as the minimums.

4. Check for stuff like hold-in-lieu of procedure turns and procedure turn barbs.

   

Run tests with python -m pytest

Avare does geo-referenced plates. Useful for if we end up showing a map.