If you’re flying into Dublin, you need to understand the EIDW charts. Here’s what actually matters.
What You’re Looking At
EIDW is the ICAO code for Dublin Airport. The charts cover everything from runway layouts to approach procedures to departure routes.
Aerodrome charts show you the ground layout. Taxiways, runways, parking stands. Critical for not getting lost after landing.
Approach charts are the meat of it. They tell you exactly how to get from cruising altitude to the runway in instrument conditions.
The Approaches
Dublin has ILS approaches – Instrument Landing System with both lateral and vertical guidance. This is what you’ll fly most of the time in bad weather.
VOR and NDB approaches exist as backups. Less precise but available if other systems are down.
Each approach chart gives you the frequencies, altitudes, and course headings. Follow it exactly.
Departure Procedures
Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs) are published routes out of the airport. They keep departing traffic organized and separated.
You’ll get assigned a SID in your clearance. Know it before you push back. Fumbling with charts on the runway isn’t professional.
What Catches People
Altitude restrictions. They’re not suggestions. Busting an altitude because you weren’t paying attention creates problems for everyone.
The step-down fixes on approaches. Each one has a minimum altitude. Don’t descend below it until you pass the fix.
Missed approach procedures. Know where you’re going if the approach doesn’t work out. Plan it before you start descending.
Digital vs Paper
Most pilots use electronic flight bags now. The charts update automatically and you can zoom in on details. But keep paper charts accessible as backup. Screens fail.
Staying Current
Charts change. New procedures, updated frequencies, airspace modifications. Running outdated charts is dangerous and illegal. Make sure yours are current before every flight.
Dublin is busy airspace with lots of commercial traffic. Know your charts, fly them precisely, and you’ll be fine.
