Low Level Air Route

A low-level air route is a published IFR route in low-level controlled airspace — below FL180 in Canada. Low-level air routes (airways) provide structured paths for IFR aircraft between navigation aids, with guaranteed obstacle clearance at or above the MEA.

Navigation on Low-Level Airways

Low-level airways in Canada are typically defined by VOR-to-VOR routes, with intersections marking route changes and reporting points. Modern navigation uses RNAV waypoints to supplement traditional VOR fixes, and many low-level routes can now be flown using GPS with RNAV 2 or RNAV 1 accuracy.

Related Terms

See also: Airway, Low Level Airspace, MEA.