How are Military Training Routes (MTRs) identified on sectional charts?

Military Training Routes (MTRs) are identified on sectional charts by a specific system that denotes whether the route is used under Instrument Flight Rules (IR) or Visual Flight Rules (VR). This classification is crucial for pilots and air traffic control as it indicates the type of navigation rule applicable to the route and helps in understanding the operational parameters associated with each route type.

IR routes are typically used for military flight training conducted under instrument conditions, while VR routes are designated for maneuvers that can be performed under visual conditions. The clear distinction between these routes allows for better situational awareness and enhances safety in the National Airspace System, ensuring that civilian air traffic can avoid areas where military training operations may be ongoing.

While sectional charts do utilize symbols and words to provide various types of information, MTRs are primarily categorized by their IFR (IR) and VFR (VR) designations to directly convey their operational rule set. Therefore, this classification system is what makes the routes easily identifiable and understandable to both civilian and military pilots navigating the airspace.