What is a 'sectional chart' used for in aviation?

A sectional chart is primarily used for VFR (Visual Flight Rules) navigation, which is crucial for pilots operating below the cloud layer and within visual reference of the ground. This type of chart provides detailed information about topographical features, such as terrain elevations and water bodies, which helps pilots understand the landscape over which they are flying. Additionally, sectional charts display navigational aids, like radio beacons and waypoints, significantly aiding in navigation.

The focus on both topography and navigation aids makes sectional charts an essential tool for visual navigation, ensuring that pilots can safely navigate their flight paths, avoid obstacles, and recognize landmarks. This versatility is particularly important in areas where electronic navigation support may be limited or unavailable.

Other options, while relevant to aspects of aviation, do not align with the primary function of sectional charts. Weather conditions are displayed on different types of charts and reports. Calculating fuel requirements pertains to flight planning but is not done using sectional charts. Aircraft maintenance schedules fall under operational and safety management rather than navigation, thus making these alternatives less suitable compared to the correct focus on VFR navigation and topographical details provided by sectional charts.