reply to post by TheSparrowSings
See following links for Chart Symbols used on SkyVector
IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) Aeronautical Chart Symbols
ppgs101.com...
en.wikipedia.org...
VFR (Visual Flight Rules) Aeronautical Chart Symbols
www.procockpit.com...
en.wikipedia.org...
I've included VFR links for reference as the only charts that cover the upper air routes will be IFR (Instrument Flight Rules).
Links that explain the Airspace System.
The National Airspace System
www.faa.gov...
www.americanflyers.net...
En Route Operations
www.faa.gov...
SkyVector Link
One way of getting around SkyVector is using the airport codes. These codes are assigned by the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization)
See maps on following link. Map of world regions classified according to the first letter of the ICAO airport code.
International Civil Aviation Organization airport code.
en.wikipedia.org...
ICAO location indicators by state
www.icao.int...
Try the following as an example on SkyVector
Type in KMCI or KSTL in the 'Flight Plan box' and click 'go'
There is a map/chart zoom function in the bottom right of the screen.
KMCI = Kansas City International
KSTL = St Louis International Airport
Then click on 'Enroute H-5' in the upper right of the screen.
You will see the jet routes covering Missouri.
Jet Routes marked J cover 18,000 feet to 45,000 feet
On some aviation charts there will also be Q-Routes along with J-Routes. These also cover 18,000 feet to 45,000 feet.
No matter what airport or location that you go to always click on either the 'Enroute H' or 'World Hi' tabs to see the high altitude routes.
On SkyVector there is also a video tutorial and also a forum.
Video
skyvector.com...
SkyVector forum
skyvector.com...
On ATS poster 'Weedwhacker' no longer contributes but as a professional aviator he went to great lengths to explain high altitude routes, and why
contrails and aircraft routes can be so varied. Sometimes aircraft take the more direct route.
See following 'Weedwhacker' post links and follow them through for info and guidance from the perspective of a professional civilian aviator.
www.abovetopsecret.com...
www.abovetopsecret.com...
www.abovetopsecret.com...
www.abovetopsecret.com...
www.abovetopsecret.com...
www.abovetopsecret.com...
Hope that helps? I'm sure that other posters will correct or add to the info or answer any further questions that you have.