When to use VFR guides instead of AIP?
Hello,
I am a student currently working through my PPL. I was reminded of VFR guides on a recent dual cross country flight when my instructor asked if I already had the charts for the airport we were flying to.
My query relates to the appropriate use of these VFR guides (Pooleys one is often recommended to me). When would you use such a VFR guide in place of information from the AIP?
As I understand it, the AIP is the authoritative source of information, also being the most up to date (when also viewed with the relevant circulars etc).
Why would you use a VFR guide in the pre-flight planning process if there is a risk of the information being out of date or simply incorrect to start with? Why not go straight to the source? I see all kinds of ammendments being made to the AIP constantly, whereas the popular VFR guides only seem to be refreshed once a year.
Would greatly appreciate any guidance on this issue.
Thanks,
Odai.