This document defines the minimum user requirements applicable to the origination and publication of terrain and obstacle data from creation through the entire life cycle of the data. It provides guidance for data gathering by data originators, for data processing by data integrators, for implementation by system designers, and for end use by the aviation community (e.g., air carriers, air traffic services, procedure designers). It is supplemental to the data processing requirements included in RTCA DO-200A and the exchange of data included in RTCA DO-291B.

It provides a minimum list of attributes associated with the terrain and obstacle data and a description of associated errors that may need to be addressed. Four areas of applicability have been defined: Area 1 - The State; Area 2 - The Terminal Area (vicinity of aerodrome), Area 3 - Aerodrome Movement Area, and Area 4 - the CAT II or III Operation Area. The requirements for accuracy, integrity and resolution have been tailored to meet these needs. Guidance for certification or approval of systems or procedures that use terrain and obstacle databases is also provided. The requirements stated in this document address the areas viewed by industry to be of most importance to certification.