III.

Air Traffic Control Clearances and Procedures

Task B. Holding Procedures

References 14 CFR parts 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-16; AIM
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
Objective
associated with holding procedures solely by reference to instruments.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Elements related to holding procedures, including reporting criteria, appropriate speeds,
IR.III.B.K1 and recommended entry procedures for standard, nonstandard, published, and non-
published holding patterns.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
IR.III.B.R1 Recalculating fuel reserves if assigned an unanticipated EFC time.
Scenarios and circumstances that could result in minimum fuel or the need to declare an
IR.III.B.R2
emergency.
Scenarios that could lead to holding, including deteriorating weather at the planned
IR.III.B.R3
destination.
IR.III.B.R4 Improper holding entry and improper wind correction while holding.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
Explain and use an entry procedure that ensures the airplane remains within the holding
IR.III.B.S1
pattern airspace for a standard, nonstandard, published, or non-published holding pattern.
Change to the holding airspeed appropriate for the altitude or airplane when 3 minutes or
IR.III.B.S2 less from, but prior to arriving at, the holding fix and set appropriate power as needed for
fuel conservation.
IR.III.B.S3 Recognize arrival at the holding fix and promptly initiate entry into the holding pattern.
Maintain airspeed ±10 knots, altitude ±100 feet, selected headings within ±10°, and track a
IR.III.B.S4
selected course, radial, or bearing within ¾-scale deflection of the CDI.
Use proper wind correction procedures to maintain the desired pattern and to arrive over
IR.III.B.S5 the fix as close as possible to a specified time and maintain pattern leg lengths when
specified.
Use an MFD and other graphical navigation displays, if installed, to monitor position in
IR.III.B.S6
relation to the desired flightpath during holding.
Comply with ATC reporting requirements and restrictions associated with the holding
IR.III.B.S7
pattern.
IR.III.B.S8 Demonstrate SRM.

10
IV. Flight by Reference to Instruments

Task B. Recovery from Unusual Flight Attitudes

References 14 CFR part 61; FAA-H-8083-15
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
Objective
associated with recovering from unusual flight attitudes solely by reference to instruments.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
IR.IV.B.K1 Procedures for recovery from unusual flight attitudes.
Unusual flight attitude causal factors, including physiological factors, system and
IR.IV.B.K2
equipment failures, and environmental factors.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
Situations that could lead to loss of control or unusual flight attitudes (e.g., stress, task
IR.IV.B.R1
saturation, and distractions).
IR.IV.B.R2 Failure to recognize an unusual flight attitude and follow the proper recovery procedure.
IR.IV.B.R3 Exceeding the operating envelope during the recovery.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
Use proper instrument cross-check and interpretation to identify an unusual attitude
IR.IV.B.S1 (including both nose-high and nose-low), and apply the appropriate pitch, bank, and power
corrections, in the correct sequence, to return to a stabilized level flight attitude.

12
V. Navigation Systems

Task A. Intercepting and Tracking Navigational Systems and Arcs

14 CFR parts 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-16; AFM; AIM
References Note: The evaluator must reference the manufacturer’s equipment supplement(s) as
necessary for appropriate limitations, procedures, etc.
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
Objective associated with intercepting and tracking navigation aids and arcs solely by reference to
instruments.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Ground-based navigation (orientation, course determination, equipment, tests and
IR.V.A.K1
regulations) including procedures for intercepting and tracking courses and arcs.
Satellite-based navigation (orientation, course determination, equipment, tests and
IR.V.A.K2 regulations, interference, appropriate use of databases, RAIM, and WAAS) including
procedures for intercepting and tracking courses and arcs.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
IR.V.A.R1 Failure to manage automated navigation and autoflight systems.
IR.V.A.R2 Distractions, loss of situational awareness, or improper task management.
IR.V.A.R3 Limitations of the navigation system in use.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
Tune and correctly identify the navigation facility/program the navigation system and verify
IR.V.A.S1
system accuracy as appropriate for the equipment installed in the airplane.
IR.V.A.S2 Determine airplane position relative to the navigational facility or waypoint.
IR.V.A.S3 Set and correctly orient to the course to be intercepted.
Intercept the specified course at appropriate angle, inbound to or outbound from a
IR.V.A.S4
navigational facility or waypoint.
IR.V.A.S5 Maintain airspeed ±10 knots, altitude ±100 feet, and selected headings ±5°.
Apply proper correction to maintain a course, allowing no more than ¾-scale deflection of
IR.V.A.S6
the CDI. If a DME arc is selected, maintain that arc ±1 nautical mile.
Recognize navigational system or facility failure, and when required, report the failure to
IR.V.A.S7
ATC.
Use an MFD and other graphical navigation displays, if installed, to monitor position, track
IR.V.A.S8
wind drift, and to maintain situational awareness.
IR.V.A.S9 Use the autopilot to make appropriate course intercepts, if installed.

13
VI. Instrument Approach Procedures

Task A. Nonprecision Approach

References 14 CFR parts 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-16; IFP, AIM, AC 120-108
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
associated with performing nonprecision approach procedures solely by reference to
Objective instruments.
Note: See Appendix 7: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations
for related considerations.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Procedures and limitations associated with a nonprecision approach, including the
IR.VI.A.K1 differences between Localizer Performance (LP) and Lateral Navigation (LNAV) approach
guidance.
IR.VI.A.K2 Navigation system annunciations expected during an RNAV approach.
IR.VI.A.K3 Ground-based and satellite-based navigation systems used for a nonprecision approach.
IR.VI.A.K4 A stabilized approach, to include energy management concepts.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
IR.VI.A.R1 Failure to follow the correct approach procedure (e.g., descending too early, etc.).
IR.VI.A.R2 Selecting an incorrect navigation frequency.
IR.VI.A.R3 Failure to manage automated navigation and autoflight systems.
IR.VI.A.R4 Failure to ensure proper airplane configuration during an approach and missed approach.
IR.VI.A.R5 An unstable approach, including excessive descent rates.
IR.VI.A.R6 Deteriorating weather conditions on approach.
Operating below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) or continuing a descent below
IR.VI.A.R7
decision altitude (DA) without proper visual references.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
IR.VI.A.S1 Accomplish the nonprecision instrument approaches selected by the evaluator.
Establish two-way communications with ATC appropriate for the phase of flight or
IR.VI.A.S2
approach segment, and use proper communication phraseology.
Select, tune, identify, and confirm the operational status of navigation equipment to be
IR.VI.A.S3
used for the approach.
IR.VI.A.S4 Comply with all clearances issued by ATC or the evaluator.
Recognize if any flight instrumentation is inaccurate or inoperative, and take appropriate
IR.VI.A.S5
action.
IR.VI.A.S6 Advise ATC or the evaluator if unable to comply with a clearance.
IR.VI.A.S7 Complete the appropriate checklist.
Establish the appropriate airplane configuration and airspeed considering meteorological
IR.VI.A.S8
and operating conditions.
Maintain altitude ±100 feet, selected heading ±10°, airspeed ±10 knots, and accurately
IR.VI.A.S9
track radials, courses, and bearings, prior to beginning the final approach segment.
Adjust the published MDA and visibility criteria for the aircraft approach category, as
IR.VI.A.S10 appropriate, for factors that include NOTAMs, inoperative aircraft or navigation equipment,
or inoperative visual aids associated with the landing environment, etc.
IR.VI.A.S11 Establish a stabilized descent to the appropriate altitude.
For the final approach segment, maintain no more than a ¾-scale deflection of the CDI,
IR.VI.A.S12 maintain airspeed ±10 knots, and altitude, if applicable, above MDA, +100/-0 feet, to the
Visual Descent Point (VDP) or Missed Approach Point (MAP).
Execute the missed approach procedure if the required visual references are not distinctly
IR.VI.A.S13 visible and identifiable at the appropriate point or altitude for the approach profile; or
execute a normal landing from a straight-in or circling approach.
Use an MFD and other graphical navigation displays, if installed, to monitor position, track
IR.VI.A.S14
wind drift, and to maintain situational awareness.

15
VI. Instrument Approach Procedures

Task B. Precision Approach

References 14 CFR parts 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-16; IFP; AIM
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
associated with performing precision approach procedures solely by reference to instruments.
Objective
Note: See Appendix 7: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations
for related considerations.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Procedures and limitations associated with a precision approach, including determining
IR.VI.B.K1
required descent rates and adjusting minimums in the case of inoperative equipment.
IR.VI.B.K2 Navigation system displays, annunciations, and modes of operation.
Ground-based and satellite-based navigation (orientation, course determination,
IR.VI.B.K3 equipment, tests and regulations, interference, appropriate use of navigation data, signal
integrity)
IR.VI.B.K4 A stabilized approach, to include energy management concepts
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
Failure to follow the correct approach procedure (e.g. descending below the glideslope,
IR.VI.B.R1
etc.).
IR.VI.B.R2 Selecting an incorrect navigation frequency.
IR.VI.B.R3 Failure to manage automated navigation and autoflight systems.
IR.VI.B.R4 Failure to ensure proper airplane configuration during an approach and missed approach.
IR.VI.B.R5 An unstable approach including excessive descent rates.
IR.VI.B.R6 Deteriorating weather conditions on approach.
Continuing to descend below the Decision Altitude (DA)/Decision Height (DH) when the
IR.VI.B.R7
required visual references are not visible.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
IR.VI.B.S1 Accomplish the precision instrument approach(es) selected by the evaluator.
Establish two-way communications with ATC appropriate for the phase of flight or
IR.VI.B.S2
approach segment, and use proper communication phraseology.
Select, tune, identify, and confirm the operational status of navigation equipment to be
IR.VI.B.S3
used for the approach.
IR.VI.B.S4 Comply with all clearances issued by ATC or the evaluator.
Recognize if any flight instrumentation is inaccurate or inoperative, and take appropriate
IR.VI.B.S5
action.
IR.VI.B.S6 Advise ATC or the evaluator if unable to comply with a clearance.
IR.VI.B.S7 Complete the appropriate checklist.
Establish the appropriate airplane configuration and airspeed considering turbulence and
IR.VI.B.S8
windshear.
Maintain altitude ±100 feet, selected heading ±10°, airspeed ±10 knots, and accurately
IR.VI.B.S9
track radials, courses, and bearings, prior to beginning the final approach segment.
Adjust the published DA/DH and visibility criteria for the aircraft approach category, as
IR.VI.B.S10 appropriate, to account for NOTAMs, Inoperative airplane or navigation equipment, or
inoperative visual aids associated with the landing environment.
Establish a predetermined rate of descent at the point where vertical guidance begins,
IR.VI.B.S11
which approximates that required for the airplane to follow the vertical guidance.
Maintain a stabilized final approach from the Final Approach Fix (FAF) to DA/DH allowing
IR.VI.B.S12 no more than ¾-scale deflection of either the vertical or lateral guidance indications and
maintain the desired airspeed ±10 knots.
Immediately initiate the missed approach procedure when at the DA/DH, and the required
IR.VI.B.S13
visual references for the runway are not unmistakably visible and identifiable.
Transition to a normal landing approach (missed approach for seaplanes) only when the
IR.VI.B.S14 airplane is in a position from which a descent to a landing on the runway can be made at a
normal rate of descent using normal maneuvering.

16
VI. Instrument Approach Procedures

Task B. Precision Approach

Maintain a stabilized visual flight path from the DA/DH to the runway aiming point where a
IR.VI.B.S15
normal landing may be accomplished within the touchdown zone.
Use an MFD and other graphical navigation displays, if installed, to monitor position, track
IR.VI.B.S16
wind drift, and to maintain situational awareness.

17
VI. Instrument Approach Procedures

Task C. Missed Approach

References 14 CFR parts 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-15; IFP; AIM
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
Objective
associated with performing a missed approach procedure solely by reference to instruments.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Elements related to missed approach procedures and limitations associated with standard
IR.VI.C.K1
instrument approaches, including while using an FMS or autopilot, if equipped.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
IR.VI.C.R1 Failure to follow prescribed procedures.
IR.VI.C.R2 Holding, diverting, or electing to fly the approach again.
IR.VI.C.R3 Failure to ensure proper airplane configuration during an approach and missed approach.
Factors that might lead to executing a missed approach procedure before the missed
IR.VI.C.R4
approach point or to a go-around below DA/MDA.
IR.VI.C.R5 Failure to manage automated navigation and autoflight systems.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
IR.VI.C.S1 Promptly initiate the missed approach procedure and report it to ATC.
Apply the appropriate power setting for the flight condition and establish a pitch attitude
IR.VI.C.S2
necessary to obtain the desired performance.
Configure the airplane in accordance with airplane manufacturer’s instructions, establish a
IR.VI.C.S3
positive rate of climb, and accelerate to the appropriate airspeed, ±10 knots.
Follow the recommended checklist items appropriate to the missed approach/go-around
IR.VI.C.S4
procedure.
IR.VI.C.S5 Comply with the published or alternate missed approach procedure.
Advise ATC or the evaluator if unable to comply with a clearance, restriction, or climb
IR.VI.C.S6
gradient.
Maintain the heading, course, or bearing ±10°; and altitude(s) ±100 feet during the missed
IR.VI.C.S7
approach procedure.
Use an MFD and other graphical navigation displays, if installed, to monitor position and
IR.VI.C.S8
track to help navigate the missed approach.
IR.VI.C.S9 Demonstrate SRM or CRM, as appropriate.
Request ATC clearance to attempt another approach, proceed to the alternate airport,
IR.VI.C.S10
holding fix, or other clearance limit, as appropriate, or as directed by the evaluator.

18
VI. Instrument Approach Procedures

Task D. Circling Approach

References 14 CFR parts 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-15; IFP; AIM
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
Objective
associated with performing a circling approach procedure.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Elements related to circling approach procedures and limitations including approach
IR.VI.D.K1
categories and related airspeed restrictions.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
IR.VI.D.R1 Failure to follow prescribed circling approach procedures.
IR.VI.D.R2 Executing a circling approach at night or with marginal visibility.
IR.VI.D.R3 Losing visual contact with an identifiable part of the airport.
IR.VI.D.R4 Failure to manage automated navigation and autoflight systems.
IR.VI.D.R5 Failure to maintain an appropriate altitude, airspeed, or distance while circling.
IR.VI.D.R6 Low altitude maneuvering including stall, spin, or CFIT.
IR.VI.D.R7 Executing an improper missed approach after the MAP while circling.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
Comply with the circling approach procedure considering turbulence, windshear, and the
IR.VI.D.S1
maneuvering capability and approach category of the aircraft.
Confirm the direction of traffic and adhere to all restrictions and instructions issued by ATC
IR.VI.D.S2
or the evaluator.
IR.VI.D.S3 Demonstrate SRM.
Establish the approach and landing configuration. Maintain a stabilized approach and a
IR.VI.D.S4 descent rate that ensures arrival at the MDA, or the preselected circling altitude above the
MDA, prior to the missed approach point.
Maintain airspeed ±10 knots, desired heading/track ±10°, and altitude +100/-0 feet until
IR.VI.D.S5
descending below the MDA or the preselected circling altitude above the MDA.
Visually maneuver to a base or downwind leg appropriate for the landing runway and
IR.VI.D.S6
environmental conditions.
If a missed approach occurs, turn in the appropriate direction using the correct procedure
IR.VI.D.S7
and appropriately configure the airplane.
If landing, initiate a stabilized descent. Touch down on the first one-third of the selected
IR.VI.D.S8 runway without excessive maneuvering, without exceeding the normal operating limits of
the airplane, and without exceeding 30° of bank.

19
VI. Instrument Approach Procedures

Task E. Landing from an Instrument Approach

References 14 CFR parts 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-15; AIM
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
Objective
associated with performing the procedures for a landing from an instrument approach.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Elements related to the pilot’s responsibilities, and the environmental, operational, and
IR.VI.E.K1
meteorological factors that affect landing from a straight-in or circling approach.
IR.VI.E.K2 Airport signs, markings and lighting, to include approach lighting systems.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
IR.VI.E.R1 Attempting to land from an unstable approach.
IR.VI.E.R2 Flying below the glidepath.
IR.VI.E.R3 Transitioning from instrument to visual references for landing.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
Transition at the DA/DH, MDA, or visual descent point (VDP) to a visual flight condition,
IR.VI.E.S1
allowing for safe visual maneuvering and a normal landing.
Adhere to all ATC or evaluator advisories, such as NOTAMs, windshear, wake turbulence,
IR.VI.E.S2
runway surface, braking conditions, and other operational considerations.
IR.VI.E.S3 Complete the appropriate checklist.
IR.VI.E.S4 Maintain positive airplane control throughout the landing maneuver.
IR.VI.E.S5 Demonstrate SRM.

20
VII. Emergency Operations

Task D. Approach with Loss of Primary Flight Instrument Indicators

References 14 CFR parts 61, 91; FAA-H-8083-15; IFP
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
Objective associated with performing an approach solely by reference to instruments with the loss of
primary flight control instruments.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Recognizing if primary flight instruments are inaccurate or inoperative, and advising ATC
IR.VII.D.K1
or the evaluator.
Common failure modes of vacuum and electric attitude instruments and how to correct or
IR.VII.D.K2
minimize the effect of their loss.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
IR.VII.D.R1 Use of secondary flight displays when primary displays have failed.
IR.VII.D.R2 Failure to maintain airplane control.
IR.VII.D.R3 Distractions, loss of situational awareness, or improper task management.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
IR.VII.D.S1 Advise ATC or the evaluator of if unable to comply with a clearance.
Complete a nonprecision instrument approach without the use of the primary flight
IR.VII.D.S2 instruments using the skill elements of the nonprecision approach Task (See Area of
Operation VI, Task A).
IR.VII.D.S3 Demonstrate SRM.

24
VIII. Postflight Procedures

Task A. Checking Instruments and Equipment

References 14 CFR parts 61, 91
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills
Objective
associated with checking flight instruments and equipment during postflight.
Knowledge The applicant demonstrates understanding of:
Procedures for checking the functionality of all installed instruments and navigation
IR.VIII.A.K1
equipment.
Risk
The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:
Management
Failure to perform a proper postflight inspection and properly document airplane
IR.VIII.A.R1
discrepancies.
Skills The applicant demonstrates the ability to:
Conduct a postflight inspection, and document discrepancies and servicing requirements,
IR.VIII.A.S1
if any.

25
Instrument Proficiency Check
14 CFR part 61, section 61.57(d) sets forth the requirements for an instrument proficiency check (IPC). Instructors
and evaluators conducting an IPC must ensure the pilot meets the standards established in this ACS. A
representative number of Tasks must be selected to assure the competence of the applicant to operate in the IFR
environment. As a minimum, the applicant must demonstrate the ability to perform the Tasks listed in the table
below. The person giving the check should develop a scenario that incorporates as many required Tasks as
practical to assess the pilot’s ADM and risk management skills.

Guidance on how to conduct an IPC is found in Advisory Circular 61-98, Currency Requirements and Guidance
for the Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency Check. You may obtain a copy at www.faa.gov.

Area of IPC (Proficiency

Operation Check) 2
I None
II None
III B
IV B
V A
VI All
VII 3 B, C, D
VIII All

2 AATDs can be utilized for the majority of the IPC as specified in the Letter of Authorization issued for the device. However,
the circling approach, the landing Task, and the multiengine airplane Tasks must be accomplished in an aircraft or FFS
(Level B, C, or D). A BATD cannot be used for any part of the IPC.
3 Tasks B and C are applicable only to multiengine airplanes.

A-12