Instrument Flight Training Techniques Exam

ADVANCE FLYING ACADEMY

Instrument Flight Training Techniques Exam

The Instrument Flight Training Techniques Exam is not a formal FAA-designated test but likely refers to specific evaluations or knowledge areas within the process of becoming an Instrument Flight Instructor (CFII) or during advanced training in instrument flight techniques. Below is an explanation of what might be included in an evaluation or test for Instrument Flight Training Techniques:

1. Purpose

This type of exam would test a pilot's ability to:

Demonstrate advanced Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) techniques.
Teach instrument flying skills to students, including navigation, situational awareness, and compliance with IFR procedures.
Use instructional techniques to explain complex IFR concepts.

This is typically part of the Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII) certification process or advanced proficiency evaluations.

2. Key Areas of Focus

Ground Knowledge

Instrument Procedures:
- Approach types: ILS, RNAV (GPS), VOR, NDB, and visual approaches under IFR.
- Departure and arrival procedures (SIDs and STARs).
- Missed approach procedures.
Navigation Systems:
- VOR, DME, GPS (including WAAS and LPV approaches).
- Interpreting en route and terminal charts.
Weather Knowledge:
- Analyzing weather reports (METARs/TAFs).
- Understanding in-flight weather hazards (e.g., icing, turbulence).
- Using weather resources for IFR decision-making.
Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs):
- Part 91 regulations specific to IFR operations.
- Alternate airport requirements, fuel minimums, and flight plan filing.
Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM):
- Risk management during IFR operations.

Flight Techniques

Aircraft Control:
- Proper use of the instrument scan to maintain situational awareness.
- Mastery of basic attitude instrument flying techniques.
IFR Maneuvers:
- Holding patterns, including entry techniques and time corrections.
- Precision and non-precision approaches.
- Partial-panel operations.
Teaching Skills:
- Explaining instrument maneuvers clearly and concisely.
- Demonstrating techniques like the "Three Ts" (Turn, Time, Twist) or "Five Ts" (Turn, Time, Twist, Throttle, Talk).

3. Practical Evaluation

Oral Examination

The instructor or examiner will assess your ability to teach:
- Approach charts, including how to brief an approach.
- Transitioning from en route to approach segments.
- Real-life scenarios, such as weather deviations or equipment failures.

Flight Check

Typical maneuvers include:
- Setting up and flying a variety of approaches (ILS, RNAV, etc.).
- Responding to simulated emergencies (e.g., radio failure, instrument failure).
- Performing a hold at a fix or waypoint.
- Conducting a missed approach and proper reentry into the system.

4. Preparation Tips

Study Resources:
- Instrument Flying Handbook and Instrument Procedures Handbook.
- Use practical guides for CFII training, such as "Teaching IFR."
Practice Techniques:
- Conduct simulated IFR flights using an aviation training device (ATD) or flight simulator.
- Review real-world scenarios (e.g., ATC re-routes, low visibility conditions).
Teaching Practice:
- Role-play as an instructor with a fellow pilot to practice explaining IFR concepts.
- Use visual aids like approach plates or video tutorials to enhance your explanations.