Instrument Flying Handbook
Instrument flight training
Instrument Flying Handbook
Teaches how to fly using instruments in low visibility conditions and under instrument flight rules.
- Publication number
- FAA-H-8083-15B
- Publisher
- Federal Aviation Administration
- Access
- Free official publication
- Best for
- Instrument flight training
Purpose and audience
About this handbook
A skills-oriented guide to attitude instrument flying, navigation systems, instrument operations, and the human factors of flight without outside visual reference.
Who should use it
Instrument students, instrument-rated pilots, and flight instructors.
Key subjects
What you’ll learn
Flight instruments and scan technique
Attitude instrument flying
Navigation and avionics systems
Instrument weather and human factors
Practical study
How to use it in training
Pair the handbook with simulator or flight lessons. Rehearse instrument interpretation, control-performance relationships, failure recognition, and workload management.
- Set an objective. Choose the chapter or topic that supports the next lesson, task, or operating decision.
- Read actively. Mark definitions, diagrams, limitations, and questions to discuss with an instructor or qualified professional.
- Apply the material. Work a scenario, calculation, briefing, simulator exercise, or supervised practical task.
- Verify current information. Check regulations, official notices, charts, and approved aircraft or equipment documents.
Edition awareness
Revision and authority notes
Use current regulations, procedures, charts, and aircraft avionics documentation. This handbook explains concepts but does not replace current operational sources.
Directory review date: August 1, 2026
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