Instrument Procedures Handbook
Instrument procedures
Instrument Procedures Handbook
Detailed guidance on instrument approach procedures, charts, and navigation techniques.
- Publication number
- FAA-H-8083-16B
- Publisher
- Federal Aviation Administration
- Access
- Free official publication
- Best for
- Instrument procedures
Purpose and audience
About this handbook
A procedure-focused FAA reference covering the structure and execution of departures, enroute operations, arrivals, and approaches.
Who should use it
Instrument students, rated pilots, instructors, and aviation professionals studying the IFR system.
Key subjects
What you’ll learn
National Airspace System and IFR services
Departures and enroute procedures
Arrivals and instrument approaches
Charts, navigation, and procedure design
Practical study
How to use it in training
Study it with current charts. Trace complete sample flights from clearance through approach and identify where pilot, controller, and equipment responsibilities change.
- 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
Procedures and charting conventions can change. Always use current charts, NOTAMs, regulations, and FAA publications for operational use.
Directory review date: August 1, 2026
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