Finding the best instrument flying handbook suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. Instrument Flying Handbook
Description
Complete and essential instrument knowledge is compiled in this pilot-ready reference. Features human factors in instrument flying; an Instrument Rating Training Syllabus; primary and support instruments; flight phases on instruments; instrument navigation; emergency procedures and illustrations; IRF flight planning; IFR flight charts; and more.2. Instrument Combo - Instrument Flying Handbook (8083-15B) & Instrument Procedures Handbook (8083-16A)
Feature
Instrument Flying Handbook (8083-15B) and Instrument Procedures Handbook (8083-16A) packaged together for greater savings.Description
The Instrument Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-15B) is the FAA's primary pilot resource for instrument flight rules (IFR) covering everything pertinent to operating an aircraft in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) or without reference to outside visuals, relying solely on the information gleaned from the cockpit. Readers will find chapters on the national airspace system, the air traffic control system, human factors, aerodynamics, flight instruments, flight maneuvers for IFR operations, navigation, emergency operations, as well as helicopter operations and more. The FAA's Instrument Procedures Handbook (FAA-H-A) is an invaluable resource for instrument-rated pilots. This handbook supersedes FAA-H-, dated 2014. Designed as a technical reference for all pilots who operate under instrument flight rules (IFR) in the National Airspace system (NAS), the Instrument Procedures Handbook expands and updates information contained in the FAA-H-8083-15B, Instrument Flying Handbook, and introduces advanced information for IFR operations. Instrument flight instructors, instrument pilots, and instrument students will also find this handbook a valuable resource since it is used as a reference for the Airline Transport Pilot and Instrument Knowledge Tests and for the Practical Test Standards. It also provides detailed coverage of instrument charts and procedures including IFR takeoff, departure, en route, arrival, approach, and landing. Safety information covering relevant subjects such as runway incursion, land and hold short operations, controlled flight into terrain, and human factors issues also are included.3. Instrument Procedures Handbook: ASA FAA-H-8083-16A (FAA Handbooks series)
Description
This is the new 2015 edition of the FAA's previous "Instrument Procedures Handbook" (previously the FAA-H-8083-16).
In the FAA's "Instrument Procedures Handbook" (#FAA-H-8083-16A) the emphasis is placed on operations and procedural information for real-world use, which makes this the next logical step for pilots after learning basic instrument skills from the FAA's "Instrument Flying Handbook" (#FAA-H-8083-15B). Using this book, pilots can more directly apply the concepts to their current flying situation, and learn how their acquired skills are best used in todays IFR environment. With the increased occurrence of regulatory changes, pilots must be aware of current procedures. This book covers all of the information needed to operate safely within the airspace system.
Updates for the new edition were made to reflect new information as well as current practices and procedures related to Terminal Arrival Areas, RNAV and GPS-based approaches, ILS and parallel ILS approaches, and important concepts and principles related to obstacle avoidance and departure planning, among others. These updates and the reorganization of material should be reviewed by anyone who flies in or will be flying in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).
Considered industry-wide as a top source for instrument procedures information and a must read for all instrument pilots, this new 2015 Edition brings pilots the latest changes to procedures and even more insights and guidance on how to operate safely within the national airspace system. Detailed information is provided for every navigation receiver and phase of flight on the required precision necessary to stay within protected airspace and to make a successful approach.
The Instrument Procedures Handbook was intended primarily as a technical reference for professional pilots. However, with the specialized glossary, index, full-color illustrations and photographs, flight instructors, instrument pilots and instrument students alike will find it a valuable training aid. Each topic covered is well-detailed and explained in user-friendly terms, along with full-color depictions to aid understanding.
Instrument flight instructors, pilots and students will need this resource since it is used as a reference for the Airline Transport Pilot and Instrument Knowledge Tests and for the Practical Test Standards. Detailed coverage of instrument charts and procedures including IFR takeoff, departure, en route, arrival, approach, and landing, safety information such as runway incursion, land and hold short operations, controlled flight into terrain, and human factors issues also are included. Whether a pilot is a seasoned professional or recently completed an Instrument Rating course, this FAA handbook is sure to encourage more precise instrument techniques and ultimately create a safer pilot.
In the FAA's "Instrument Procedures Handbook" (#FAA-H-8083-16A) the emphasis is placed on operations and procedural information for real-world use, which makes this the next logical step for pilots after learning basic instrument skills from the FAA's "Instrument Flying Handbook" (#FAA-H-8083-15B). Using this book, pilots can more directly apply the concepts to their current flying situation, and learn how their acquired skills are best used in todays IFR environment. With the increased occurrence of regulatory changes, pilots must be aware of current procedures. This book covers all of the information needed to operate safely within the airspace system.
Updates for the new edition were made to reflect new information as well as current practices and procedures related to Terminal Arrival Areas, RNAV and GPS-based approaches, ILS and parallel ILS approaches, and important concepts and principles related to obstacle avoidance and departure planning, among others. These updates and the reorganization of material should be reviewed by anyone who flies in or will be flying in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).
Considered industry-wide as a top source for instrument procedures information and a must read for all instrument pilots, this new 2015 Edition brings pilots the latest changes to procedures and even more insights and guidance on how to operate safely within the national airspace system. Detailed information is provided for every navigation receiver and phase of flight on the required precision necessary to stay within protected airspace and to make a successful approach.
The Instrument Procedures Handbook was intended primarily as a technical reference for professional pilots. However, with the specialized glossary, index, full-color illustrations and photographs, flight instructors, instrument pilots and instrument students alike will find it a valuable training aid. Each topic covered is well-detailed and explained in user-friendly terms, along with full-color depictions to aid understanding.
Instrument flight instructors, pilots and students will need this resource since it is used as a reference for the Airline Transport Pilot and Instrument Knowledge Tests and for the Practical Test Standards. Detailed coverage of instrument charts and procedures including IFR takeoff, departure, en route, arrival, approach, and landing, safety information such as runway incursion, land and hold short operations, controlled flight into terrain, and human factors issues also are included. Whether a pilot is a seasoned professional or recently completed an Instrument Rating course, this FAA handbook is sure to encourage more precise instrument techniques and ultimately create a safer pilot.
4. Instrument Flying Handbook: ASA FAA-H-8083-15B
Feature
Instrument Flying HandbookDescription
This is the FAA's primary pilot resource for instrument flight rules (IFR) covering everything pertinent to operating an aircraft in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) or without reference to outside visuals, relying solely on the information gleaned from the cockpit. Readers will find chapters on the national airspace system, the air traffic control system, human factors, aerodynamics, flight instruments, flight maneuvers for IFR operations, navigation, emergency operations, as well as helicopter operations and more.
The material in this manual applies to both conventional "steam-gauge" analog instrumentation and the "glass cockpit" electronic flight displays found in advanced aircraft. Information is well organized into separate coverage of the traditional "6-pack" and discussions of pictorial "tape" displays. Advanced systems are covered, including flight management systems, the primary flight display (PFD) and multi-function display (MFD), synthetic vision, and traffic advisory systems. The book also features a synopsis of instrument clearance shorthand, as well as an instrument training lesson guide.
The Instrument Flying Handbook is designed for use by flight instructors, pilots preparing for the Instrument Rating FAA Knowledge and Practical Exams, and instrument-rated pilots looking for a refresher or preparing for an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC). Illustrated throughout with detailed, full-color drawings and photographs; comprehensive glossary and index.
The material in this manual applies to both conventional "steam-gauge" analog instrumentation and the "glass cockpit" electronic flight displays found in advanced aircraft. Information is well organized into separate coverage of the traditional "6-pack" and discussions of pictorial "tape" displays. Advanced systems are covered, including flight management systems, the primary flight display (PFD) and multi-function display (MFD), synthetic vision, and traffic advisory systems. The book also features a synopsis of instrument clearance shorthand, as well as an instrument training lesson guide.
The Instrument Flying Handbook is designed for use by flight instructors, pilots preparing for the Instrument Rating FAA Knowledge and Practical Exams, and instrument-rated pilots looking for a refresher or preparing for an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC). Illustrated throughout with detailed, full-color drawings and photographs; comprehensive glossary and index.
5. Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge: FAA-H-8083-25B (FAA Handbooks series)
Feature
Updated version of the classic FAA official publicationDescription
This official FAA handbook has been required reading for more than 30 years. Providing basic knowledge essential for all pilots, from beginning students through to the more advanced certificates, this Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) publication introduces readers to the broad spectrum of knowledge required as they progress through pilot training. Studying this book, pilots gain the required knowledge to earn a certificate and understand aerodynamic theory associated with airplane flight. Written for the pilot preparing for a Remote, Sport, Private, Commercial, or Flight Instructor Pilot Certificate, it is a key reference for all the information necessary to operate an aircraft and to pass the FAA Knowledge Exam and Practical Test (checkride).
This invaluable learning tool begins with a basic introduction to flying and a history of flight, then explores the role of the FAA, criteria for earning the various pilot certificates, how to select a flight school and instructor, and the tests associated with earning a pilot certificate. Topics covered include aeronautical decision making, aircraft construction, principles of flight, aerodynamics of flight, flight controls, aircraft systems, flight instruments, flight manuals and other documents, weight and balance, aircraft performance, weather theory, aviation weather services, airport operations, airspace, navigation, and aeromedical factors. Appendices provide additional support including acronyms, abbreviations, and NOTAM contractions, airport signs and markings, a glossary and index.
This invaluable learning tool begins with a basic introduction to flying and a history of flight, then explores the role of the FAA, criteria for earning the various pilot certificates, how to select a flight school and instructor, and the tests associated with earning a pilot certificate. Topics covered include aeronautical decision making, aircraft construction, principles of flight, aerodynamics of flight, flight controls, aircraft systems, flight instruments, flight manuals and other documents, weight and balance, aircraft performance, weather theory, aviation weather services, airport operations, airspace, navigation, and aeromedical factors. Appendices provide additional support including acronyms, abbreviations, and NOTAM contractions, airport signs and markings, a glossary and index.
6. Instrument Pilot Oral Exam Guide: The comprehensive guide to prepare you for the FAA checkride (Oral Exam Guide Series)
Feature
Prepare for Instrument Rating oral examDescription
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) administers oral as well as written exams for pilot certification and flight review. These exam guides teach applicants not only what to expect, but also how to exhibit subject mastery and confidence under the scrutiny of the FAA Examiner. In this series, the most consistent questions asked in each exam are provided in a question-and-answer format, with information sources for further study. Applicants facing the Instrument Rating oral exams will benefit from the topics discussed and the further study materials provided in this Instrument edition, which have been updated to reflect important FAA regulatory and procedural changes, including new or updated "Airman Certification Standards" technical subject areas. Also contains a chapter on the currently hot topic of "scenario-based training" (SBT), written by Arlynn McMahon (author of "Train Like You Fly"). It provides insight into these more-complex questions on how to demonstrate one's grasp of the practical application of flight training. Scenario-based questions are now an integral part of FAA Oral & Practical Exams, and FAA examiners are using them more and more often.7. Max Trescotts GPS and WAAS Instrument Flying Handbook
Description
Most books treat GPS as a subtopic and don't tell everything you need to know about using GPS. But Max Trescott's new GPS and WAAS Instrument Flying Handbook recognizes that GPS is at the center of modern cockpits and not just add-on equipment. If you fly VFR or IFR with a panel-mounted GPS, you're bound to learn something you didn't know from my latest book about GPS, WAAS or operating your GPS receiver. It's a totally new book-NOT a new version of the G1000 book-that tells you what you need to know to safely operate modern GPS systems including detailed, step-by-step instructions for the Bendix/King KLN 94, Garmin GNS 430, 430W, 480, 530, 530W and G900X, G1000 and Perspective glass cockpits.8. Instrument Flying Handbook (Federal Aviation Administration): FAA-H-8083-15B
Feature
Instrument Flying Handbook FAA H 8083 15bDescription
This is the FAA's primary pilot resource for instrument flight rules and training. It covers everything pertinent to operating an aircraft, both in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) and without reference to outside visuals, relying solely on the information gleaned from the cockpit. Information applies to both analog and electronic flight displays, and is organized into separate coverage of the traditional and pictorial displays.
Instrument Flying Handbook includes chapters on national airspace system, the air traffic control system, human factors, aerodynamics, flight instruments, flight maneuvers for IFR operations, navigation, emergency operations, as well as helicopter operations and more. Advanced systems are covered, including flight management systems, the primary flight display (PFD) and multi-function display (MFD), synthetic vision, and traffic advisory systems. Instrument clearance shorthand is discussed, and an instrument training lesson guide is provided.
The Instrument Flying Handbook is designed for use by flight instructors, pilots preparing for the Instrument Rating FAA Knowledge and Practical Exams, and instrument-rated pilots looking for a refresher or preparing for an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC). This edition features with full-color illustrations and diagrams, along with a comprehensive glossary and index.
Instrument Flying Handbook includes chapters on national airspace system, the air traffic control system, human factors, aerodynamics, flight instruments, flight maneuvers for IFR operations, navigation, emergency operations, as well as helicopter operations and more. Advanced systems are covered, including flight management systems, the primary flight display (PFD) and multi-function display (MFD), synthetic vision, and traffic advisory systems. Instrument clearance shorthand is discussed, and an instrument training lesson guide is provided.
The Instrument Flying Handbook is designed for use by flight instructors, pilots preparing for the Instrument Rating FAA Knowledge and Practical Exams, and instrument-rated pilots looking for a refresher or preparing for an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC). This edition features with full-color illustrations and diagrams, along with a comprehensive glossary and index.
9. Airplane Flying Handbook: ASA FAA-H-8083-3B
Feature
FAA's authoritative source on mastering airplane flight operationsDescription
The FAAs Airplane Flying Handbook has been required reading for all pilots for over 40 years, and introduces the basic pilot skills and knowledge essential for piloting airplanes. It benefits student pilots just beginning their aviation endeavors, as well as pilots preparing for additional certificates and ratings or who want to improve their flying proficiency, and flight instructors engaged in teaching pilots of all skill levels.This handbook provides information and guidance on the procedures and maneuvers required for pilot certification. Chapters are dedicated to ground operations, basic flight maneuvers, slow flight, stalls, spins, takeoff and departure climbs, performance and ground reference maneuvers, airport traffic patterns, approaches and landings, flight training basics, transitions to different types of aircraft, emergency procedures, and much more. The latest edition expands and updates the material that has always been a key reference in the FAAs testing and Airman Certification Standards (ACS), and it incorporates new areas of safety concerns and technical information such as loss-of-control upset prevention and recovery training, and transitioning to light sport airplanes (LSA).
The Airplane Flying Handbook is the official FAA source for learning to fly and for many of the test questions in the FAA Knowledge Exams for pilots. Complete with chapter summaries and illustrated throughout with detailed, full-color drawings and photographs, it also includes a glossary and index.