Instrument Flying Handbook

Instrument Flying Handbook is the primary reference text for the Instrument Rating FAA Knowledge Exam and includes hundreds of pages of content. Instrument Flying Handbook is now updated with high resolution graphics and support for retina displays on the iPad and iPhone.

Instrument Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-15B) is designed for use by instrument flight instructors and pilots preparing for instrument rating tests. Instructors find this handbook a valuable training aid as it includes basic reference material for knowledge testing and instrument flight training.


This handbook conforms to pilot training and certification concepts established by the FAA. There are different ways of teaching, as well as performing, flight procedures and maneuvers and many variations in the explanations of aerodynamic theories and principles. This handbook adopts selected methods and concepts for instrument flying. The discussion and explanations reflect the most commonly used practices and principles.

All of the aeronautical knowledge and skills required to operate in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) are detailed. 

Chapters are dedicated to

• National Airspace System (NAS)
• Air traffic control (ATC) system
• Human and aerodynamic factors affecting instrument flight
• Flight instruments, attitude instrument flying for airplanes
• Basic flight maneuvers used in IMC
• Attitude instrument flying for helicopters
• Navigation systems
• Instrument flight rules (IFR) flight procedures
• IFR emergencies
• Clearance shorthand
• An integrated instrument lesson guide