Instrument Flying Handbook (2025): FAA-H-8083-15B

by Federal Aviation Administration

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.

Genres: Aviation, Reference

392 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1980

Reviews

[Andrea Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fairly concise and mostly understandable

[Zenaida · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hate how you cannot just have this, but also the IPH and then even so that’s STILL NOT ENOUGH!! Even with the electronic version where I had ctrl+F I couldn’t find half the shit I needed for grounds or, god forbid, my written and checkride. Jesus Christ just SHOW ME THE ASSIGNED CLIMB GRADIENTS BY ALTITUDE!! STOP MAKING ME JUMP THROUGH HOOPS FAA!!!

[Nicholas Kokolakis · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great refresher on approach plates
and effective ways to preform the control and performance concept of flying. Very rudimentary, but a great rebaseline.

[Scott Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between this and the Instrument Flying Handbook, everything you need to pass the FAA's Instrument written exam. Could be usefully supplemented with, say, the Jeppesen book, which has many useful graphics, but a good basic resource.

[Julia Raker]

Been in the depths…

[Eileen Piasecki-Couch]

informative but i had to read it