Flight Training Lesson Plans
Structured curriculum for every stage of your aviation journey - from young aviators to professional IFR training
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Professional Curriculum by Training Category
Instrument Rating Lessons
Advanced IFR training for licensed pilots
Objectives
- Master holding pattern entries: direct, teardrop, parallel
- Refine understanding of VOR radial tracking in hold and approach contexts
- Practice non-precision VOR approaches using real-world procedures
- Understand and apply concepts of IAF vs vectors to final
- Use manual and autopilot modes to execute IFR approaches
Pilot Preparation (Homework and Study Resources)
- FAA-H-8083-15B (Instrument Flying Handbook):
- Chapter 10: Holding Patterns
- Chapter 4: Instrument Approaches
- FAA-H-8083-16B (Instrument Procedures Handbook):
- Section: Holding Pattern Entries
- Section: Approach Segment Structure
- Optional: Briefing Format Techniques
- Aviator.NYC YouTube Videos:
- Everything Explained for the Professional Pilot: Holds, Instrument Approaches intro, Non-Precision Approaches, Take-off and Alternates
- Documents to Review:
- Pilot Cafe Quick Review - Holds Section
- Instrument Flight Maneuvers PDF (Pattern A, S1, Teardrop)
- Practice: File an IFR flight plan (e.g. KMMU to KABE) using ForeFlight. Voice Record approach briefings using FAA/Jeppesen charts - focus on format and confidence.
Review from Lesson 2
- VOR fundamentals: radials, bearing pointers, TO/FROM logic
- Autopilot operation
- Approach loading and briefing
- Automation modes: HDG, NAV, FLCH, VS
- Pattern A, Vertical S1, and Teardrop maneuvers, as needed
Briefing Topics (Covered in Simulator Briefing Room)
- IFR Flight Plan KACK → KPVD: route planning as needed
- Approach Briefing:
- VOR 24 KACK - loading, Different IAFs, review missed flow
- VOR 6 KMVY - no procedure turn due to radar vectoring
- Approach Configuration
- Flying a VOR approach with the CDI on GPS and OBS 1 on NAV 1 and OBS 2 on GPS
- IAF vs Vector: Definitions, Loading techniques in G1000. IAF vs Vectors Video
Simulator Flight Segment
- Start Location: Runway at KACK
- Clearance Review: Full IFR clearance with ATC or instructor if needed
Sample IFR Clearance: "November 12345, cleared to Providence airport via GRABE, Victor 374, Providence, direct. Climb and maintain 4,000. Departure frequency 126.1. Squawk [assigned]."
Filed Route: KACK GRABE V374 PVD KPVD | Altitude: 4,000 | Distance: 68 nm | ETE: 0:32
Post-Flight Review and Takeaways
- Which hold entries worked best?
- Radial tracking and approach timing issues
- Configuration: flaps, power, AP usage
- Clarify how to distinguish IAFs vs ATC vectors
Additional Resources
- Everything Explained - Sections on non-precision approaches, missed, alternate mins
- IAF vs Vectors and Approach Activation Video
- KFRG to KHPN scenario prep:
- Filed Route: KFRG DPK V16 HAAYS KHPN | Altitude: 4,000 | Distance: 38 nm | ETE: 0:18
Next Lesson Preview (Lesson 4)
- Non-Precision Approaches and Missed Procedures
- Continue holds with timing, wind correction, and DME
- Review: IFH approach segments, descent planning, alternate mins
- Read: IPH 4-37 to 4-42 - Glidepath, Missed, IAP Brief
- Watch the video flying KUAO LOC 17
Resources
- Instrument Holds in G1000 | Two Methods
- IAF vs. Vectors + Vector-to-Final
- Jeppesen FMS Verification
- Common Briefing Mistakes
- Everything Explained for the Professional Pilot
- Pilot Cafe Quick Review - Holds Section
- Approach Configuration
- Everything Explained - Sections on non-precision approaches, missed, alternate mins
- Watch the video flying KUAO LOC 17
These lesson plans are a work in progress and are provided as supplementary training guidance only. They do not supersede FAA publications, aircraft manufacturer documentation, or your instructor's direction. Always refer to the FAA Instrument Flying Handbook, Airplane Flying Handbook, AIM, and applicable POH/AFM as the official sources.