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
10 Lessons
Objectives
- Establish foundational knowledge in instrument flying and IFR procedures
- Practice partial and full-panel attitude flying using G1000
- Learn route planning, IFR chart organization, and simulator setup for an IFR flight
- Intro to ATC clearances, SID charts, and radio communication basics
Pilot Preparation (Homework and Study Resources)
- Plan an IFR flight from KFRG to KBED using ForeFlight:
- Practice route planning, weather briefing, and chart organization as if you were the PIC
- ForeFlight Charts Tutorial
- Watch G1000 tutorial: How to load and activate an IFR flight plan
- Download and review Instrument Rating Study Material:
- Save to iPad for offline access during sim
- Aviator.nyc Instrument Rating Files
Lesson 1: Cockpit Setup and IFR Introduction Videos
- PFD Setup For Instrument Training Flight
- Setting Your Flight Director: Heading Assignment Before Takeoff
- Loading Flight Plan | Garmin G1000 NXi
- IFR Radio Communication Setup | Flight Training New Jersey
- Stop Writing "CRAFT" on Every IFR Clearance - Here's Why!
- How to organize your charts in ForeFlight | KFRG-KBED Example
Assigned Reading
Read Instrument Flying Handbook:
- Chapter 6, Section II Airplane Attitude Instrument Flying Using an Electronic Flight Display
- Chapter 7, Section II Airplane Basic Flight Maneuvers Using an Electronic Flight Display
- Source: FAA-H-8083-15B
FAA-H-8083-16B Homework for Lesson 1
- Chapter 1 - Departure Procedures
- Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs): Pages 1-26 to 1-28
- Radar Departures and Diverse Vector Areas: Pages 1-38 to 1-42
- Chapter 4 - Instrument Approach Procedures
- Navigation and Communication Radios (p. 4-35)
- Flight Management System (FMS) and Autopilot Modes (p. 4-35 to 4-36)
- Instrument Approach Segments and Briefing (p. 4-42)
- Chapter 6 - Arrival Procedures (Optional Preview): Preview STARs sequencing
Watch (Sporty's Video): "Primary Flight Display (PFD)" and "Attitude and Heading Reference"
Briefing (Instructor-Led Topics)
- IFR Pre-Flight Planning: KFRG → KBED flight brief, Weather briefing, Organizing charts on EFB, Create Folder on ForeFlight for your IFR Training with manuals and PDFs
- IFR Clearance Procedures: Practice full readback of clearance, Setup Comm1/Comm2 and ATIS. IFR Clearance Audio + Comm Setup
Sample IFR Clearance: "November 12345, cleared to Hanscom Field airport via MERIT, Victor 16, BOSOX, direct. Climb and maintain 6,000. Departure frequency 128.125. Squawk [assigned]."
Filed Route: KFRG MERIT V16 BOSOX KBED | Altitude: 6,000 | Distance: 152 nm | ETE: 1:08
Flight (Simulator Focus)
- Attitude Flying with Partial Panel: 10/5 deg climbs, level flight with config changes, 20 deg banked turns just with Attitude indicator (all other instruments off)
- Attitude Indicator stays ON - Emphasize on Trim management: Airplane must be trimmed during flight
- Introduce Altimeter only: Practice Climb and Descent with turns
- Introduce Heading only: Practice turns with heading indicator and climbs (all other instruments off)
- Transition to Full Panel: All six instruments, Pattern A, Vertical S, S-1 maneuvers. Instrument Flight Maneuvers PDF
Post-Brief and Additional Resources
- Review: Scan technique and G1000 effectiveness, Trim and control management in maneuvers
Coming Up in Future Lessons
- VOR navigation and IFR cross-country planning
- VOR radial tracking and TO/FROM logic
- Holding entries: direct, teardrop, parallel
- Flight planning from KMMU to KABE
Homework
- Read: IFH Ch. 9: Navigation Systems (Pages 251-258), IPH 4-35 to 4-37: FMS, Autopilot Modes, and Descents
- Watch on Sporty's: Using Autopilot with G1000, VOR Navigation, Holding Procedures: Entry Types and Timing
- Review: IFR Maneuvers PDF: Teardrop Entries, 80/260, Video: IAF vs. Vectors and Approach Activation
Resources
- ▶ ForeFlight Charts Tutorial
- ▶ Loading Flight Plan | Garmin G1000 NXi
- → Aviator.nyc Instrument Rating Files
- ▶ PFD Setup For Instrument Training Flight
- ▶ Setting Your Flight Director: Heading Assignment Before Takeoff
- ▶ IFR Radio Communication Setup | Flight Training New Jersey
- ▶ Stop Writing "CRAFT" on Every IFR Clearance - Here's Why!
- 📄 Source: FAA-H-8083-15B
- ▶ IFR Clearance Audio + Comm Setup
- → Instrument Flight Maneuvers PDF
Objectives
- Develop understanding of VOR navigation: radials, bearings, and TO/FROM logic
- Create and brief an IFR cross-country flight plan (KMMU → KABE)
- Introduce holding patterns and entry types
- Practice advanced maneuvers: Pattern A, Vertical S1, Teardrop
- Introduce automation: Flight Director, AFCS, FLCH, VS, and Autopilot basics
Pilot Preparation (Homework and Study Resources)
Our Videos: Holding, Autopilot, and Initial VOR Approaches
- Loading and Checking the VOR24 into Nantucket using Garmin G1000
- Instrument Holds in Garmin G1000 | Two Methods
- PFD Setup For Instrument Training Flight
- Setting Your Flight Director: Heading Assignment Before Takeoff
- Loading Flight Plan | Garmin G1000 NXi
- Check NOTAMs Before Flying Instrument Procedure
- FAA Chart Briefing Guide
- Jeppesen Chart Briefing Tutorial
Homework Assignment
From FAA-H-8083-15B (Instrument Flying Handbook):
- Chapter 5: Autopilot Systems (Pages 5-25 to 5-26)
- Chapter 7: Flight Maneuvers Using EFD (Pages 7-33 to 7-39)
From FAA-H-8083-16B (Instrument Procedures Handbook):
- Section 4-36: Autopilot Modes
- Section 4-35: Flight Management Systems (FMS)
- Optional: Sections 4-23 to 4-31 - VNAV logic and WAAS
From Sporty's Instrument Rating Video Series:
- "Autopilot and Flight Director Systems"
- "VOR Navigation Basics"
- "Holding Procedures: Entry Types and Timing"
Approach Briefing Practice: Use FAA or Jeppesen charts and brief the VOR 24 into KACK
Review: IFR Maneuvers PDF: Teardrop Entries, 80/260. Video: IAF vs. Vectors and Approach Activation
Briefing Topics
- IFR flight plan KMMU → KABE
- VOR Navigation: Radials vs Bearings, TO/FROM, CDI vs Bearing Pointers
- Holding Procedures: Components, Entry Types
- Instrument Approaches: Briefing, FAA vs Jepp Logic
Simulator Flight Segment
- Start Location: KMMU Signature FBO
- Setup: ATIS, Clearance, Load G1000 route
Sample IFR Clearance: "November 12345, cleared to Lehigh Valley International airport via Victor 3, Stillwater, direct. Climb and maintain 5,000. Departure frequency 127.6. Squawk [assigned]."
Filed Route: KMMU V3 STW KABE | Altitude: 5,000 | Distance: 58 nm | ETE: 0:28
Post-Flight Review
- Common errors: radial/course, TO/FROM logic
- Hold entry timing and setup
- Use of G1000 bearing pointers (OBS)
Next Lesson Preview: Lesson 3
- Refine Holding Pattern entries
- Start VOR Approach Procedures (KACK VOR 24)
- Study Takeoff Minimums, Alternates, and descent planning
- IFH: Holding Patterns and Approach Planning
Resources
- → Download: Aviator.nyc Instrument Rating Files
- 📄 Instrument Flying Handbook: FAA-H-8083-15B PDF
- → Instrument Procedures Handbook: FAA IPH Online
- ▶ Loading and Checking the VOR24 into Nantucket using Garmin G1000
- ▶ Instrument Holds in Garmin G1000 | Two Methods
- ▶ PFD Setup For Instrument Training Flight
- ▶ Setting Your Flight Director: Heading Assignment Before Takeoff
- ▶ Loading Flight Plan | Garmin G1000 NXi
- ▶ Check NOTAMs Before Flying Instrument Procedure
- ▶ FAA Chart Briefing Guide
- ▶ Jeppesen Chart Briefing Tutorial
- ▶ Video: IAF vs. Vectors and Approach Activation
- → Study Takeoff Minimums, Alternates, and descent planning
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
Objectives
- Learn to brief and fly Non-Precision Approaches (VOR, LOC, LNAV) to MDA
- Understand step-down fixes, altitude awareness, and identifying the Missed Approach Point (MAP)
- Execute full VOR approaches with automation and manual modes
- Practice hold entries and IFR approach configuration using the G1000
- Introduce LOC approaches and the differences from VOR procedures
Pilot Preparation (Homework and Study Resources)
- Read:
- IPH 4-37 to 4-42: Glidepaths, Missed Approach, IAP Briefing
- IFH: Review autopilot section focusing on VNAV setups
- Watch:
- "Non-Precision Approaches"
- "Approach Configuration Pt 1 and 2"
- "KUAO LOC 17 Brief and Fly"
- Everything Explained for the Professional Pilot: Holds, Instrument Approaches Intro, Non-Precision Approaches, Take-off and Alternates
- Assigned Videos:
Review from Lesson 3
- Holding Pattern Entry Types: Direct, Parallel, Teardrop
- VOR radial/bearing interpretation in holding and approach
- Execution of VOR 24 KACK and VOR 6 KMVY with radar guidance
- Manual vs automated approach execution and CDI navigation
- IAF vs Vectors for approach entry and loading
Pre-Flight Briefing Topics
- Review topics from "Everything Explained": FAF Approaches, Non-Precision Approaches, IFR Departures and Takeoff Minimums, Fuel Requirements, Alternates, and Missed Approach Setup
- Deep Dive Topics:
- G1000 Approach Configuration Guide
- Step-down fixes and descent profiles
- Identifying MAP and briefing the missed approach
Stabilized Approach and Missed Approach Brief
An IFR approach is considered stabilized when all of the following criteria are met prior to the FAF, and continues to touch-down:
- Proper airspeed
- Correct flight path
- Correct aircraft configuration for phase of flight
- Appropriate power setting for aircraft configuration
- Normal angle and rate of descent
- Only minor corrections with pitch and power are required to correct airspeed and glide path deviations
- Normal bracketing (+/- 5 degrees) is used to correct for lateral navigation deviations
Do not change flap configuration after crossing the FAF until the runway is in sight and landing is assured.
Missed Approach Brief: "In the case of go-around: Mixture forward, prop forward, throttle forward. Disengage the autopilot (if needed), push TO/GO, push NAV or HDG, bring the nose to 7.5-10 degrees, set the flaps to 10 degrees, positive rate gear up, at 200ft flaps up, at 400ft verify the missed approach altitude, notify ATC. Then brief the missed approach profile."
In-Flight Tasks (Simulator)
- IFR Clearance Review if applicable
- Approach Practice:
- VOR 24 KACK: Use NAV, VNAV, HDG, VS, and green needle. Identify MAP and execute missed approach.
- VOR 6 KMVY: Radar vectors only; no procedure turn. Understand vector-to-final logic.
- Hold Execution: Integrate hold entries in approach phase. Apply wind correction, timing, reversal techniques.
- Introduce LOC 11 at KSBP: Compare to VOR - no glidepath, higher precision. Use chart with only LOC (not ILS+LOC). Emphasize setup, intercept angle, and MDA.
What's Coming Next (Lesson 5)
- Precision Approaches: ILS, LPV, GPS
- GPS Approaches: RNAV and LPV
- IFR Departures revisited
- G1000 Sequencing Video Playlist
Objectives
- Execute Precision Approaches (ILS, LPV) to decision altitude using flight director and autopilot
- Learn missed approach automation and use of TO/GA
- Understand and brief SID procedures (IFR departures)
- Practice GPS approaches with LNAV/VNAV, LPV minimums
- Manage G1000 sequencing and annunciators during complex approaches
Pilot Preparation (Homework and Study Resources)
- Optional Flight Plan Practice: Plan IFR route: KMMU to KLGA. IFR Clearance Audio
- Filed Route: KMMU V3 SBJ ROBER KLGA | Altitude: 4,000 | Distance: 28 nm | ETE: 0:16
More KMMU ForeFlight Briefings: KMMU → KMDT (PDF) | KMMU → KALB (PDF)
- Read:
- IPH: 4-63 to 4-66 (ILS Categories + Simultaneous Approaches)
- IFH: Review Missed Approach Section, Attitude Recovery
- Sporty's Video: "Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs)"
- Review: Re-brief missed approach actions (PDF), Load and Fly LOC 11 at KPRB in sim
- From Everything Explained: Instrument Approaches, Take-off and Alternates, IFR departures, Precision Approaches
- Assigned Videos:
Review from Lesson 4
- VOR and LOC approaches flown to MDA
- Practice using autopilot, HDG, NAV, and VNAV modes
- Understanding IAF vs vector-to-final setups
- Identifying step-down fixes and MAP
- Hold integration into approach segments
Pre-Flight Briefing Topics
- Define and compare Precision vs. Non-Precision Approaches
- Review SID procedures for IFR departures
- Take-off and Alternate minimums
- Introduce Precision Approaches
- Brief missed approach procedure actions step-by-step
- Review missed approach configuration: Disconnect AP, full forward configuration, TO/GA pitch, gear/flaps, SUSP mode, missed alt set, tower call
In-Flight Tasks (Simulator)
- Start at KTEB:
- Load and brief TEB SID
- KTEB Frequencies: ATIS 132.85 | Clearance 128.05 | Ground 121.9 | Tower 119.5 | Approach 127.6
- Practice the departure from every runway to the top altitude
- Identify the threats for each runway
- Use flight director through climb
- Debrief SID performance after reaching top altitude
- Reposition at KPRB: Join LOC 11 at PRB IAF, Perform full procedure with briefing and configuration
- Execute a Missed Approach:
- Disconnect Autopilot
- Mixture Forward
- Prop Forward
- Throttle forward (TO/GA)
- Pitch for 10 degrees nose up
- Positive rate - Gear UP
- Clear of obstacles - Flaps up
- Select SUSP (if TO/GA was not used)
- Set Missed Approach Alt
- Notify the tower
- Precision Approach Practice: Introduce ILS 11 at KSBP, Track GS and LOC using FD/AP, Practice transitions from vector to intercept
- Approach Configuration Guide
What's Coming Next (Lesson 6)
- Expand on non-precision and precision approach
- Intro to GPS approaches
- Execute full approach procedures without vectors
Additional Resources
- G1000 Approach Sequencing Video Series
- Pilot Cafe Quick Reference Guide
- Read from Everything Explained for the Professional Pilot: Precision Approaches, GPS Approaches, Take-off and Alternates, IFR departures, IFR General
Sporty's Video: "Precision Approaches - ILS, LPV" and "Missed Approach Procedures"
Resources
- → IFR Clearance Audio
- 📄 KMMU → KMDT (PDF)
- 📄 KMMU → KALB (PDF)
- ▶ Part 1: Instrument Approach Configuration
- ▶ Approach Configuration 1/2 a DOT
- ▶ How to Fly an RNAV Approach? | KTIX RNAV 18
- ▶ Approach Activation: Vector-to-Final, Approach, Leg, Extended
- → Approach Configuration Guide
- ▶ G1000 Approach Sequencing Video Series
- → Pilot Cafe Quick Reference Guide
Objectives
- Fly full LOC and VOR approaches without vectors, using raw data and full procedure routing
- Improve proficiency with manual navigation, especially procedure turns and outbound timing
- Cross-check navigation sources (e.g., NAV1, NAV2, bearing pointers)
- Reaffirm precision approach concepts via ILS 11 at KSBP
Pilot Preparation (Homework and Study Resources)
- Read:
- IPH 4-66: VOR Approaches
- Review NAV Source Switch Procedures (GPS vs LOC1/LOC2)
- Watch - Sporty's:
- G1000 Approach Source Switching
- ILS and VOR Switching in G1000
- Review These Resources:
- GPS Approaches and VNAV:
Review from Lesson 5
- Execution of Precision Approaches (ILS, LPV) to decision altitude
- G1000 sequencing and autopilot configuration
- TO/GA use and missed approach flow: pitch, power, gear/flaps, missed alt, SUSP
- IFR Departure setup via SID from KTEB
- LOC and GPS integration during practice approaches
Pre-Flight Briefing Topics
- Brief KSWF departure to IGN and VOR 24 at KPOU: VOR 24 KPOU Approach Briefing
- Discuss ILS 11 at KSBP:
- Reinforce precision approach principles
- Manage inbound intercepts and glideslope tracking
- Review procedural routing vs ATC vectors
- Emphasize timing, station passage, and outbound intercepts
In-Flight Tasks (Simulator)
- Part 1: VOR 24 KPOU Approach (from SWF via IGN)
- Fly full routing: no vectors
- Use NAV radios and OBS/manual CDI settings
- Practice procedure turn, timing, and inbound intercept
- Part 2: ILS 11 KSBP
- Reposition to KSBP
- Reinforce use of autopilot and manual LOC + GS intercept
- Focus on G1000 annunciations and staying ahead of the airplane
What's Coming Next (Lesson 7)
- Begin GPS Approach Mastery:
- Differentiate between LNAV, LNAV/VNAV, and LPV minimums
- Understand RNP and WAAS behavior in approach modes
- Watch: RNAV 31 in KPAO
Lesson Objectives
- Learn to brief and fly Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs)
- Program VNAV descents using G1000
- Understand crossing restrictions and arrival sequencing
- Use ATC-style changes enroute: altitude amendments, speed restrictions
Pre-Lesson Preparation
Read:
- IPH 4-25 to 4-34: WAAS, LPV, LNAV, Baro-VNAV
- IFH: Approach Categories and Approach Segments
Watch:
- Flying RNAV 31 KPAO - LPV Mode
- Approach Sequencing in G1000
Review:
- Climb Gradient for IFR Flight - Part 1
- Climb Gradient for IFR Departure - Part 2
- When Can You Turn After Departure? - Part 3
From Everything Explained:
- Precision Approaches
- GPS Approaches
- IFR General
- IFR departures
Briefing Topics
- STAR vs. ATC vectored arrival (e.g., SFO DYAMD STAR with RNAV 28L)
- Interpreting STAR charts (RNAV vs non-RNAV)
- Loading STAR and approach transition in G1000
- Vertical deviation indicators and VNAV profile view
- Setting crossing altitudes and VNAV target fixes
Simulator Session
- Start at KAVP: Reposition to 10,000 feet and 20 miles from MUGZY on LVZ STAR to MMU
- Meet MUGZY crossing restriction using VNAV and G1000 profile page
- Monitor altitude, speed, and lateral deviation
- Fly LPV RNAV approach of your choice
- Fly LNAV/VNAV and LNAV+VNAV
- Fly LNAV-only approach on G1000
- Handle speed and descent changes from simulated ATC
Post-Flight Actions
- Review vertical navigation planning errors
- Interpret STARs and understand ATC flexibility
- Practice reprogramming G1000 fixes and altitudes in-flight
Next Lesson: Lesson 8
- Enroute Navigation and Diversions
- Lost Comms Procedures and Holding with EFC
Lesson Objectives
- Practice IFR reroutes and enroute diversions
- Handle lost communication scenarios using FAR 91.185
- Re-enter ATC system after deviation
- Hold with EFC time and proper logic
Pre-Lesson Preparation
Read:
- IPH 3-3 to 3-9: Descent Planning and CFIT (Controlled Flight Into Terrain)
- IFH: VNAV application, pitch vs power descent profiles
Watch:
- Using VNAV and Vertical Speed Modes
- OBS and Fix-Based Approaches in G1000
- IAF vs Vectors
- Approach Activation Explained
- G1000 VNAV Feature
- KTIX RNAV 18
- KHAF RNAV 30
- KBYI RNAV 20
- KPAO RNAV 31
- How to Use OBS Mode in G1000
From Everything Explained:
- Precision Approaches
- GPS Approaches
- IFR General
- IFR Departures
Briefing Topics
- Lost Comms logic: Route (AVEF) and Altitude (MEA)
- Re-entry: Squawk 7600, visual ID, tower coordination
- Diversions in G1000: Direct-To, OBS mode, editing flight plans
- Handling EFC logic and "hold for release" instructions
Simulator Session
- IFR Flight from KMMU to KSYR
- Simulate ATC reroute: Direct SAX to V252 to GDM
- Practice hold at SAX with EFC and 15 kt crosswind
- Simulate lost comms event and follow FAR 91.185 decision tree
Post-Flight Actions
- Decision-making under lost comms scenarios
- Direct-To vs full reroute via edited flight plans
- Executing a hold at unplanned fix using EFC logic
Next Lesson: Lesson 9
- IFR Emergencies
- Vacuum Failures, ADC/PFD Failures, Electrical Failures
Lesson Objectives
- Recognize and handle vacuum, pitot-static, and electrical failures
- Fly partial panel using G1000 reversionary modes
- Understand backup instruments and procedures
- Use standby attitude indicator, magnetic compass, and non-GPS navigation
Pre-Lesson Preparation
Read:
- IFH Ch. 10 - IFR Flight (Departure to Arrival to Alternate Minimums)
- IPH 2-21 to 2-44: Cruise Altitudes, Enroute Reporting, Holding
Watch:
- Rerouting in Flight with G1000
- Flying a Missed Approach and Loading Alternate
Review:
From Everything Explained:
- Diversion, Fuel Reserves, Alternate Logic
- How to Handle ATC Changes on the Fly
Briefing Topics
- Transition to backup systems: G1000 split screen, reversionary mode
- Electrical failure hierarchy: Essential Bus, load shedding, alternator
- GPS failure vs RNAV database expiry
Simulator Session
- Simulate PFD failure - use MFD reversion
- Fail ADC: fly using compass and backup attitude
- Create non-GPS approach scenario (LOC or VOR or LDA or NDB)
Post-Flight Actions
- Revisit approach plates, G1000 usage, IFR checklist, autopilot modes
- Final read-through: Everything Explained - Top 10 checkride errors
Next Lesson: Lesson 10
- Checkride prep and transition to the airplane
Lesson Objectives
- Practice approaches as needed (VOR, LOC, ILS, RNAV, NDB, LDA)
- Demonstrate complete approach flow: approach to missed to hold
Pre-Lesson Preparation
Final Review:
- Pilot Café Quick Reference
- Instrument Flying Handbook
- Instrument Procedures Handbook
- Sporty's Instrument Rating Course
- FAA ACS for Instrument Rating
Briefing Topics
- Crosswind operation techniques
- Review missed procedures and critical decision points
- Scenario planning: weather below minimums, alternate required
Simulator Session
- Practice approaches at selected checkride airport
- Perform full FAA-style briefing and checklist procedures
- Simulate system failures and demonstrate backup procedures
Post-Flight Actions
- Confidence-building through realistic scenario training
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.
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