Instrument Procedures Handbook (IPH)
The Instrument Procedures Handbook (FAA-H-8083-16B) is a free FAA publication providing in-depth coverage of IFR procedures, departure procedures, enroute operations, arrivals, and instrument approaches. It complements the Instrument Flying Handbook by going deeper into procedural details. Download it at no cost from FAA.gov.
Why This Document Matters
The IPH picks up where the Instrument Flying Handbook leaves off. While the IFH teaches fundamental instrument flying skills, the IPH dives deep into the procedures that govern IFR operations. It covers how to read and fly instrument approach procedures, interpret departure procedures (ODP, SID), navigate the enroute structure, and manage arrivals (STAR). If you want to truly understand IFR operations beyond the checkride minimum, the IPH is your guide. It is especially valuable for pilots transitioning from training to real-world IFR flying.
Chapter-by-Chapter Guide
What each section covers and the key topics to study
1Chapter 1: Departure Procedures
Obstacle departure procedures, SIDs, and departure planning.
Chapter 1: Departure Procedures
Obstacle departure procedures, SIDs, and departure planning.
Key Topics
2Chapter 2: Enroute Operations
Enroute charts, airways, MEA, MOCA, and enroute navigation.
Chapter 2: Enroute Operations
Enroute charts, airways, MEA, MOCA, and enroute navigation.
Key Topics
3Chapter 3: Arrivals
STARs, descent planning, and transition to the approach.
Chapter 3: Arrivals
STARs, descent planning, and transition to the approach.
Key Topics
4Chapter 4: Instrument Approach Procedures
Approach chart interpretation, segments, minimums, and procedure design.
Chapter 4: Instrument Approach Procedures
Approach chart interpretation, segments, minimums, and procedure design.
Key Topics
5Chapter 5: RNAV and RNP
Area navigation, required navigation performance, and GPS approaches.
Chapter 5: RNAV and RNP
Area navigation, required navigation performance, and GPS approaches.
Key Topics
Study Tips
- Study approach chart interpretation in Chapter 4 thoroughly. Understanding how to read an approach plate is essential for instrument flying.
- Learn the difference between MDA (minimum descent altitude) for nonprecision approaches and DA (decision altitude) for precision approaches.
- Understand climb gradient requirements in departure procedures. Many ODPs and SIDs require climb gradients steeper than the standard 200 feet per nautical mile.
- Use the IPH to understand RNAV approaches, which are increasingly common. Know the difference between LNAV, LNAV/VNAV, and LPV minimums.
- Cross-reference the IPH with real instrument approach charts from FAA digital products. Practice reading real charts while studying the procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Instrument Procedures Handbook free?
Yes, it is a free PDF from FAA.gov.
Do I need the IPH for my instrument rating?
The IFH is the primary study reference for the instrument rating. The IPH provides supplemental depth, especially useful for understanding approach procedures and RNAV operations. It is highly recommended but not strictly required.
What is the difference between MDA and DA?
MDA (Minimum Descent Altitude) is used on nonprecision approaches—you descend to MDA and fly level until you see the runway environment or reach the missed approach point. DA (Decision Altitude) is used on precision approaches—at DA, you must immediately decide to land or execute the missed approach.
Quick Facts
- Document ID
- FAA-H-8083-16B
- Last Updated
- 2017
- Cost
- Free
- Publisher
- FAA
Applies To
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Instrument Procedures Handbook (FAA-H-8083-16B) is an official FAA publication available at FAA.gov
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