ACS IR.I.B

), the applicant should be prepared for questions on any weather product presented in the references for that Task. The FAA encourages applicants and instructors to use the ACS when preparing for the airman knowledge tests and practical tests. Evaluators must conduct the practical test in accordance with the current ACS and FAA regulations pursuant to 14 CFR part 61, section 61.43. If an applicant is entitled to credit for Areas of Operation previously passed as indicated on a Notice of Disapproval of Application or Letter of Discontinuance, evaluators shall use the ACS currently in effect on the date of the test. The ground portion of the practical test allows the evaluator to determine whether the applicant is sufficiently prepared to advance to the flight portion of the practical test. The applicant must pass the ground portion of the practical test before beginning the flight portion. The oral questioning will continue throughout the entire practical test. Combined Private/Instrument Test Applicants for a combined Private Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating, in accordance with 14 CFR part 61, section 61.65(a) and (g), must pass all areas designated in the Private Pilot for Airplane ACS and the Instrument Rating – Airplane ACS. Evaluators need not duplicate Tasks. For example, only one preflight demonstration would be required; however, the Preflight Task from the Instrument Rating – Airplane ACS would be more extensive than the Preflight Task from the Private Pilot for Airplane ACS to ensure readiness for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flight. Applicants for a combined test must present the applicable test reports. A combined certificate and rating evaluation should be treated as one practical test, requiring only one application and resulting in only one temporary certificate, disapproval notice, or letter of discontinuance, as applicable. Failure of any Task will result in a failure of the entire test and application. Therefore, even if the deficient maneuver was instrument related and the performance of all visual flight rules (VFR) Tasks was determined to be satisfactory, the applicant will receive a notice of disapproval. Instructor Responsibilities The instructor trains and qualifies the applicant to meet the established standards for knowledge, risk management, and skill elements in all Tasks appropriate to the certificate and rating sought. The instructor should use this ACS and its references when preparing the applicant to take the practical test and when retraining the applicant to proficiency in any subject(s) missed on the knowledge test. Evaluator Responsibilities An evaluator includes the following: • Aviation Safety Inspector (ASI); • Pilot examiner (other than administrative pilot examiners); • Training center evaluator (TCE); 27 Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and OutcomesInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) • Chief instructor, assistant chief instructor, or check instructor of pilot school holding examining authority; or • Instrument Flight Instructor (CFII) conducting an instrument proficiency check (IPC). The evaluator who conducts the practical test verifies the applicant has met the aeronautical experience requirements specified for a certificate or rating before administering the test. During the practical test, the evaluator determines whether the applicant meets the established standards of aeronautical knowledge, risk management, and skills for the Tasks in the appropriate ACS. The evaluator must develop a plan of action (POA) that includes all required Areas of Operation and Tasks and administer each practical test in English. The POA must include scenario(s) that evaluate as many of the required Areas of Operation and Tasks as possible. As a scenario unfolds during the test, the evaluator will introduce problems and simulate emergencies that test the applicant’s ability. The evaluator has the discretion to modify the POA to accommodate unexpected situations as they arise or suspend and later resume a scenario to assess certain Tasks. Prior to and throughout the evaluation, the evaluator ensures the applicant meets the FAA Aviation English Language Standard (AELS). An applicant must be able to communicate in English in a discernible and understandable manner with air traffic control (ATC), pilots, and others involved in preparing an aircraft for flight and operating an aircraft in flight. This communication may or may not involve radio communications. An applicant for an FAA certificate or rating issued in accordance with 14 CFR parts 61, 63, 65, or 107 who cannot hear or speak due to a medical deficiency may be eligible for an FAA certificate with specific operational limitations. If the applicant’s ability to meet the FAA AELS comes into question before starting the practical test, the evaluator will not begin the practical test. An evaluator other than an ASI will check the box, “Referred to FSO for Aviation English Language Standard Determination,” located on the bottom of page 2 of the applicant’s FAA Form 8710-1, Airman Certificate and/ or Rating Application, or FAA Form 8710-11, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application - Sport Pilot, as applicable. The evaluator will refer the applicant to the appropriate Flight Standards Office (FSO). If the applicant’s ability to meet the FAA AELS comes into question after the practical test begins, an evaluator who other than an ASI will discontinue the practical test and check the box, “Referred to FSO for Aviation English Language Standard Determination,” on the application. The evaluator will also issue FAA Form 8060-5, Notice of Disapproval of Application, with the comment “Does Not Demonstrate FAA AELS” in addition to any unsatisfactory Task(s). The evaluator will refer the applicant to the appropriate FSO. ASIs conducting the practical test may assess an applicant’s English language proficiency in accordance with FAA Order 8900.1. In either case, the evaluator must complete and submit the application file through normal application procedures and evaluators other than an ASI notify the appropriate FSO of the referral. If the ability of an FAA certificated airman comes into question prior to or during a required regulatory check (e.g., proficiency check) the evaluator other than an ASI will not continue the check or provide an endorsement indicating completion. The evaluator will refer the airman to the jurisdictional FAA field office for further determination of ability to meet the FAA AELS. For additional information, reference AC 60-28, FAA English Language Standard for an FAA Certificate issued under 14 CFR parts 61, 63, 65, and 107, as amended. The abbreviation(s) within parentheses immediately following a Task refers to the category and/or class airplane appropriate to that Task. The absence of a class indicates the Task is for all classes. The meaning of each abbreviation is as follows: • ASEL—Airplane – Single-Engine Land • ASES—Airplane – Single-Engine Sea • AMEL—Airplane – Multiengine Land • AMES—Airplane – Multiengine Sea Possible Outcomes of the Test A practical test has three possible outcomes: (1) Temporary Airman Certificate (satisfactory), (2) Notice of Disapproval of Application (unsatisfactory), or (3) Letter of Discontinuance. If the evaluator determines that a Task is incomplete, or the outcome is uncertain, the evaluator must require the applicant to repeat that Task, or portions of that Task. This provision does not mean that instruction, practice, or the repetition of an unsatisfactory Task is permitted during the practical test. 28 Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and OutcomesInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) Satisfactory Performance Refer to 14 CFR part 61, section 61.43, for satisfactory performance requirements. Satisfactory performance will result in the issuance of a temporary certificate. Unsatisfactory Performance If, in the judgment of the evaluator, the applicant does not meet the standards for any Task, the applicant fails the Task and associated Area of Operation and the evaluator issues a Notice of Disapproval of Application. The evaluator lists the Area(s) of Operation in which the applicant did not meet the standard, any Area(s) of Operation not tested, and the number of practical test failures. The evaluator should also list the Tasks failed or Tasks not tested within any unsatisfactory or partially completed Area(s) of Operation. 14 CFR part 61, section 61.43(c)-(f) provides additional unsatisfactory performance requirements and parameters. Typical areas of unsatisfactory performance and grounds for disqualification include: • Any action or lack of action by the applicant that requires corrective intervention by the evaluator to maintain safe flight. • Failure to use proper and effective visual scanning techniques to clear the area before and while performing maneuvers. • Consistently exceeding tolerances stated in the skill elements of the Task. • Failure to take prompt corrective action when tolerances are exceeded. • Failure to exercise risk management. The evaluator or the applicant may end the test if the applicant fails a Task. The evaluator may continue the test only with the consent of the applicant. The applicant receives credit only for those Areas of Operation and the associated Tasks performed satisfactorily. Letter of Discontinuance Refer to 14 CFR part 61, section 61.43(e)(2) for conditions to issue a letter of discontinuance. If discontinuing a practical test for reasons other than unsatisfactory performance (e.g., equipment failure, weather, illness), the evaluator must return all test paperwork to the applicant. The evaluator must prepare, sign, and issue a Letter of Discontinuance that lists those Areas of Operation the applicant successfully completed and the time period remaining to complete the test to receive credit for previously completed Areas of Operation. The evaluator should advise the applicant to present the Letter of Discontinuance to the evaluator when the practical test resumes in order to receive credit for the items successfully completed. The Letter of Discontinuance becomes part of the applicant's certification file. Time Limit and Credit after a Discontinued Practical Test Refer to 14 CFR part 61, sections 61.39(f) and 61.43(f) after issuance of a Letter of Discontinuance or Notice of Disapproval of Application. Additional Rating Task Table For an applicant who holds an instrument rating in another category and seeks an additional Instrument Airplane rating, the evaluator must evaluate that applicant in the Areas of Operation and Tasks listed in the Additional Rating Task Table. The evaluator may evaluate the applicant’s competence in the remaining Areas of Operation and Tasks. 29 Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and OutcomesInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) Addition of an Airplane Rating to an Existing Instrument Rating Certificate The table below indicates the required Tasks for each Area of Operation tested in accordance with this ACS. Required Area of Operation Required Task(s) I None II A,C III None IV All V None VI All VII All VIII All ote:N In Area of Operation VII, Emergency Operations, Tasks B and C apply to multiengine tests only. The removal of the “Airplane Multiengine VFR Only” limitation, at the private pilot or commercial pilot certificate level, requires an applicant to satisfactorily perform the following Area of Operation and Tasks from the Instrument Rating ‒ Airplane ACS: Area of Operation VII, Emergency Operations , in a multiengine airplane that has a manufacturer’s published VMC speed. • Task B: One Engine Inoperative during Straight-and-Level Flight and Turns (AMEL, AMES) • Task C: Instrument Approach and Landing with an Inoperative Engine (Simulated) (AMEL, AMES) Instrument Proficiency Check 14 CFR part 61, section 61.57(d) sets forth the requirements for an instrument proficiency check (IPC). Evaluators conducting an IPC must ensure the pilot meets the standards established in this ACS. As a minimum, the applicant must demonstrate the ability to perform the Tasks listed in the table below. The person giving the check should develop a scenario that incorporates as many required Tasks as practical to assess the pilot’s aeronautical decision making (ADM) and risk management skills. Required Area of Operation Required Task(s) I None II None III B IV B V A VI All VII B,C,D VIII All ote:N In Area of Operation VII, Emergency Operations, Tasks B and C apply to multiengine tests only. An Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) can be utilized for the majority of the IPC as specified in the Letter of Authorization issued for the device. However, the circling approach, the landing Task, and the multiengine airplane Tasks must be accomplished in an aircraft or FFS (Level B, C, or D). A Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD) cannot be used for 30 Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and OutcomesInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) any part of the IPC. Refer to Advisory Circular (AC) 61-98 (as amended), Currency Requirements and Guidance for the Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency Check, as amended for information on conducting an IPC. The AC can be found at: www.faa.gov. 31 Appendix 2: Safety of FlightInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) Appendix 2: Safety of Flight General Safety of flight must be the prime consideration at all times. The evaluator, applicant, and crew must be continually alert for other traffic. If performing aspects of a given maneuver, such as emergency procedures, would jeopardize safety, the evaluator will ask the applicant to simulate that portion of the maneuver. The evaluator will assess the applicant’s use of visual scanning and collision avoidance procedures throughout the entire test. Stall and Spin Awareness During flight training and testing, the applicant and the instructor or evaluator must always recognize and avoid operations that could lead to an inadvertent stall or spin and inadvertent loss of control. Use of Checklists Throughout the practical test, the applicant is evaluated on the use of an appropriate checklist. Assessing proper checklist use depends upon the specific Task. In all cases, the evaluator should determine whether the applicant demonstrates CRM, appropriately divides attention, and uses proper visual scanning. In some situations, reading the actual checklist may be impractical or unsafe. In such cases, the evaluator should assess the applicant's performance of published or recommended immediate action "memory" items along with their review of the appropriate checklist once conditions permit. In a single-pilot airplane, the applicant should demonstrate the crew resource management (CRM) principles described as single-pilot resource management (SRM). Proper use depends on the specific Task being evaluated. If the use of the checklist while accomplishing elements of an Objective would be either unsafe or impractical in a single-pilot operation, the applicant should review the checklist after accomplishing the elements. Positive Exchange of Flight Controls A clear understanding of who has control of the aircraft must exist. Prior to flight, the pilots involved should conduct a briefing that includes reviewing the procedures for exchanging flight controls. The FAA recommends a positive three-step process for exchanging flight controls between pilots: • When one pilot seeks to have the other pilot take control of the aircraft, they will say, “You have the flight controls.” • The second pilot acknowledges immediately by saying, “I have the flight controls.” • The first pilot again says, “You have the flight controls,” and visually confirms the exchange. Pilots should follow this procedure during any exchange of flight controls, including any occurrence during the practical test. The FAA also recommends that both pilots use a visual check to verify that the exchange has occurred. Doubt as to who is flying the aircraft should not occur. Use of Distractions Numerous studies indicate that many accidents have occurred when the pilot has been distracted during critical phases of flight. The evaluator should incorporate realistic distractions during the flight portion of the practical test to evaluate the pilot’s situational awareness and ability to utilize proper control technique while dividing attention both inside and outside the flight deck. Aeronautical Decision-Making, Risk Management, Crew Resource Management, and Single-Pilot Resource Management Throughout the practical test, the evaluator must assess the applicant’s ability to use sound aeronautical decision-making procedures in order to identify hazards and mitigate risk. The evaluator must accomplish this requirement by reference to the risk management elements of the given Task(s), and by developing scenarios that incorporate and combine Tasks appropriate to assessing the applicant’s risk management in making safe aeronautical decisions. For example, the evaluator 32 Appendix 2: Safety of FlightInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) may develop a scenario that incorporates weather decisions and performance planning. In assessing the applicant’s performance, the evaluator should take note of the applicant’s use of CRM and, if appropriate, SRM. CRM/SRM is the set of competencies that includes situational awareness, communication skills, teamwork, task allocation, and decision-making within a comprehensive framework of standard operating procedures (SOP). SRM specifically refers to the management of all resources onboard the aircraft, as well as outside resources available to the single pilot. Multiengine Considerations For instrument practical tests conducted in multiengine aircraft, the evaluator must discuss with the applicant the methods for simulating an engine failure in accordance with the aircraft manufacturer's recommended procedures during the required preflight briefing. 33 Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & LimitationsInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & Limitations Aircraft Requirements & Limitations If the aircraft has inoperative equipment and can be operated in accordance with 14 CFR part 91, section 91.213, it must be determined if any inoperative instruments or equipment are required to complete the practical test. The inoperative equipment must not interfere with practical test requirements. Applicants testing in a multiengine airplane must provide a multiengine airplane with a published VMC unless the airman’s certificate has a center thrust limitation. Equipment Requirements & Limitations The aircraft must meet the requirements as outlined in 14 CFR part 61, section 61.45. To assist in management of the aircraft during the practical test, the applicant is expected to demonstrate automation management skills by utilizing installed, available, or airborne equipment such as autopilot, avionics and systems displays, and/or a flight management system (FMS). The evaluator is expected to test the applicant’s knowledge of the systems that are available or installed and operative during both the ground and flight portions of the practical test. If the applicant has trained using a portable electronic flight bag (EFB) to display charts and data and wishes to use the EFB during the practical test, the applicant is expected to demonstrate appropriate knowledge, risk management, and skill appropriate to its use. If the practical test involves maneuvering the aircraft solely by reference to instruments, the applicant is required by 14 CFR part 61, section 61.45(d)(2) to provide an appropriate view limiting device acceptable to the Administrator. The applicant and the evaluator should establish a procedure as to when and how this device should be donned and removed and brief this procedure before the flight. This device must prevent the applicant from having visual reference outside the aircraft, but it must not restrict the evaluator’s ability to see and avoid other traffic. The use of the device does not apply to specific elements within a Task when there is a requirement for visual references. Use of Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD) Applicants for a pilot certificate or rating can accomplish all or part of a practical test or proficiency check in an FSTD qualified under 14 CFR part 60, which includes full flight simulators (FFS) or flight training devices (FTD), only when conducted within an FAA-approved training program. Each operational rule part identifies additional requirements for the approval and use of FSTDs in an FAA-approved training program. Credit for Pilot Time in an FSTD 14 CFR part 61 and part 141 specify the minimum experience requirements for each certificate or rating sought. 14 CFR part 61 and the appendices to part 141 specify the maximum amount of FFS or FTD flight training time an applicant can apply toward those experience requirements. Use of Aviation Training Devices (ATD) Applicants for a pilot certificate or rating cannot use an ATD to accomplish a practical test, a 14 CFR part 61, section 61.58 proficiency check, or the flight portion of a 14 CFR part 61, section 61.57 flight review. An ATD is defined in 14 CFR part 61, section 61.1. The FAA’s General Aviation and Commercial Division evaluates and approves ATDs as permitted under 14 CFR part 61, section 61.4(c) and FAA Order 8900.1. Each ATD is then issued an FAA letter of authorization (LOA) that is valid for 60 calendar months. The LOA for each ATD lists the pilot time credit allowances and associated limitations. The Pilot Training and Certification Group public website provides a list of the FAA-approved ATDs and the associated manufacturer. Credit for Pilot Time in an ATD 14 CFR part 61 and part 141 specify the minimum experience requirements for each certificate or rating sought. 14 CFR part 61 and the appendices to part 141 specify the maximum amount of ATD flight training time an applicant can apply toward those experience requirements. The LOA for each FAA-approved ATD lists the pilot time credit allowances and the associated limitations. 34 Appendix 3: Aircraft, Equipment, and Operational Requirements & LimitationsInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) Evaluators must request an applicant to provide a copy of the manufacturer's LOA when using ATD flight training time credit to meet the minimum experience requirements for an airman pilot certificate, rating, or privilege. Operational Requirements, Limitations, & Task Information V. Navigation Systems

Acceptable weather products and resources required for preflight planning, current and forecast weather for departure, en route, and arrival phases of flight such as:

a. Airport Observations (METAR and SPECI) and Pilot Observations (PIREP)

b. Surface Analysis Chart, Ceiling and Visibility Chart (CVA)

c. Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAF)

d. Graphical Forecasts for Aviation (GFA) 3

e. Wind and Temperature Aloft Forecast (FB)

f. Convective Outlook (AC)

g. Inflight Aviation Weather Advisories including Airmen's Meteorological Information (AIRMET), Significant Meteorological Information (SIGMET), and Convective SIGMET

Meteorology applicable to the departure, en route, alternate, and destination for flights conducted under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) to include expected climate and hazardous conditions such as:

to satisfy the requirement to select one knowledge element. The References for each Task indicate the source material for Task elements. For example, in the Task element “Sources of weather data (e.g., National Weather Service, Flight Service) for flight planning purposes” (

b. Wind (e.g., windshear, mountain wave, factors affecting wind, etc.)

c. Temperature and heat exchange

d. Moisture/precipitation

e. Weather system formation, including air masses and fronts

g. Turbulence

h. Thunderstorms and microbursts

i. Icing and freezing level information

l. Obstructions to visibility (e.g., smoke, haze, volcanic ash, etc.)

IR = Applicable ACS I = Area of Operation B =Task K4 = Task element (in this example, Knowledge 4) There is no requirement for an evaluator to test every knowledge and risk management element in a Task; rather the evaluator has discretion to sample as needed to ensure the applicant’s mastery of that Task. The required minimum elements to be tested from each applicable Task include: • any elements in which the applicant was shown to be deficient on the knowledge test, as applicable; • at least one knowledge element; • at least one risk management element; and • all skill elements unless otherwise noted. The Airman Knowledge Test Report (AKTR) lists ACS codes that correlate to a specific Task element for a given Area of 26 Appendix 1: Practical Test Roles, Responsibilities, and OutcomesInstrument Rating – Airplane ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8C) Operation for any incorrect responses on the knowledge test. Knowledge and risk management elements are primarily evaluated during the knowledge testing phase of the airman certification process. The evaluator administering the practical test has the discretion to combine Tasks/elements as appropriate to testing scenarios. Unless otherwise noted in the Task, the evaluator must test each item in the skills section by observing the applicant perform each one. As safety of flight conditions permit, the evaluator should use questions during flight to test knowledge and risk management elements not evident in the demonstrated skills. To the greatest extent practicable, evaluators should test the applicant’s ability to apply and correlate information and use rote questions only when they are appropriate for the material being tested. If the Task includes a knowledge or risk element with sub-elements, the evaluator may choose the primary element and select at least one sub-element to satisfy the requirement. Selection of the sub-element satisfies the requirement for one element unless otherwise noted. For example, an evaluator who chooses

Making the go/no-go and continue/divert decisions, including:

a. Circumstances that would make diversion prudent

b. Personal weather minimums

c. Hazardous weather conditions, including known or forecast icing or turbulence aloft

Use and limitations of:

a. Installed onboard weather equipment

b. Aviation weather reports and forecasts

c. Inflight weather resources

Use available aviation weather resources to obtain an adequate weather briefing.

Analyze the implications of at least three of the conditions listed in K3a through K3l, using actual weather or weather conditions provided by the evaluator.

Correlate weather information to make a go/no-go decision. 4

Determine whether an alternate airport is required, and, if required, whether the selected alternate airport meets regulatory requirements.