Instrument Procedures Handbook

This handbook supersedes FAA-H-8261-16A, Instrument Procedures Handbook, dated 2015. It is designed as a technical
reference for all pilots who operate under instrument flight rules (IFR) in the National Airspace System (NAS). It expands
and updates information contained in the FAA-H-8083-15B, Instrument Flying Handbook, and introduces advanced
information for IFR operations. Instrument flight instructors, instrument pilots, and instrument students will also find this
handbook a valuable resource since it is used as a reference for the Airline Transport Pilot and Instrument Knowledge Tests
and for the Practical Test Standards. It also provides detailed coverage of instrument charts and procedures including IFR
takeoff, departure, en route, arrival, approach, and landing. Safety information covering relevant subjects such as runway
incursion, land and hold short operations, controlled flight into terrain, and human factors issues also are included.
This handbook conforms to pilot training and certification concepts established by the Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA). The discussion and explanations reflect the most commonly used instrument procedures. Occasionally, the word
“must”or similar language is used where the desired action is deemed critical. The use of such language is not intended
to add to, interpret, or relieve pilots of their responsibility imposed by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR).