In IFR flying, we navigate by following invisible paths—legs en route and guidance like localizers and glide slopes on approaches.
⦁ When air is turbulent, fly above MDA to give you a buffer
⦁ Do not bank more than standard rate
⦁ Remember compass errors ANDS NOSE UNOS
⦁ Use bearing needles (BRG1/BRG2) for situational awareness (SA)
⦁ VFR on top when pilot requests...Uses magnetic course
⦁ Keep resetting the heading bug to be on top even when on NAV mode
⦁ Part 121 can't even start an approach if weather is reported below minimums...consider that in Part 91 operations
⦁ OBS mode = turns airport or GPS waypoints into quasi VOR
⦁ 400 feet AGL rule after takeoff see AIM 5-2-9 (e)(1)
⦁ Can't intercept the GS from above it
⦁ When using Visual Approaches...Stay clear of clouds per AIM 5-5-11 (keep the runway visual)
⦁ Keep resetting the heading bug to be on top even when on NAV mode
⦁ Circling approaches allows you to transition from IFR to VFR
⦁ ATC will vector you to a fix listed on the approach or will vector you between the IF and FAF
⦁ Request full approach using the hold if needing more time
⦁ Do not ask the tower for approach if you were not talking to ATC but you can still use the ILS for guidance
⦁ PTAC = Position Turn Altitude Clearance
⦁ "Expect" -> Load approach dot not activate
ILS Details:
https://www.boldmethod.com/learn-to-fly/systems/ils-how-the-instrument-landing-system-works/
⦁ Too busy trying to figure out where the waypoint is? "Can I get an initial vector?"
⦁ Request a Cruise Clearance...Example "N123AB Cruise 8000" = Stay between MEA to 8000
⦁ Information vs instruction
⦁ No radar coverage, no vectors
⦁ Mandatory reporting when not in radar coverage
⦁ GPS MEA should include ATC coverage
⦁ R for FSS is frequency they receive on
⦁ Canceling IFR -> 1200
⦁ Especially on a cloudy day, park at an airport with a handheld radio so you can listen to how ATC and pilots talk
Definitions
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-F/part-97/subpart-A/section-97.3
Part 91 rules
Do not use an airport without IFR approaches as part of your 'long cross country'
§ 61.65 Instrument rating requirements.
(d)(ii)(B) An instrument approach at each airport;
When can you legally log an approach
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/pilots/training/firc/InFO15012.pdf
Check out this great video
Kindle version or paperback available