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INSTRUMENT PROFICIENCY CHECKS (IPC)

An Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) is a mandatory evaluation for instrument-rated pilots who have not met the recent flight experience requirements to maintain instrument flying privileges. It ensures that the pilot maintains the skills necessary for safe instrument flight. Here’s a detailed list of what an IPC entails:

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Purpose of an IPC

  • Maintain Currency: Required for pilots who have not met the instrument currency requirements (6 approaches, holding procedures, and intercepting and tracking courses within the preceding 6 months).

  • Safety and Proficiency: Ensures that pilots retain the necessary skills and knowledge for safe instrument operations.

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IPC Requirements

Eligibility

  1. Instrument Rating: Must hold a valid instrument rating.

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Flight Review Preparation

  1. Pre-Flight Preparation: Review of the pilot’s logbook and previous flight experience.

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Ground Portion

  1. Ground Review: The ground portion typically covers:

    • Regulations: Review of FARs related to IFR operations.

    • Weather: Understanding and interpretation of weather reports and forecasts.

    • Flight Planning: IFR flight planning, including the use of charts, approach plates, and filing flight plans.

    • Instrument Procedures: Discussion of IFR procedures, including approaches, holds, and en-route navigation.

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Flight Portion

  1. Flight Review: The flight portion includes practical demonstration of various IFR maneuvers and procedures, such as:

    • Instrument Takeoffs and Landings: Demonstrate proper technique for instrument takeoffs and landings.

    • Instrument Approaches: Perform various types of instrument approaches (e.g., ILS, VOR, GPS), including missed approaches.

    • Holding Procedures: Execute holding patterns at assigned locations.

    • Navigation: Use of navigational aids for en-route navigation and intercepting/ tracking courses.

    • Unusual Attitudes: Recover from unusual attitudes and simulated instrument failures.

    • Emergency Procedures: Handle simulated in-flight emergencies, such as electrical or instrument failures.

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IPC Documentation

  1. Logbook Endorsement: Upon successful completion, the instructor will endorse the pilot’s logbook, indicating that the IPC requirements have been met.

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