scope:

The Instrument Procedures Handbook is designed as a technical reference for professional pilots who are conducting instrument flight rule (IFR) operations in the National Airspace System (NAS). Certified instrument flight instructors, instrument pilots, and instrument students may find this handbook a valuable training aid since it 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 (LAHSO), controlled flight into terrain (CFIT), and human factors issues also are included. Chapter 1 provides an overview of IFR operations in the NAS and highlights system improvement efforts being implemented by the FAA. Pilots, instructors, and flight crewmembers who are seeking only IFR procedural information may choose to begin with Chapter 2 - Takeoffs and Departures. The emphasis of this handbook applies to airplane operations. Guidelines specific to helicopter IFR operations are included in Appendix C - Helicopter Instrument Procedures.