Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC)
| 23 January 2009
Regular 6 month Instrument Proficiency Checks are an excellent way to stay current. Not only will an IPC help you improve your instrument currency, but the instrument proficiency check will be a challenge which helps you understand and improve your current level of ability.
Even if you are already current to fly under IMC, during your Instrument Proficiency Check, you will discover things about your flying that can be improved. Commercial operators require proficiency checks every six months, shouldn't you hold yourself to the same standard?
The instrument proficiency check must be given by:
- An instrument flight instructor who holds the appropriate instrument instructor rating; or
- Designated Pilot Examiner / FAA Examiner
The IPC is structured like an instrument rating checkride and the PTS must be used to evaluate the candidate for an IPC.
Recency of Experience Requirements:
- An Instrument Proficiency Check
- Within the preceding 6 calendar months, that person has:
- performed and logged under actual or simulated instrument conditions
- appropriate to the appropriate category of aircraft for the instrument privileges sought or in an approved flight simulator
- at least six instrument approaches;
- holding procedures; and
- Intercepting and tracking courses through the use of navigation systems.
or
If the pilot does not meet either of these two requirements, the pilot has 6 months to become current otherwise an IPC is required.
Pilot Resources: