What a CFII must be able to cite
An instrument instructor is expected to ground every statement in an authoritative source. On the checkride and in the airplane, you should know not just the answer but where it lives.
Core regulatory references
- 14 CFR Part 61 — certification, currency, logging, and instructor privileges/limitations (especially 61.51, 61.57, 61.65, 61.195).
- 14 CFR Part 91 — operating rules: 91.167–91.193 (IFR operations), 91.205(d) required instruments/equipment, 91.175 (takeoff and landing under IFR).
Core handbooks
- Instrument Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-15) — the scan, attitude instrument flying, errors, unusual attitudes.
- Instrument Procedures Handbook (FAA-H-8083-16) — departures, en route, arrivals, approaches, charting.
- Aviation Instructor's Handbook (FAA-H-8083-9) — the how to teach book; learning theory, lesson planning, evaluation.
- Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25) — systems and aeromedical foundation.
Real-time references
- Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) — holding, approach procedures, communications, lost-comm guidance.
- Instrument Flight Instructor ACS (FAA-S-ACS-8) — the exact standards you are tested against and that you grade students against.
- Chart Supplement, TPP (terminal procedures), and current charts.
Aeromedical and ADM
- AC 60-22 (Aeronautical Decision Making) and the risk-management material now embedded throughout the ACS.
How to use them in instruction
When a student asks "why," do not answer from memory alone — show them the source. A student who learns to find the answer in the AIM or the regs becomes a self-correcting pilot. That habit transfer is part of your job.