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Flight Test Items - 1. Pre-flight

1. A. Obtaining Weather Information (Ground item)

Aim

To determine the candidate’s ability to retrieve and interpret the aviation weather information necessary for the safe conduct of a flight in accordance with the Instrument Flight Rules.

Description

The candidate will obtain and interpret aviation weather information for the route of flight assigned for the flight test.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate’s ability to retrieve and interpret items such as:

  1. weather reports and forecasts (METAR/TAF);
     
  2. graphic area forecast (GFA);
     
  3. surface analysis chart;
     
  4. significant weather prognostic charts (SIGWX);
     
  5. winds and temperatures aloft (FD);
     
  6. icing, turbulence and freezing level charts; 
       
  7. SIGMETs;
     
  8. PIREPS; and
     
  9. NOTAMs.

1. B. Flight Planning (Ground item)

Aim

To determine the candidate’s ability to plan a flight utilizing performance charts, weight and balance calculations and other information necessary for the safe conduct of a flight in accordance with Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).

Description

The candidate will plan a flight to an assigned destination. The candidate will prepare a flight log, weight and balance calculations and an IFR flight plan.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate’s ability to:

  1. describe the effects of meteorological conditions upon performance characteristics and correctly apply these factors to a specific chart, table, graph or other performance data;
     
  2. demonstrate acceptable knowledge of procedures and planning while applying operational factors affecting aircraft performance;
       
  3. select an appropriate route, altitude and alternate;
     
  4. locate and apply information essential to the flight;
     
  5. integrate information such as weather reports and forecasts; surface analysis charts; significant weather prognostic charts; winds and temperatures aloft; icing, turbulence and freezing level charts, PIREPs, NOTAMs and SIGMETs into the planning of the flight;
     
  6. calculate the estimated time enroute and total fuel requirement based on factors such as power settings, operating altitude or flight level, wind and fuel reserve requirements;
       
  7. determine that the required performance for the planned flight is within the aircraft’s capability and operating limitations;
     
  8. make a competent “GO/NO-GO” decision based on available information for the planned flight; and
     
  9. complete a flight plan in a manner that reflects the conditions of the proposed flight;

1. C. Cockpit Checks

Aim

To determine the candidate’s ability to complete the cockpit checks necessary for a safe flight under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), including checks of aircraft systems related to IFR operations.

Description

The candidate will complete, all checks necessary for an IFR flight in accordance with published SOPs, owner’s checklists, or the POH/AFM.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based upon the candidate’s ability to:

  1. perform the pre-flight instrument, avionics and navigation equipment cockpit checks;
     
  2. determine that the aircraft is properly equipped and serviceable for safe instrument flight;
       
  3. verify that publications and databases to be used are current;
     
  4. take appropriate action with respect to unsatisfactory conditions identified; and
     
  5. complete checks applicable to anti-icing, de-icing, or ice warning systems.
Date modified:
2011-02-24