Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement for Instrument Rating (IR Testing Supplement)
The Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement for Instrument Rating (FAA-CT-8080-3F) contains the figures, charts, and reference materials that are available during the FAA Instrument Rating knowledge test. It includes approach plates, enroute charts, weather charts, performance tables, and other reference materials that questions on the IRA test reference.
Why This Document Matters
This supplement is the companion to the Instrument Rating knowledge test. When a test question says "refer to Figure 91," this is where Figure 91 lives. It contains instrument approach procedure charts, IFR enroute chart excerpts, weather depiction charts, SIGMETs, TAFs, and other reference materials specific to instrument flying. Studying with this supplement alongside practice test questions is essential for IRA test preparation.
Chapter-by-Chapter Guide
What each section covers and the key topics to study
1Instrument Approach Procedure Charts
Sample IAP charts used in knowledge test questions including ILS, VOR, RNAV, and LOC approaches.
Instrument Approach Procedure Charts
Sample IAP charts used in knowledge test questions including ILS, VOR, RNAV, and LOC approaches.
Key Topics
2IFR Enroute and Weather Charts
Enroute chart excerpts, weather depiction charts, and prognostic charts for test reference.
IFR Enroute and Weather Charts
Enroute chart excerpts, weather depiction charts, and prognostic charts for test reference.
Key Topics
Study Tips
- Download and print the supplement — you will see the exact same figures on test day. Practice interpreting every chart type until you can read them quickly and accurately.
- Focus on instrument approach plates: know how to read the briefing strip, plan view, profile view, and minimums section. Many IRA test questions reference specific approach plates from this supplement.
- Practice decoding TAFs and METARs using the examples in the supplement. Weather interpretation questions make up a significant portion of the IRA knowledge test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have access to this supplement during the knowledge test?
Yes. The testing supplement is provided to you at the testing center. When a question references a specific figure number, you will look it up in this supplement. Studying with the supplement beforehand ensures you can find and interpret figures quickly during the timed test.
Is this supplement different from the Private Pilot testing supplement?
Yes. The Instrument Rating supplement (FAA-CT-8080-3F) contains IFR-specific materials like approach plates, IFR enroute charts, and instrument-specific weather products. The Private Pilot supplement (FAA-CT-8080-2H) focuses on VFR charts, basic weather, and performance charts.
Quick Facts
- Document ID
- FAA-CT-8080-3F
- Last Updated
- 2024
- Cost
- Free
- Publisher
- FAA
Applies To
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Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement for Instrument Rating (FAA-CT-8080-3F) is an official FAA publication available at FAA.gov
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