Canadian IFR Flight Test Groundwork

Introduction

This tutorial covers the essential groundwork for preparing for an IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flight test, specifically tailored for students at the Regina Flying Club. It outlines the key steps, from planning a cross-country flight to understanding the requirements for successful IFR operations.

Step 1: Preparation and Planning

• Receive Assignment: The flight test examiner will provide a simulated cross-country flight assignment at least a day in advance.
• Use ForeFlight App:
  • Download and set up the ForeFlight app if you don’t have it. You can borrow an iPad from the flying club if necessary.
  • Ensure your device is up to date and that there are no expired databases.
• Gather Necessary Documents:
  • Bring your pilot license and medical certificate.
  • Have a method of payment for the test fee (around CAD 350, excluding aircraft rental).

Step 2: Conduct Weight and Balance Calculations

• Perform Weight and Balance Checks:
  • Calculate the takeoff fuel weight, landing fuel weight, and zero fuel weight.
  • Ensure all weights are within the aircraft's legal envelope, especially for long cross-country flights where fuel load may affect range.

Step 3: Cross-Country Planning

• Select Route:
  • Use either Regina to Calgary (CYQR to CYYC) or Regina to Winnipeg (CYQR to CYWG) as your cross-country flight.
• Review Mandatory IFR Routes:
  • Consult the Canada Flight Supplement (CFS) to find mandatory IFR routes for your departure and arrival airports.
  • For Regina, consider using the Lumsden VOR for departure and selecting an appropriate arrival route into Calgary or Winnipeg.

Step 4: Utilize ForeFlight for Flight Planning

• Input Waypoints and Routes:
  • Input waypoints into ForeFlight to create your route. For example, for Regina to Calgary:
    • Start at CYQR, then add Lumsden VOR, Beachy NDB, and Shall We VOR.
    • Finally, incorporate the appropriate arrival route to Calgary.
• Altitude Considerations:
  • Plan your altitudes based on the area minimum altitudes and the requirements for safe navigation.

Step 5: Prepare for Ground Briefing with the Examiner

• Prepare for Common Questions:
  • Understand the route you are planning and be ready to discuss weather forecasts, NOTAMs, and the overall safety of the planned flight.
  • Call NAV CANADA for a weather briefing and summarize the key points for your examiner.

Step 6: Understand Weather and Approaches

• Know Your Weather Minimums:
  • Be familiar with the minimum visibility and cloud ceiling required for your intended approaches.
  • Make sure to check the TAF (Terminal Aerodrome Forecast) and METAR (Meteorological Aerodrome Report) for your departure, destination, and alternate airports.

Step 7: Alternate Airport Planning

• Select an Alternate Airport:
  • Choose an alternate airport that meets the required weather minimums based on your planned approach.
  • Ensure that the alternate is far enough from your destination to satisfy regulations if both airports are using GPS approaches.

Conclusion

Following these steps will ensure you are well-prepared for your IFR flight test. Key takeaways include thorough planning using ForeFlight, understanding weight and balance calculations, and being prepared to discuss your route, weather, and approach plans with your examiner. As you prepare, keep in mind the importance of personal safety and decision-making in IFR flying. Good luck with your flight test!