Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

In instrument flying, what is the correct order of skills to be used?

1. Aircraft control, cross-check, and instrument interpretation.

2. Cross-check, instrument interpretation, and aircraft control.

3. Instrument interpretation, aircraft control, and cross-check.

4. Instrument interpretation, cross-check, and airspeed management.

The correct answer is: Cross-check, instrument interpretation, and aircraft control.

In instrument flying, the correct order of skills emphasizes the importance of maintaining situational awareness and ensuring accurate control of the aircraft through a systematic process. Starting with the cross-check, pilots prioritize scanning and rapidly assessing the various instruments. This is crucial because it allows the pilot to gather information about the aircraft's attitude, altitude, airspeed, and other critical parameters simultaneously. Following the cross-check, the next step is instrument interpretation, where the pilot analyzes the information gathered to understand the current flight situation. This involves synthesizing data from the instruments to make informed decisions on how to control the aircraft effectively. Finally, focusing on aircraft control ensures that the pilot applies the necessary corrections to maintain or adjust the flight path based on the information interpreted. By adhering to this sequence — cross-checking, interpreting the data, and then controlling the aircraft — pilots enhance their ability to operate safely and effectively in instrument conditions. This systematic approach helps mitigate the risk of pilot-induced errors by fostering a disciplined methodology for aircraft operation.