The FAA’s newest Information for Operators InFO 15012 answers a persistent question from pilots: how and when can they log instrument approach procedures (IAP) for flight currency and training. The InFO’s guidelines also apply to instrument practical tests and instrument proficiency checks. For a pilot to log an IAP, the agency specifically requires that he operate the aircraft solely by reference to instruments during all approach segments down to the MDA/DH, or to have at least been maneuvering in instrument conditions and established on the final approach until breaking out of the clouds.
Currently, FAR61.57(c)(1)(i) specifies an instrument-rated pilot must conduct and log a minimum of six IAPs every six months to remain instrument current. The agency accepts any of four possible methods to conduct and log those six approaches. One is to fly in actual instrument conditions. The second is to fly in simulated instrument conditions using a view-limiting device such as a hood. The third means is to use an FAA-approved full-flight simulator, a flight-training device or an aviation-training device to fly and log the required approaches. In the fourth method a combination of actual instrument flight and some simulator time is permitted.
