Integrated IFR Cross-Country
Full Block 2 mission integration - checkride preparation
OBJECTIVE
Enable trainees to synthesize all Block 2 elements—communications, flight planning, instruments, and navigation—in a comprehensive IFR cross-country mission in the T-38 Talon, managing real-world variables such as weather, ATC interactions, and emergencies, to demonstrate overall proficiency and readiness for advanced IFR operations at KSPS.
CONTENT
Pre-Flight Briefing and Preparation
- • Comprehensive review of all prior ground and flight lessons; discuss sortie objectives including full mission simulation from planning to execution, with emphasis on decision-making and CRM.
- • IFR flight planning: Trainees independently prepare and file a complete cross-country plan using DD Form 1801 (e.g., KSPS to Tinker or Dyess and return), incorporating weather analysis, alternates, NOTAMs, and T-38 performance data.
- • Safety and scenarios: Cover potential variables like delays, diversions, or system failures; include emergency simulations and IP evaluation criteria.
Airborne Procedures and Maneuvers
- • IFR clearance and full mission: Obtain clearance, execute departure/SID, enroute navigation with intercepts/tracking, holding if assigned by ATC, and multiple approaches (non-precision and precision) at destination.
- • Integration of elements: Manage enroute adjustments, comms for route changes/vectors, instrument control during transitions, and navigation using mixed aids (VOR/TACAN/EGI/RNAV); simulate real-time issues like weather deviations or lost comms (AVE-F).
- • Return and termination: Navigate back to KSPS via STAR/approach, perform circling or missed approach as needed, and ensure fuel/emergency planning adherence throughout.
MISSION ELEMENTS PRACTICED
Post-Flight Debrief
- • Holistic evaluation: Review entire mission using flight data, focusing on integration, tolerances, comms accuracy, and decision-making; grade against block objectives.
- • Trainee self-assessment: Reflect on strengths, weaknesses, and overall block readiness, with recommendations for remediation if needed.
COMPLETION STANDARDS
Trainees will demonstrate proficiency in integrated IFR cross-country operations through successful mission completion. Trainees should:
- • Maintain all tolerances across maneuvers (±100 ft altitude, ±10° heading, ±10 knots airspeed; precise nav intercepts)
- • Execute accurate full-cycle comms with no critical errors
- • Effectively handle variables per AETCMAN 11-251 standards
Outcome: Instructor recommendation for checkride readiness or additional practice