Block 2 IFR Integrated Checkride
Full Block 2 evaluation per AETCMAN 11-251 and USAF standards
OBJECTIVE
Evaluate trainees' overall proficiency in all Block 2 elements�IFR communications, flight planning and filing, instrument control, and navigation�through a comprehensive checkride in the T-38 Talon, simulating a full IFR mission to confirm readiness for progression to subsequent blocks, aligning with USAF T-38 UPT standards at KSPS.
CONTENT
Pre-Flight Briefing and Preparation
- • Thorough review of all Block 2 objectives, ground lessons, and prior flights; discuss checkride scenarios, evaluation criteria, and pass/fail standards per AETCMAN 11-251.
- • IFR flight planning: Trainees independently prepare, brief, and file a complex cross-country or local IFR plan using DD Form 1801, incorporating real-time weather, NOTAMs, alternates, and T-38-specific contingencies.
- • Safety and evaluation: Emphasis on independent trainee performance with minimal IP intervention, including random emergency injections and adherence to CRM principles.
Airborne Procedures and Maneuvers
- • Full IFR mission: Obtain clearance, execute departure/SID, enroute navigation with intercepts/holding, multiple approaches (non-precision, precision, circling), and missed approaches, integrating all aids (VOR/TACAN/EGI/RNAV).
- • Scenario integration: Manage ATC interactions, real-time adjustments (vectors, route changes), instrument recoveries, and simulated emergencies while maintaining tolerances and situational awareness.
- • Termination: Complete approaches at KSPS or simulated divert, demonstrating decision-making at DH/MDA and safe landing or go-around.
CHECKRIDE ELEMENTS EVALUATED
Post-Flight Debrief
- • Detailed grading: Assess against block standards using flight data, focusing on no unsatisfactory items in critical areas (comms, nav, instruments); provide formal feedback on strengths and deficiencies.
- • Progression determination: Recommend pass/progression to Block 3 or remediation based on performance.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Evaluation may include, but not be limited to, the following areas:
Navigation Systems
- ▸ VOR radio systems in IFR conditions
- ▸ DME usage and interpretation
- ▸ GPS/RNAV operations
- ▸ Radial intercepts and tracking
Flight Planning
- ▸ IFR cross-country flight planning
- ▸ Weather analysis and alternate selection
- ▸ IFR flight plan filing (DD Form 1801)
- ▸ Fuel planning and contingencies
Holding & Approaches
- ▸ Holding procedures (entry & execution)
- ▸ Precision approaches (ILS/PAR)
- ▸ Non-precision approaches (VOR/RNAV)
- ▸ Circling approaches
Day & Night Operations
- ▸ Missed approach procedures (day)
- ▸ Missed approach procedures (night)
- ▸ Decision height/MDA operations
- ▸ Go-around decision making
Note: This list is not exhaustive. Evaluators may assess any Block 2 objective as the scenario dictates, including emergency procedures and CRM.
COMPLETION STANDARDS
Trainees must pass the checkride by demonstrating integrated proficiency across all Block 2 elements:
- • Maintain advanced maneuver tolerances (±50 ft altitude, ±5° heading, ±5 knots airspeed)
- • Execute accurate comms and navigation with no critical errors
- • No unsatisfactory items in critical areas per AETCMAN 11-251 and USAF standards
CHECKRIDE TOLERANCES (TIGHTER THAN TRAINING)
±50 ft
Altitude
±5°
Heading
±5 kts
Airspeed
Pass Requirement: No unsatisfactory items in critical areas; overall "Satisfactory" grade per USAF standards