What is ATPL Instrumentation? An Introduction
Welcome to our series introducing you to all the theory subjects pilots study during the academic phase of initial pilot training. Otherwise known as ‘ATPL ground school’.
(To find out more about becoming a pilot, check out this blog post.)
So, what is ATPL Instrumentation all about?
ATPL Instrumentation teaches you the theory and practical understanding of both traditional and modern aircraft instruments, preparing you to operate safely and efficiently in all the weather and operational conditions you’ll encountered in commercial aviation.
We’ve broken this ATPL theory subject down into two books: Basic and Advanced Instrumentation.
Why instruments are essential to pilots
In the early days of aviation, a pilot’s understanding of flight came almost entirely from their own senses—what they could see, hear, and feel.
Today, however, things are different. Aircraft are highly sophisticated and fly in a complex environment, often in adverse weather conditions and over inhospitable terrain. The instruments in the flight deck, and the information they display, are your primary source of information to maintain situational awareness and make good decisions.
In this subject, you’ll learn how they work and what they’re used for.
Understanding an aircraft’s instruments
The ATPL Instrumentation syllabus is designed to provide you with advanced theoretical knowledge about the instruments found in commercial aircraft. Our course ensures you:
- Understand the operation and limitations of flight instruments.
- Can interpret instrument indications accurately.
- Recognise and manage instrument failures.
- Are familiar with both conventional (analogue) and modern (electronic) displays.
You’ll study topics including:
- The six essential flight instruments: You’ll dive deep into the workings of the Airspeed Indicator, Attitude Indicator, Altimeter, Direction Indicator, Turn and Slip Indicator, and Vertical Speed Indicator.
- The ‘Basic T’ arrangement: Learn about the standardised layout of key instruments that allows for quick and intuitive scanning, a foundational skill for all pilots.
- System Integration and Failure Management: Understand how instruments can be affected by shared sources (e.g. static pressure) and learn how to manage failures effectively.
- Modern Instrumentation: You’ll be introduced to Electronic Flight Instrumentation Systems (EFIS), including the transition from conventional dials to digital displays like the Primary Flight Display (PFD) and Navigation Display (ND).
You’ll also learn about advanced safety systems like aircraft collision avoidance (ACAS/TCAS) and terrain alerting (EGPWS), which provide critical warnings and information.
EASA/CAA ATPL Instrumentation Exam
- Number of Questions: 60
- Exam Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
- Pass Mark: 75%
Padpilot ATPL Instrumentation books are available now any device as individual editions, or as part of a complete set of ATPL books.
They’re thorough, interactive and make complex information easier to learn and retain. Purchase a subscription below.
(Check with your ATO before subscribing, as some Padpilot partner schools already include our materials in your course package).
