Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc. has been the industry's trusted source for official FAA publications for over 80 years. Look for the ASA wings to ensure you're purchasing the latest authentic FAA release.

FAA-S-ACS-8C is current in 2025.
Includes FAA-G-ACS-2.

This Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Instrument Rating - Airplane Airman Certification Standards (ACS) document provides the aeronautical knowledge, risk management, and flight proficiency standards for the instrument rating in the airplane category. The FAA ACS comprise the testing standard for practical tests and proficiency checks for persons seeking or holding an airman certificate and/or rating. This book also includes the Airman Certification Standards Companion Guide for Pilots (FAA-G-ACS-2), with additional information relevant to applicants seeking FAA airman certification.

The goal of the airman certification process is to ensure the applicant possesses the knowledge, ability to manage risks, and skill consistent with the privileges of the certificate or rating being exercised, in order to act as pilot-in-command (PIC). The ACS is the guide for students, instructors, and evaluators to understand what applicants must know, consider, and do to pass the FAA Knowledge Exam and practical (checkride) and earn their pilot certificate or rating.