Canada IATRA study guide
Canada IATRA · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Initial Aeroplane Type Rating - commonly called the IATRA - is a Transport Canada written examination that pilots complete as part of the requirements for a first aeroplane type rating. It is aimed at licensed pilots who are moving into a turbojet or otherwise type-rated aeroplane for the first time, and who must demonstrate a ground-level understanding of high-performance aircraft before flying the type. The Canada IATRA study guide has 4 sections and about 1,135 words.
01Aeroplane Systems and Performance
A candidate for the IATRA must be fluent in the aeroplane's powerplant, fuel, electrical, hydraulic, flight-control, ice-protection, and pressurization systems at the level of what happens and why . Know the difference between a normally aspirated and a turbocharged engine, how a constant-speed propeller governor responds to an overspeed, and why a failed alternator may leave you with a battery-only electrical supply and a time limit.
319 words, about 2 min02Flight Operations and Procedures
Flight operations questions probe your understanding of standard operating practice: pre-flight planning, fuel requirements, takeoff and landing briefings, and emergency procedures. You should know the memory items for engine failure after takeoff in a twin - maintain control, establish best single-engine climb speed, identify, verify, feather, and secure - and understand why the identify and verify steps are deliberately separated.
280 words, about 1 min03Meteorology and Flight Planning
Candidates must interpret METARs, TAFs, GFAs, and SIGMETs, and understand the formation of cumuliform versus stratiform cloud, the causes of icing and turbulence, and the structure of frontal systems. Know that freezing rain implies a warm layer aloft above a sub-freezing surface layer, and that it is a severe icing hazard.
263 words, about 1 min04Air Law, Navigation and Human Factors
Know the Canadian Aviation Regulations structure relevant to commercial operations: licensing and ratings, aircraft equipment requirements, maintenance and journey log requirements, and the rules of the air. Understand VFR weather minima in controlled and uncontrolled airspace, the purpose of a transponder and altitude encoding, and the requirements for a flight plan or itinerary.
273 words, about 1 min