BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE AIR FORCE ...

AFMAN 11-217V1 3 JANUARY 2005 23
The ITO is a composite visual and instrument takeoff when conditions permit, and should not
be confused with a "hooded takeoff." The ITO procedures and techniques are invaluable aids
during takeoffs at night, toward and over water or deserted areas, and during periods of
reduced visibility. It is important to immediately transition to instrument references any
time you become disoriented or when outside visual references become unreliable.
2.3.1. Preparing for the ITO. Before performing an ITO, perform an adequate beforetakeoff
check of all flight and navigation instruments to include publications. Select the
appropriate navigational aids to be used for the departure, and set the navigation
instruments and switches as required. The Air Traffic Control (ATC) clearance and
departure procedures must be thoroughly understood before takeoff. It is a good
operating practice to have the appropriate instrument approach procedure charts available
in the event an instrument approach is necessary immediately after takeoff. Review of
the approach for an emergency return should include frequencies, final approach course,
decision height (DH) or minimum descent altitude (MDA), and minimum safe, sector, or
emergency safe altitudes. Brief all crewmembers on specific duties during an emergency
return.
2.3.2. Performing the ITO. A composite takeoff is accomplished using normal Visual
Meteorological Conditions (VMC) procedures and combining reference to the flight
instruments with outside visual references to provide a smooth transition from VMC to
Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) flight. Prior to takeoff, the attitude
indicators should be adjusted according to you aircraft flight manual. These settings will
provide a constant attitude reference for the ITO regardless of aircraft attitude at the time
of adjustment.
2.3.3. The Takeoff. After a recheck of all instruments for proper operation, start the
takeoff by applying thrust of a predetermined setting. As thrust is applied, maintain the
desired heading with the rudder pedals and at the appropriate speed, establish the desired
ITO pitch attitude. When a positive climb indication is obtained, adjust the pitch attitude
as specified in the flight manual. As soon as the takeoff attitude is established,
crosscheck the vertical velocity indicator and altimeter to ensure you are climbing.
2.4. Individual Maneuvers.
2.4.1. Straight and Level Flight. Straight and level unaccelerated flight consists of
maintaining desired altitude, heading, and airspeed. Use pitch attitude control to
maintain or adjust the altitude. Use bank attitude control to maintain or adjust the
heading. Use power control to maintain or adjust the airspeed.
2.4.1.1. Maintaining a Desired Altitude.
2.4.1.1.1. Maintain a specific pitch. Maintaining a desired altitude requires the
ability to maintain a specific pitch attitude and, when necessary, to smoothly and
precisely adjust this attitude. This ability is developed through proper use of the
attitude indicator and is simplified by good trim techniques.
2.4.1.1.2. After leveling off. After leveling off at cruise airspeed, you may adjust
the pitch trim knob on the attitude indicator so that the miniature aircraft is
aligned with the horizon bar if allowed by your aircraft flight manual. This will
aid in detecting small pitch changes. Subsequent readjustments may be required