Register

Final Stage Check

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article advocates for diverse and challenging IFR practice, arguing against the notion that all procedures are identical regardless of location, to combat complacency and build robust pilot judgment.
  • It showcases a successful virtual IFR training method using home simulators, remote instruction, and live ATC (PilotEdge) which, though not loggable, effectively prepares pilots for complex scenarios and checkrides.
  • A detailed multi-leg virtual flight challenge illustrates how to test critical IFR skills through simulated GPS failures, complex VOR and ILS approaches, partial panel flying, and decision-making for varied airport conditions.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Some people say that it doesn’t matter where you practice IFR because all procedures use the same cookbook. An ILS is an ILS whether it ambles downward over the flatlands of Kansas or threads a nervous CDI needle between Colorado mountains. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve done the approach a hundred times or this is the first, you’re still flying the approach.

They’re wrong. Fear of course-deviation CFIT heightens the senses and sows self-doubt. Familiar procedures breed a creeping complacency. At least they do until those really low days when you realize you’ll be in this cloud down to cell-tower level.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE