Points in Space

The first GPS I used in the air was a Garmin 95 portable. Brick-shaped and nearly brick-sized, its etch-a-sketch screen was a still a revelation. We could go direct to airway fixes and watch the little black pixels approach just as the CDI needles swung to center. This was back when we taught instrument students how to eyeball a course direct to a fix defined by two VOR radials.

jwanwest

Friday, July 14, 2017 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The article outlines a challenging simulated IFR flight scenario, forcing pilots to integrate traditional VOR/ILS navigation with modern GPS systems under demanding weather conditions.
It underscores the enduring importance of fundamental instrument flying skills, such as fix and radial interception, even as GPS simplifies many aspects, often requiring creative "old school" solutions for complex procedures.
Situational awareness and disciplined fix crossing (using techniques like the "5 Ts" or "CAPERS" checklist) are presented as critical for managing rapid transitions and dynamic environments in instrument flight.
The debrief section delves into specific navigational dilemmas, including turn anticipation, crosswind correction, and the strategic use and integration of different navigation sources throughout the complex route.

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The first GPS I used in the air was a Garmin 95 portable. Brick-shaped and nearly brick-sized, it’s etch-a-sketch screen was a still a revelation. We could go direct to airway fixes and watch the little black pixels approach just as the CDI needles swung to center. This was back when we taught instrument students how to eyeball a course “direct” to a fix defined by two VOR radials.

That technique has been rendered both unnecessary and verboten by RNAV and regulation respectively, but skills in intercepting fixes and radials are still required for IFR aplomb. Hitting fixes is what this challenge is all about. It’s a twist-fest if you don’t have a GPS. It should keep you moving even if you do. Either way, serious situational awareness is the key, so let’s chair-fly it before powering up the simulator.