Land of a Midnight Sim

One of simulations greatest strengths is flying parts of the world where you might never make it in person. Alaska calls to the hearts of many a pilot, so well take you there today. Nothing too strenuous: Just a jaunt from Anchorage (PANC) down south to Seward (PAWD) on the ocean and then over to Kenai (PAEN) on Cook Inlet. Yeah, ICAO Alaskan airports start with a P not a K. Hmm... if you put the I-meaning you-in PANC you get Panic. Coincidence?

jwanwest

Sunday, April 14, 2019 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The article describes a challenging simulated IFR flight across scenic Alaskan terrain, from Anchorage to Seward and then to Kenai, emphasizing the unique aspects of flying in the region.
It provides detailed instructions for setting up the simulation, including specific departure procedures, complex GPS and ILS approaches, and variable weather conditions.
The flight scenario incorporates critical skill practice, such as IFR GPS navigation, partial panel flying after an attitude indicator failure, and recovering from unusual attitudes.
The simulation highlights the importance of thorough flight planning, meticulous chart study, and adaptability to Alaska's demanding environment, learning from an experienced local pilot.

See a mistake? Contact us.

One of simulation’s greatest strengths is flying parts of the world where you might never make it in person. Alaska calls to the hearts of many a pilot, so we’ll take you there today. Nothing too strenuous: Just a jaunt from Anchorage (PANC) down south to Seward (PAWD) on the ocean and then over to Kenai (PAEN) on Cook Inlet. Yeah, ICAO Alaskan airports start with a “P” not a “K.” Hmm… if you put the “I”—meaning you—in PANC you get “Panic.” Coincidence?

You might need to install some missing scenery if you excluded Alaska to save space. You’ll also want a plane with IFR GPS for this one. If you don’t have that on your sim, don’t back out now. Use your tablet for GPS location. You’ve probably told yourself you would do that in the event of navigator failure in your airplane. How much practice do you have at actually doing it? Right.