Embrace The IPC

Many of us feel that an IPC is as much fun as a visit to the dentist. We go through the checkup and if things are OK, we go on with our lives til the next appointment. Worse, for some the IPC is akin to a root canal-something to dread because theyve neglected the preventive care. Its the penalty for losing currency past the six-month window specified in 14 CFR 61.57.In any case, IPCs dont pique much excitement. They are an occasional formality for those who fly the system often, or a major chore for those who dont. It doesnt have to be that way. Rather than something to avoid, an IPC can improve your skills while you brush up on procedures you dont use often. You can even go further and have a bit of fun.Yeah, fun. In daily IFR flight, predictable and comfortable are good. The best response to How was your flight? is Uneventfully successful. We dont want unusual or difficult. Actual equipment breakdowns or emergencies are thankfully rare, but you want to be on your game when they happen. Unfortunately, all that routine doesnt keep you on your game for the abnormal situations.Use the IPC to stretch your skills. Figure out what youve neglected and refresh those basics. Then tackle new things. This keeps you proficient while you continue to expand your IFR repertoir. As a bonus, youll never worry about staying current.

Key Takeaways:

• The Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) should be viewed as an opportunity to enhance pilot skills and proficiency, rather than merely a dreaded legal formality for currency.
• Utilize the IPC to refresh infrequently practiced instrument procedures, basic maneuvers, and emergency skills like unusual attitude recoveries or partial panel operations.
• Beyond basic requirements, actively use the IPC to push skill boundaries with advanced scenarios, varied malfunctions, and different operational environments to build greater confidence and a wider IFR repertoire.

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