The Extra Knowledge Test: Running the Avionics

Its a pretty new idea to prep for the avionics of an aircraft before beginning training. However, the advent of the G1000 has made it near insanity for a pilot to begin a type course in a Garmin-equipped plane without a good knowledge of G1000 operations. Most of the initial failures in the Mustang course were not for inability to fly a jet, but rather for inability to master the G1000.

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, January 06, 2015 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Pre-training on the G1000 avionics system is critical for pilots before starting a type course, as unfamiliarity with the system is a major cause of initial training failures.
Pilots should leverage resources such as Garmin's PC simulator, online courses, or instruction from a G1000-experienced CFI to master the system before ever stepping into an aircraft or simulator.
Proficiency with advanced autopilots, particularly the Garmin GFC 700, is essential, as incorrect AP usage can lead to critical errors and quickly unravel a flight scenario in the simulator.

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It’s a pretty new idea to prep for the avionics of an aircraft before beginning training. However, the advent of the G1000 has made it near insanity for a pilot to begin a type course in a Garmin-equipped plane without a good knowledge of G1000 operations. Most of the initial failures in the Mustang course were not for inability to fly a jet, but rather for inability to master the G1000.

Thankfully, there’s no excuse to show up unprepared. Garmin sells an inexpensive PC simulator of the G1000, selectable by aircraft type, which is a fantastic training tool. Paired with a G1000-experienced CFI, a pilot can master all the functions of the Garmin before ever stepping into a simulator or airplane. There are also several online or DVD-based G1000 training options. The advantage of training with a CFI is that it’s far easier for an instructor to probe weaknesses and test how much has truly sunk in. It’s all too easy to deceive yourself into thinking you have the Garmin down, only to be flummoxed in the sim.