Using Proficiency Sims

Where all aviation has its classic ABC of aviate - navigate - communicate, instrument flying has its own twist. We could call these maneuvers - procedures - communications. They are the building blocks of instrument flying and they atrophy just like any other flying skill. While you cant practice them completely at your desktop, you can keep at least the first two basically in tune. That is, so long as you treat this non-loggable desktop time as serious IFR practice.

IFR Staff

Thursday, April 02, 2015 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Desktop simulators are valuable tools for maintaining Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) proficiency by honing "maneuvers" like instrument scanning and "procedures" such as practicing full approach plates, radio setup, and handling failures.
Effective desktop practice involves developing a disciplined instrument scan, mastering consistent pitch and power settings, flying comprehensive procedures from departure to approach, and integrating simulated failures or real-time weather.
Popular software options include ASA's On Top for simplicity and integrated Garmin GNS 430, and X-Plane for realistic flight dynamics and visuals, though both often require third-party add-ons for accurate avionics simulation, especially for glass cockpits.
To maximize training benefits, a basic yoke and throttle quadrant are essential hardware additions for any chosen simulator software.

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Where all aviation has its classic ABC of “aviate – navigate – communicate,” instrument flying has its own twist. We could call these “maneuvers – procedures – communications.” They are the building blocks of instrument flying and they atrophy just like any other flying skill. While you can’t practice them completely at your desktop, you can keep at least the first two basically in tune. That is, so long as you treat this non-loggable desktop time as serious IFR practice.