I read with interest your article on VFR into IFR conditions (“Inadvertent IFR,” October 2009). It seems to me you missed one of the most obvious aids to maintaining control of the aircraft: Engage the autopilot and fly the plane with the heading bug on the heading indicator. Nothing could be simpler. Using the autopilot keeps turns at appropriate angles and gives you time to communicate and sort 288
By George
I read with interest your article on VFR into IFR conditions ("Inadvertent IFR," October 2009). It seems to me you missed one of the most obvious aids to maintaining control of the aircraft: Engage the autopilot and fly the plane with the heading bug on the heading indicator. Nothing could be simpler. Using the autopilot keeps turns at appropriate angles and gives you time to communicate and sort things out. The only additional factor to keep in mind is to maintain proper trim.
Key Takeaways:
- Autopilot can be a critical, life-saving aid for VFR pilots inadvertently entering IFR conditions, helping maintain aircraft control and providing time to assess the situation.
- General aviation pilots considering an EFIS (glass cockpit) upgrade must account for a significant learning curve and the challenge of maintaining proficiency without frequent flying.
- Low visibility takeoffs require extreme caution, specific favorable weather conditions, and an additional margin of airspeed at liftoff to ensure a safe initial climb.
- Pilots have the ultimate authority for aircraft safety and must be prepared to decline or modify Air Traffic Control instructions if they are unsafe or impractical.
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