The article presents two simulated IFR flights in Alaska, challenging pilots with complex procedures and demanding conditions unique to the region.
The first flight from Iliamna to Nondalton tests proficient GPS usage for navigating a convoluted NDB-based ODP and executing a low-visibility RNAV approach to a short, gravel runway.
The second flight at Juneau requires "old-school" navigation skills (ADF, VOR, LOC) to manage a demanding ODP and an LDA X approach, complicated by severe terrain and a highly offset final course.
Both scenarios underscore the extreme difficulties of Alaskan IFR flying, emphasizing precision navigation, strategic decision-making, and the challenges of landing in marginal visibility.
For this challenge you’ll take on two flights in Alaska, with IFR procedures like you’ve never seen before. Well, unless you’ve flown in Alaska. You’ll need an IFR GPS for the first flight and an ADF for the second. Any plane with modest performance will do the job. In fact, slow could be your friend on this one.
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