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IFR Clinic

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Thorough pre-flight planning is crucial, as the pilot discovered unexpected airport closures and limitations (night operations, services) only mid-flight due to overlooked details in airport data.
  • Pilots must be prepared for modern avionics failures by having and being proficient with backup equipment, such as older tuners, battery-powered devices, and physical approach charts for navigation.
  • In-flight emergencies, like a black-screen episode or an unexpected airport closure, necessitate adaptability, reliance on fundamental navigation skills, and clear communication with ATC for a safe resolution.
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Enduring a black-screen episode in flight, for those in the know, isn’t as bad as it sounds. While the thought of losing a moving color map is often the modern pilot’s horror-movie nightmare, most cockpits now have enough backup equipment so you can fly the airplane, navigate and (barring a full electrical failure) communicate. Do add a few essentials—a full array of charts, a good alternate, and a little recent practice. Then, you can make it out of the clouds, fly an approach and get on the ground without sweating, screaming, or going all white knuckles.

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