New Sim Challenge

A few months back, Jeff Van West-previous editor of IFR and respected aviation journalist who still hangs around here, you know, kinda like the brother-in-law who needs to get a real job-and I were brainstorming about using a simulator to maintain instrument proficiency. We continue to stress this topic because its an important tool in proficiency. But, as more and more of you are flying simulators-either your own commercial or home-built sims, or one at your FBO or flight school-one common theme is that many of us arent sure what to do once were in the box.

Frank Bowlin

Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The article addresses the common issue of pilots being unsure how to effectively use flight simulators to maintain instrument proficiency.
A new regular feature called "Sim Challenge," authored by aviation journalist Jeff Van West, is being introduced to provide detailed IFR lessons for simulator practice.
"Sim Challenge" aims to help pilots identify and manage nuances in IFR approaches in a safe environment, can be flown alone, and is even adaptable for mental "armchair flying" if a simulator isn't available.

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A few months back, Jeff Van West—previous editor of IFR and respected aviation journalist who still hangs around here, you know, kinda like the brother-in-law who needs to get a real job—and I were brainstorming about using a simulator to maintain instrument proficiency. We continue to stress this topic because it’s an important tool in proficiency. But, as more and more of you are flying simulators—either your own commercial or home-built sims, or one at your FBO or flight school—one common theme is that many of us aren’t sure what to do once we’re “in the box.”