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:

A new regular feature, "Sim Challenge," is being launched to provide structured lessons for pilots to effectively use flight simulators for instrument proficiency.
Authored by aviation journalist and instructor Jeff Van West, each challenge offers a detailed IFR lesson focusing on recognizing and dealing with flight nuances.
The "Sim Challenge" aims to provide a safe environment for pilots to learn from mistakes, improve skills, and enhance confidence, even allowing for "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.”