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 introduces "Sim Challenge," a new regular feature designed to help pilots effectively use flight simulators for maintaining instrument proficiency.
Penned by aviation expert Jeff Van West, each Sim Challenge provides a detailed IFR lesson, enabling pilots to practice recognizing and managing nuances in approaches.
This feature allows pilots to learn from mistakes in a safe simulator environment (or by "armchair flying"), aiming to improve proficiency, safety, and confidence without requiring an instructor.

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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.”