Register

Night Fright

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article describes a flight simulator challenge involving an out-and-back IFR trip between Santa Maria (KSMX) and Bakersfield Muni (L45).
  • Pilots are tasked with navigating challenging conditions including deep nighttime, low ceilings, limited visibility, strong winds, and mountainous terrain.
  • The challenge emphasizes precise GPS navigation, thorough chart review, understanding complex departure and approach procedures, and critical decision-making for safe flight.
  • A dedicated "Did You Consider This?" section prompts pilots to reflect on specific navigational and decision-making dilemmas encountered during the simulated flights.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Today’s Sim Challenge is just an out-and-back. You’ll start on the ramp at Santa Maria, California, (KSMX) and hop over the hills a scant 76 NM to Bakersfield Muni (L45). Leg Two is just the reverse. Simple … except you’ll set the outside visuals to deep nighttime with ceilings of 1000 feet at KSMX and visibility of 1.5 SM. Dial up a nice NW wind. Say 320 @ 15—or more if you’re feeling game. If you can, add a stiff wind at altitude. Something like 40-50 knots out of the northwest by 5000 feet.

Set the skies to broken clouds. Several layers would be best. Visibility can be anywhere from two SM to 20 as you wish. The big issue on visibility for this flight will be the absence of sunlight: Set the sim to be night time.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE