When your instrument ticket was brand new your skills were ultra-sharp. But over time, winter doldrums, aircraft maintenance, etc. that proficiency atrophied. Indeed, research backs up the “use it or lose it” proficiency adage—see the sidebar. Flying in IMC is unforgiving, with the chance of an occupant perishing in an accident nine times higher than for bending aircraft in visual conditions.
How then to maintain, or even improve, your instrument proficiency? In February, Redbird introduced the “Redbird Pro” system, a personalized proficiency program to help pilots maintain and improve their proficiency. Focusing on the instrument pilot, I donned my research-scientist hat and took the system for a spin.
