Would you like some ground training with a CFII utilizing
an IFR Proficiency Simulator? I have the hardware and software for
you to learn IFR procedures or refresh your IFR proficiency. Give
me a call if you are interested.
Sorry, there are no real "simulators" for general aviation in
the Rochester area. These are called Basic Aviation Training Devices
(BATD) or Advanced Aviation Training Devices (AATD). I can, however,
provide you with invaluable training quite similar to an FAA certified
simulator - an IFR Procedure Simulator. The difference between AATD/BATD
and the IFR Procedure Trainer is that the AATD/BATDs cannot be certified
if a mouse is used to control buttons and knobs. AATD/BATDs can also
be
used to log some time toward some ratings and refresher training.
With that in mind, consider what can be done with a
"non-certified" IFR procedure simulator.
 | Instrument procedures can be practiced. |
| Cross-checks can be practiced. |
| Emergencies can be practiced with the "surprise" element. |
| It can be stopped, fast forwarded, rewound and the flight reviewed. |
| Have a question? stop the machine and discus it. |
| Save dollars by not paying for the airplane |
| Save training time through the efficiencies of simulation. |
| Practice instrument approaches to anyplace in the country. |
| Weather and winds can be changed for realistic senerios. |
Some people say, I can't log that. Who cares about what you
put in your logbook? What's really important is what do you log toward
experience - What's put in that experience logbook.
Some people say, it just doesn't fly or feel like the real
airplane. That's true, but if you can fly the IFR Procedure
Simulator, you can fly the real thing even better.
What do instrument failures
really look like? When a vacuum pump fails, it isn't
somebody just slap, slap two Post-It's over two gauges, saying,
"there - you lost your vacuum pump. What are you going to do?"
That attitude indicator might start a slow drift. The heading indicator
won't hold. You kind of wonder what's going on. Nothing's making sense.
DG's turning one way; turn coordination is showing another. You're
scratching your head. Did you remember to include the vacuum gauge in your
scan? If you go in a simulator and have somebody
do this to you, actually fail the vacuum pump, you'll start to be a better
pilot.
Or, perhaps maybe your oil pressure fails. Did you looked at your oil pressure
lately? Maybe your engine's going to quit soon. What are your
options? Try practicing an IFR engine out or failing approach
lately. Two things about emergencies in the simulator: 1)
You'll live through it and laugh about it. 2) You'll be more ready
for the problem if it should happen for real.
