Recent content by acrophile

Yup, those conditions are real instrument conditions (that is, conditions that require flight by reference to instruments), but still just simulated IMC. Instrument conditions are neither necessary or sufficient for IMC, as defined by the FAA; that is, you can have instrument conditions without...

This thread includes a disgusting outpouring of bigoted slurs against a fellow pilot. Does PoA policy condone such attacks, or not? If it does, what other minority groups are fair game here?

I don't see why unintentional VFR-into-IMC should be treated differently than any other unintentional infraction where ATC communication could be helpful. And as you point out, most unintended violations are treated nonpunitively anyway, especially if an ASRS report is filed. But some pilots...

Uh, Caitlyn Jenner became a celebrity because of her world-class athletic achievements. I hadn't realized that she's also an accomplished pilot. Barry Schiff's article was excellent.

I think the river itself is the only option along most of the route. A prompt rescue is very likely there, so ditching has a good chance of success even in cold weather (especially if you've brought flotation jackets along).

Oh. That's disappointing. Thanks for the info, though.

What traffic information is omitted if you lack ADS-B out? (I can't find anything about that in the FAA's FAQ.)

I'd guess there's little or no punishment typically involved (especially if an ASRS report is filed). Even remedial training, when mandated, is not particularly punitive. But blanket guaranteed amnesty for VFR-into-IMC would sharply increase the rate of such incursions, and presto, safety would...

I agree, but talking to ATC could still be important in situations like that. Even in areas that lack radar coverage, ATC can separate planes by using their anticipated positions.

Is it known whether the plane your friend heard taking off was the same one that crashed?

I don't know about iPads, but for Androids (phones and tablets) there's a ADSB Receiver app that works with a receiver dongle, for a total cost of about 25 dollars.

If you're able to fly by reference to instruments, the main reason to be afraid of unauthorized IMC is that you can't see and avoid other traffic, and they likewise can't see you. It's way safer if VFR-into-IMC pilots 'fess up and get ATC separation services. But sadly, some pilots would rather...

Another possible way to get audio is to splice in the relevant MP3s from the LiveATC archive.

It's true you probably won't be in an accident. But that's also true of IFR pilots. But it's true that you're even less likely than IFR pilots to be in an accident. But it's not true that you don't take any chances when you fly. That's certainly a reasonably view. But I'm a nerd, so having more...

My own experience differs. Sure, I'd enjoy flying VFR-only if I had to. But for me, flying among clouds is among the most beautiful experiences in aviation. And I do enjoy the challenge of shooting approaches, when I'm properly proficient (for me, maintaining proficiency includes frequent...