Recent content by MountainDude

That's a very good point. I am personally more comfortable learning all the options on my GPS, including those that would normally be covered by VOR/DME (for example, join a radial at XX DME), then do that AND keep proficiency with VOR/DME/ILS/LOC.

Thank you for sharing. I don't quite understand "to 39 DME"? Is it "intercept at 39 DME"?

Interesting. Is that because of your GPS receiver crapped out, or the signal was gone? How did you switch from GPS navigation to VOR?

My plan is to practice IFR flying myself and have at least 6 approaches, holds, and intercepts. It's a plan.

The usual, like everyone else. I would just focus on one system (GPS), instead of multiple (GPS plus VOR/LOC/ILS).

The reason to get IR is for the few instances of low ceilings. In the PNW, this happens quite often, and we either have to cancel a trip, wait for 1-4 hrs for it to clear, or fly to an inland airport (like Salem) instead of a coast airport where we want to be. We have been doing that for years...

My understanding is that GPS outages are rare, and they are NOTAMed. If I am going to fly 1-4 hrs in IMC per year (yes, per year), what are the odds I will run into an unannounced GPS outage? Yes, if I limit myself to GPS only, I will plan accordingly.

A very good discussion and info. I am grateful.

Here is an experienced IFR pilot flying in his local area making a simple mistake on the VOR approach. See around 7:20 mark. I am not sure what "functionally identical means", but what I know is that: - VORs have to be calibrated every so often (I think every 30 days) - You have to maintain...

Thank you for your input. I agree they are functionally similar, but remembering to work dual VORs is not easy if you are not proficient. I think (but not sure) that some LOC approaches are more complicated than a typical RNAV approach due to step-downs, where you have to calculate the descent...

I agree with what you said, but I am not comparing GPS to others. I am comparing GPS-only to all nav/approach methods combined. And I am sure maintaining proficiency is easier when focused on only one method. I also agree with your suggestion to start training first, then make the final panel...

Rare, combined with my rare IFR flying = super rare.

My understanding is that: 1. I have to learn it all once for the written, which is not a problem at all. 2. I will not have to learn or maintain proficiency in VOR/LOC/ILS navigation and approaches. How is that the same amount of work as using the GPS navigator only? Just by removing the need to...

Sorry I did not explain the motivation behind this thread (it was not the point). In my estimate, I will fly 1-4 hrs in light IMC (think a few clouds or a thin cloud layer around an airport) per year (yes, year). Given my busy life, I would not be a safe pilot if I tried to maintain proficiency...

They just released a new C182 with brand new seats! :)