Note: This lesson uses a 2-4 degree rule of thumb for adjusting heading and radial. I know that the often taught method is "twist 10 turn 10" but for this lesson I chose to use the method outlined in the Instrument Flying Handbook just for standardization. DME Arcs may seem scary to new instrument pilots, but given a few quick and easy tips they can be as easy as tracking any … [Read more...] about How To Intercept and Fly DME Arcs
Approach Plate
Jeppesen vs. NACO (FAA) Approach Charts
** Spoiler Alert ** I'm a huge fan of Jeppesen instrument charts. I learned how to fly instruments using Jeppesen charts, and I continue to use Jeppesen charts every day at work. This video is biased toward Jeppesen however I hope it clearly shows the differences between the two chart products. --- One of the first challenges facing any instrument student is what chart … [Read more...] about Jeppesen vs. NACO (FAA) Approach Charts
The 5 Most Important Briefing Items on an Approach Chart
Ask 100 pilots to give an approach briefing and you will get 100 different briefs. Here are the 5 essential elements that I have come up with for briefing each approach I fly. As a rule I brief everything on the chart, but these items are what I make sure to emphasize to ensure a successful outcome. (Note: this is not intended to be everything needed to safely fly an approach, … [Read more...] about The 5 Most Important Briefing Items on an Approach Chart
Approach Plate Airport Diagram
The airport diagram section of the instrument approach chart gives the pilot the complete overview of the airport he or she is flying to. The information provided includes airport elevation, runway layouts, lighting, runway lengths, approach path, and approach timing. All of this information is critical if the pilot intends to break out and land at the runway, since … [Read more...] about Approach Plate Airport Diagram
Approach Plate Minima (Minimums)
The minima section of the instrument approach chart gives the pilot the complete set of descent minimums and visibility criteria for the procedure to be flown. The information provided includes all minimum altitudes for the approach, minimum visibility required to start the approach, heights above touchdown, and heights above the airport. Depending on the type of … [Read more...] about Approach Plate Minima (Minimums)