IFR 22: So How Do I Fly This Thing?
In the Airplane! movie Robert Stack’s character says, “Flying an airplane is just like riding a bicycle, it’s just harder to put cards in the wheels”. The last time I flew IFR was a bit over seven weeks ago. It took that long to get the new directional gryo delivered and installed, then I was out of town for a while. Seven weeks later, I want to get back to it and finish my IFR ticket!
Instructor R and I went up to practice some approaches, the curricula for this lesson. Well, I was off my altitude around 200 feet getting there, and frankly I was behind the plane and playing catch up most of the way. It wouldn’t have met the PTS (Practical Test Standards). It definitely doesn’t meet my standards or R’s either. Yet, I was expecting worse.
Legally, doing 6 approaches and holding procedures every six months keeps you current to fly IFR with the FAA. I know I’m still wet-behind-the-ears with respect to IFR, but seven weeks off and I’m behind. This brought home the difference between currency and proficiency. The first is a FAA legal regulatory definition and must be satisfied. The second, however, is the most important to your success as a pilot.
So, I’m planning how to stay current and proficient. Six approaches in three months sounds good. And, I should have them distributed so I don’t more more than a week or two without making an IFR approach.