Comments on: Point of No Easy Return

By: Robert

Robert — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 02:47:10 +0000

Given expect vectors ILS and direct-to an IF, it should be reasonable to navigate by DME or the radial identifying the IF. Then work the knobs and get clarification as needed.

By: Kevin Collins

Kevin Collins — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:15:56 +0000

Here’s my story. I was inbound to PAO and hand-flying vectors in preparation for the GPS 31 approach, which I had loaded and activated from the nearest IAF. ATC then cleared me direct to an intermediate fix (DOCAL) between that IAF and the FAF. I considered using the 430′s display to vector myself to that fix and proceed without any reprogramming, but I wasn’t comfortable with the lack of course guidance. I had DOCAL on the active flight plan, but despite my familiarity with the 430 I didn’t know how to go directly to it. So, I punched in Direct To DOCAL. When I got close to the fix, I entered Direct To PAO, started the turn to intercept the new course, and then selected/activated the approach from the IAF. It was definitely a workload spike, but I intermingled the knobology with the stick and rudder stuff which made it very manageable for me. The stable air and light winds were also on my side.

Since then, I’ve become more comfortable with editing the active flight plan. I will also give a lot of thought to the ideas described above.

By: Doug Campbell

Doug Campbell — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 18:48:18 +0000

Nearest / Waypoint will likely show the desired fix?

By: Lloyd

Lloyd — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 14:26:21 +0000

Unrelated to the ILS, but to couple the auto pilot, does glide slope intercept on a G1000 RNAV approach require activating the approach?

By: Keith VanLierop

Keith VanLierop — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 02:03:13 +0000

“Skyhawk xxxxx proceed direct zzzzz, proceed inbound on the approach”
“Skyhawk xxxxx, can I get a heading for zzzzz?”
“Skyhawk xxxxx fly heading 340, intercept final, track inbound”

Problem solved.

GPS navigation is an awesome tool, but I agree with all above – don’t put the cart ahead of the horse. The easiest solution to any problem is not always button-pushing… ATC is there to HELP. Use ‘em.

While I’d agree that any instruction using Garmin navigators should address the proper use of (and improper use of) the VTF option, the fact remains that we have to be ready and able to step outside the box to fix the problem. Lets face it, even those of use who have lots of hours teaching complex avionics (Garmin or not) make an error from time to time. Teaching good ADM to help solve these problems makes good pilots, not just good button-pushers.

By: Marshall Collins

Marshall Collins — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 03:20:40 +0000

It’s to bad that the most simple solution was not presented to the readers of this article especially low time IFR pilots who would have much to learn from it. A simple, “Unable” response from the pilot would have started a dialog with ATC that both sides would have found beneficial. The FAR’s state that if a pilot is unable to comply with ATC instructions they are to notify ATC as soon as possible.

Marshall Collins CFII
Clover Park Technical College
Lakewood Washington

By: James dorman

James dorman — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 21:18:41 +0000

selected vectors and being aware of my position push center for vectors

By: Marc Greenstein

Marc Greenstein — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 17:24:09 +0000

When the altered clearance was received, I would respond, “UNABLE. Flight plan no longer has that waypoint. Request vectors to delay or an assigned heading.”
In my opinion,this immediately gives the controller a “heads-up” and is the safest option for all parties.

By: James McCormick

James McCormick — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 16:07:40 +0000

Activate the OBS on the gps and activate it, then enter “vectors to final” but not activate it until you are certain Approach will not change your clearance. That way you already have an idea where the localizer is and the flight plan is still active and a “direct to” is still in the GPS. When you are cleared to the localizer let the AP take you to the OBS and then switch modes.

By: Jerry Kaidor

Jerry Kaidor — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 14:25:02 +0000

Yes, VTF ( Vectors To Final ) is pretty much taboo when flying GPS approaches on the 430 etc. The controller will almost always send you to a fix outside the FAF. Whups, it’s gone away! So with a GPS approach, you always select a sub-approach which is complete.

As for what to do after you make the mistake – I’d just fess up and ask for a vector
to the waypoint that they want. Chances are, it’s on the extended centerline anyway. And there just isn’t time to mess with the box during an approach!

I only use VTF when flying an overlay approach ( ILS etc ) .

– Jerry Kaidor