Latest interpretation from the FAA concerning an IPC in our AATD’s (Posted 2023-10-14)

The use of Aviation Training Devices (ATD) is governed by Letters of Authorization (LOA) issued in accordance with the guidance in AC 61-136B, FAA Approval of Aviation Training Devices and Their Use for Training and Experience. The LOA specifies the tasks that may be logged in the device. Using the Redbird family as an example, the TD2 is a Basic Aviation Training Device (BATD). Its LOA lists §61.57(c)(2) instrument currency among the authorized uses but it does not list the §61.57(d)(1) instrument proficiency check. It is even more explicit later in the document, where it says, “No portion of the practical test, type specific training credit or Instrument Proficiency Check can be conducted in a BATD.” (Emphasis added.) So, while we may maintain our “six in six” instrument currency in the BATD, we may not use it to satisfy any task required for an IPC, even with an instructor evaluating us. In contrast, the LOA for the Redbird FMX, an Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) lists both instrument currency and an IPC as permitted uses. Unlike the BATD, there is no limiting language—just a general grant of IPC authority. This has led some to conclude that a complete IPC may be accomplished in an AATD, including the circling approach and landing tasks. It cannot. The catch is in the wording of the LOA authorization. We may use the AATD to satisfy a “§61.57(d)(1) – Instrument proficiency check,” but only per the Instrument ACS. “Per the Instrument ACS” doesn’t only mean looking at the PC task table to determine which tasks need to be accomplished. We also need to look at limitations the ACS places on the use of various devices. We find this information in two places; in a footnote to the PC Task Table on page 46 of the current Instrument-Airplane ACS and in a highlighted note in the Appendix 8 discussion of the “Use of Aviation Training Devices” at page A-17. “Note: AATDs can be utilized for the majority of the IPC as specified in the Letter of Authorization issued for the device. However, the circling approach, the landing Task, and the multiengine airplane Tasks must be accomplished in an aircraft or FFS (Level B, C, or D).” Thus, despite a general grant of authority in an AATD LOA, we nevertheless cannot use it to circle or land. Nor can we use it for the single-engine inoperative tasks in a multi. Fortunately, instrument ratings are category, but not class-specific, so accomplishing an IPC in a single renews instrument currency in a twin. Why the difference between Basic and Advanced? Most BATD are not much more sophisticated than an uncertified home PC simulator like XPlane or Microsoft Flight Simulator. An AATD is held to more rigorous standards. The FAA has come a long way in permitting some training and self directed pilot currency with relatively minimal equipment. They probably want something more for the checkride-like evaluation in an IPC.

UPDATE: March 24, 2023 

The GTN 750 is now operational.  All tactical knobs, buttons, and touchscreen are now active.  If you would like to include the GTN 750 is in your sim session please read below:

Until the GTN 750 can be integrated into a NAV DISPLAY (software update to make Directional Gtro into an HSI....Virtual Fly is still testing) please do the following:

1.  Turn off the Garmin 530

2.  Build flight plans and approaches in the GTN.

3.  The autopilot will follow the magenta line in the NAV mode with or without ALT HOLD.  It will even fly DME ARC.

4.  VNAV is unavailable until the software update.

5.  Arming the approach with the autopilot is not available until update, however ll approaches can be flown from any waypoint (IAF, IF, or FAF) manually using the LOC and GS needles.

6.  Missed approach guidance is in the GTN database for that approach.  If you did an ILS remember to select GPS for the missed and hold.  Hand fly until autopilot engagement, AP will level off at altitude in the window if ALT ARMED is selected.

The above are temporary measures until the software update is available for download.  Sorry for the delay, this update is taking longer than we ever expected. They say it is close.

The Solo G-1 (Garmin G-1000's) seems to be running relatively good, with just an occasional glitch.  Please write up any problems you encounter with either sim and leave the write up in the folder on the desk.  Thanks, Jack Morey (386) 235-5797.

UPDATE: DEC 15, 2022

G-1000:  The sim is running well.  The only issue we have deals with the range knob on right display.  It needs to be turned slowly.  If turned too rapidly it will kick off the PrePar3D which then requires a reboot. 

Sola A (Six Pack):  The Solo A now starts up normally, however, the SOLO STATION DEVICES TEST will now appear on the GTN 750 display.  This was necessary to move it from the left visual screen for incorporating it into the HSI Nav Display which will be downloaded into the system shortly.  Complete the check for green checkmarks off the GTN 750 screen.  When it is complete SOLO STATION DEVICES TEST will disappear.  The GTN 750 will boot up normally after the avionics master switch is turned on.  Remember, the Garmin 530W is the only avionics that does not come up with the avionics master switch.  It must be turned on separately by pushing the "C" knob once. 

Using your iPad for Geo Reference:  After the simulator you have chosen is up and running, look for this WiFi (not Bluetooth) connection on your tablet or iPhone:

 G-1000:  SOLOPRO-G1_570027_5G

 Solo A: SOLOPRO-A-530023_5G  

When asked for a password type: 2030405060 (same password for both simulators).  

If you are using Garmin Pilot:  SETTINGS>>Flight Simulation>Toggle on

If you are using ForeFlight:  MORE>Devices>Select PrePar3D>Slide enable Button ON

Now the airplane symbol will Geo reference on a Sectional, Low/High Altitude IFR Chart or Approach Chart

As always, if you have any squawks please detail the discrepancy on the blank page in the log folder, or contact Jack at 386-235-5797.