Practical tips, scenarios, and tools for IFR pilots : IFR Focus

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Keep your IFR skills sharp with real-world monthly Mastery scenarios

May 22, 2026

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Instrument flying proficiency isn’t built from memorizing procedures alone—it comes from regularly exercising your judgment in realistic situations. That’s exactly the goal behind IFR Mastery from PilotWorkshops, now available inside the Sporty’s Pilot Training app.

Practical IFR: Mix and Match

May 19, 2026

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As an aviation writer, I’m always on the prowl for interesting approach charts (so if you have a favorite, drop me a line). One that recently appeared in my email was the ILS or LOC Rwy 27 at Williamsport, Pennsylvania (KIPT). The striking curiosity was plan view note, “RNAV 1-GPS or RADAR AND DME REQUIRED.” The investigation yielded a longer explanation than I expected. Too bad I don’t get paid by the word.

Quiz: IFR Cross-Country Planning

May 15, 2026

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IFR cross-country planning pulls together a lot of moving parts—altitudes, airways, terrain, weather requirements, and a careful reading of the regulations and charts that tie it all together. Whether you’re planning a short hop under a busy terminal area or a longer enroute segment over unfamiliar terrain, the decisions you make before departure often matter as much as anything you do in the air.

A New Take on Alternates

May 12, 2026

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Thunderstorms don’t always follow the forecast, and a traditional IFR alternate may not be enough when plans change quickly. In this article, Elaine Kauh introduces the concept of “safe havens”—a more flexible way to think about diversions that prioritizes options, fuel, and reduced stress in the cockpit.

Video Tip: Flying with Datalink Weather

May 8, 2026

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Weather is one of the biggest advantages of modern IFR flying—but only if you understand what you’re really looking at. Datalink weather has transformed the cockpit, putting radar, METARs, and forecasts right at your fingertips. But not all datalink weather is created equal. In this video tip, we’ll break down the two primary sources—ADS-B and SiriusXM—highlight how each system delivers its information.

How to Choose the Best Alternate Airport for Your IFR Flight: A Pilot’s Guide

May 5, 2026

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Keep an eye on the weather as you approach the destination, using both ADS-B datalink weather, and by tuning in the local ATIS/AWOS on the radio. If it looks like the weather will be near the minimums for the approach, it is time to start thinking about what the best alternate airport will be based on the current weather. If it still looks like the planned alternate is the best option, go for it.

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