Entries by IFR Focus Team

IFR Focus Video: SmartCharts in Action on a June Gloom Flight

/by

Veteran instructor and author Bruce Williams takes us along on an IFR flight from Bellingham, WA (KBLI) to Bremerton (KPWT) in his Bonanza, using Garmin SmartCharts in the Garmin Pilot app. This quick 30-minute hop showcases how SmartCharts declutter complex procedures—like the KLSHN TWO RNAV departure—and make it easier to visualize key information in real time. Along the way, Bruce flies the RNAV (GPS) RWY 20 approach through the clouds, offering practical tips on procedure loading and approach setup.

Instrument Maneuver Spotlight: Radar Vectored Instument Approach

/by

When ATC takes control of your headings and altitudes, precision and anticipation are key. In this spotlight, we’ll cover how to fly an instrument approach using radar vectors from ATC—maintaining communication discipline, staying ahead of the airplane, and managing configuration and speed changes.

Quiz: Preflight Planning an IFR Flight

/by

There are many details to consider when planning a flight under Instrument Flight Rules. Mix in some inclement weather, and the workload increases exponentially. Answer all these questions correctly and prove you have the keys to unlock a successful IFR flight.

Video Tip: How to Fly an LPV Approach with a Garmin GTN 650

/by

For many IFR pilots today, flying a GPS approach is second nature. Among the most capable options is the LPV approach, which offers ILS-like lateral and vertical guidance—but with far wider availability. Thanks to WAAS-enabled GPS, pilots can fly precision-style approaches at thousands of airports that don’t have an ILS installed.

Instrument Maneuver Spotlight: Instrument Takeoff

/by

When the weather’s down and the runway is disappearing into the clouds, you can’t rely on outside references to stay on centerline and maintain control. That’s where the instrument takeoff comes in. In this maneuver spotlight, we’ll break down the step-by-step technique for conducting a safe and precise instrument takeoff

Ask the IFR Expert: When Can You Legally Log an Instrument Approach?

/by

Under 14 CFR §61.57(c), instrument-rated pilots need to log at least six IAPs every six months to stay current and act as PIC under IFR or in weather below VFR mins. But not every approach counts—what matters are the conditions under which you fly it. Based on FAA guidance (InFO 15012), here’s the breakdown on what makes an IAP “loggable.” 

Quiz: Flying with ADS-B Weather and Your iPad

/by

The free datalink weather component of the ADS-B network has become a necessity for IFR pilots flying with portable ADS-B receivers. Test your knowledge of the system components and limitations in this latest quiz.

Video Tip: Getting Started in Your Instrument Training

/by

Adding an instrument rating will greatly expand the utility of your Private certificate and allow you to fly on days when the visibility is low and the cloud layers are close to the ground. In this tip, we’ll explain the steps you’ll need to follow to earn your instrument rating and the new procedures and knowledge you’ll learn along the way.

Instrument Maneuver Spotlight: Flight Deck Check—Flight Instruments

/by

Before an IFR flight, the cockpit setup and check for flight instruments is more than just a box to check—it’s your first line of defense against in-flight surprises or emergencies. This systematic preflight review verifies that each required instrument is not only present and functional, but operating within acceptable limits.