An Instructor’s Guide to Using Desktop Flight Simulators

Today, pilots are faced with a new and challenging era of glass cockpit general aviation aircraft, innovative aircraft design, advances in avionics technology, and changes to instrument procedures and airspace. Students are more technically savvy. Therefore with time/money always at a minimum, a demand exists for highly skilled flight instructors who know the best teaching methods for flying IFR.

Teaching Confidence in the Clouds offers real-life application of computer desktop flight simulators and flight training devices (PCATDs and Basic ATDs) as they relate to current methods of instrument training. Since they were first adopted in 1997, FAA-approved desktop flight simulators have been an effective means to train students. The scenario-based training concepts, training assignments, and instructor tips included in this book will be a valuable resource for flight instructors and help reduce the number of hours needed to complete an instrument training program.

John A. Teipen, MCFI, MGI, DPE and 2005 FAA National Flight Instructor of the Year says...

"The excellent airline safety record is partly due to the consistent use of simulators to teach pilot proficiency in various flight conditions and emergency situations. But it takes more than a simulator and an instruction book to attain an excellent safety record. Tom Gilmore's Teaching Confidence in the Clouds should be included as standard equipment with every desktop flight simulator sold. It goes beyond the basics to provide the information needed to use the simulator as an effective flight training device. Tom easily guides the reader through the background, tools, and techniques to build effective simulator-aided training scenarios. General Aviation can surely benefit from this guidance to encourage more consistent use of simulators to build pilot proficiency in various flight conditions and emergency situations."