Time to brush up on my approaches

[chrisk]

It's been a while since I have hand flown an approach.  I usually let the auto pilot do the hard work (heading mode only).

 

This weekend I hand flew a few approaches.  Toss in a bad controller (turning me to close to the FAF on an ILS ), some bumpy weather, and a bit of a rusty pilot.   I was humbled.  I'll be doing some more hand flying next weekend. 

[John Pleisse]

Hey Chris...at least you can get some actual down there....you know Maryland, well. Good on ya.

[FlyWalt]

There are just too many people, myself included, who rely on that trusty autopilot and the hand skills seem to go by the wayside. Hats off to you for putting it aside and working out the "hand bugs".

 

But do remember, that the autopilot is a trusty safety tool that has its role in helping you manage a busy flight deck.

 

My two cents,
W

[Bob - S50]

Good on you.  Hand flying is always good practice.  If you really want to challenge yourself, try raw data (no flight director).

 

Bob

[rbp]

I think its important to balance staying not just current but capable, with using the A/P to reduce pilot workload. Low and/or night IFR approaches are very challenging (esp NPAs, circling, etc) and you have to be up to the task. But you also want to use the automation to reduce your workload to increase safety. And using the autopilot doesn't relieve you of the responsibility for flying the plane.

[cliffy]

Ran into this many times when a Check Airman for a couple of airlines. We called them 'sutopilot cripples) and anyone can fall into the trap. From the Ace of the Base to the bottom flyer.

I tried real hard not to fall into that trap by hand flying each 3rd approach. Another factor is that we flew 30 or more approaches each month. Many of us now do not (me included).

As my actual IFR time and IMC approaches are just a fraction of what they were my own mins and limitations take over,

Another very real factor to consider is the gradual decline in cognitive response as we go past 62 - 65 years of age. It's different in each individual but it is there in one form or another

[Jerry 5TJ]

...it is the "Children of the Magenta Line" effect.

http://n631s.blogspot.com/2011/11/children-of-magenta-line.html

[moodychief]

What is an autopilot?

[Marauder]

What is an autopilot?

[ryoder]

You guys beat me to my post! I was going to ask what an autopilot is and also post that pic.

[moodychief]

I thought the picture was of Otto pilot. I didn't see a cigarette so I guess he gets that after flying the approach??!

[carusoam]

Some are named George...

http://fly.historicwings.com/2012/08/george-the-autopilot/

Otto's older cousin?

-a-