– Paul Southwick
Garmin is offering a single screen, PC-capable, version of its Garmin Integrated Flight Deck (GIFD) trainer software for a range of modern aircraft, for just US$49.95.
Thanks to Garmin Australia, I was able to get hold of a copy of the US version to test out at home.
It was easy to install and no side stick was required as I used the autopilot or flight director. There were just a few keys to master, like CTRL up or down, for throttle and the mouse is used to select soft keys – just like on the real aeroplane.
Using the SR22 Garmin Perspective version, I set myself up at CA35 (or San Rafael) and conducted multiple IFR flights with different instrument approaches into Napa (KAPC), Half Moon Bay (KHAF), Merced (KMCE), and even Columbia (O22). All US IFR approach and airport charts are included. For Aussie versions, users can use their EFB charts or download paper versions for free from Airservices Australia.
I projected the “sim” onto my large screen TV. I became addicted and “really there.” It’s so realistic and definitely the cheapest instrument flying going during lockdown!
I don't think I'll be entering this time in my logbook, but for sure I not only maintained instrument currency, but also became proficient at each of the approaches, which I will fly for real in the US when we can travel again. But I had better get onto the Simulate Failures section first, as my US instructor Eliot Floersch has promised what he calls “advanced IFR.”
The USB version can be obtained from Garmin aviation dealers – just select the version for your aircraft.