The Isolated Aviator

Entertainment − and even flying practice − for the grounded pilot

- Eugenio Facci

While lock-down and private flying restrictions were being eased as this edition of Pilot went to press, restarting GA looks set to be a gradual process and many of us will continue to seek alternative entertainment− and perhaps even a bit of ‘homeschooling’. The Assistant Editor continues with his virtual test flying of simulators−one way of keeping the mind active and staying current, at least when it comes to procedure and overall airmanship, if not providing a true feel for the controls.

Infinite Flight simulator

With ATC and many aircraft models, Infinite Flight is good for fun flying and to practise workload management

“Bournemouth Tower, N505MU left downwind Runway 08, touch and go.” “N505MU you are number three in the circuit, report turning base.” I slow down to 80kt, lower the flaps to 10° and look out on my left for an XCub that I’m following. It’s a sunny spring afternoon with a brisk south-easterly and I’m flying circuits at Bournemouth airport with three other aircraft.

Brakes off, fuel sufficient, engine instruments check, seatbelts secured. I need to extend downwind before turning base because the Cub is quite slow−I’m in a Cessna 172. But at the same time, I’m followed by a Spitfire (yes, a Spitfire) so I don’t want to slow him down either.