Interactive Quiz #48:
Basic Attitude Instrument Flight

Two different approaches to attitude instrument flying are "control and performance" and "primary and supporting." Many CFIIs favor one of these methods over the other, with the result that many pilots learn only one method. Knowledge of both methods gives a pilot more confidence while flying on the gauges, as each method reinforces the other. Irv Siegel's latest online quiz deals with the basics of both methods.

by Irv Siegel

Flying an aircraft solely by reference to the instruments is a skill that's acquired only after many hours of study and training, and one that fades rapidly when not utilized frequently. There are two basic methods used for attitude instrument flying: "Control and performance" and "primary and supporting." Many instrument flight instructors favor one of these methods over the other, with the result that many instrument students and instrument-rated pilots learn only one method. Knowledge of both methods, though, will give a pilot more confidence in his/her ability to control the aircraft by reference to the flight instruments, as each method reinforces the other. Irv Siegel's latest online quiz covers the basics of these two methods of aircraft control.