Help!

[avbug]

I have never taught, and don't use, 70 degree this or that to get into a hold. I turn the shortest way to the outbound heading, and start time. One there I have at least a minute to figure out where I want to go. It's only a matter of deciding which way to turn back to the inbound course. No math or calculation is required.

Moreover, I don't attempt to figure out what kind of entry to use, and don't teach a student to do that either. Whatever looks right for the entry is what gets used. Calculations over.

Mental gymnastics only complicate things in the cockpit. It's rather like flying an NDB approach. One can figure relative bearing and account for wind correction and all other manner of voodoo. However, when all is said and done, one turns toward the pointy end of the needle, and stays pretty much there. If the pointy end moves, you move a little more, and then back some. Problem solved, and it always works. Far less distraction, especially for someone shooting a single pilot approach.

Keep it simple.

 

[alimaui]

I

Moreover, I don't attempt to figure out what kind of entry to use, and don't teach a student to do that either. Whatever looks right for the entry is what gets used. Calculations over.



Keep it simple.

Check Pilot:Thank you Miss F. You may turn aruond, get the atis and go back to Melbourne.

Me: Huh??

Check Pilot: Yes, we generally use standard teardrop entry for that type of pattern.

Me: Well, that looked right....and avbug said....

Check Pilot: Well although avbug said....Wait! Who is avbug?? AND anywya, yes it did look right, but here at the FAA we want you to jump through hoops. You must do everything by the book, in the most difficult and complicated manner. In the future you must use either parallel, direct or teardrop entry. Perhaps then you will be permitted to finsih your checkride.

Ali


Exaggeration...but you get the point

 

[bobbysamd]

It's not that exaggerated

The real world is different. Avbug knows the real world well. I had my ATP examiner show me and made me execute a teardrop entry to holding that he cooked up after I opted, correctly, for parallel. I knew of an instructor who came up with a teardrop type of procedure turn instead of the FAA standard procedure turn to 45 degrees, go out one minute, reverse and intercept the inbound, etc.

Look at your Instrument PTS. It quotes as references the AIM and Instrument Flying Handbook. Also, IAPs. FAA pubs are the FAA's last word on the procedures should be followed. Although the examiner might think it should be done differently, or you think it should be done differently, or your instructor thinks it should be done differently, the examiner has to pass you if you did it by the book and to standards.

So many people get in pi$$ing contests over how they do things as opposed to the "book." The book is always right, if not the best or easiest way. Just do it by the book and get your rating.

 

[Ned]

holding

Two suggestions...

1) Have your student do some holds not under the hood on a vfr day when you can see the VOR. It makes a lot more sense to students when they can see outside, see the VOR, and see how everything looks. It will probably solve his trouble with situational awareness.

2) It really doesn't matter what kind of entry you do. The FAA has recommended procedures. Not required, just explain what the protected side of the hold is, and why you should stay there.