Question on glass vs classic panels.

[brucek]

I'm currently doing my instrument in a C172SP (nothing like the machines you all here get to fly ). You recall this I'm sure, basic instrument panel, etc.

I find MicroSoft Flight Simulator quite good at simulating instrument flight (it sucks for a private student), although I can't log it. I also have some add-ons, including a B727 (classic panel) and a rather detailed B767 (glass). While I could never claim to be able to fly either in reality, I find I get very busy in the classic panel simulation (not unlike the C172, but it's all happening faster), where the B767 panel is so much easier.

It begs the question from you heavy drivers out there: Those that fly (or have flown) both (I'm sure everyone has flown a "classic" panel sometime, even if it's just a trainer); do you prefer the challenge of the classic or the convenience (maybe safety too?) of the glass?

Most likely a wierd question, but thought I'd ask it anyway. Thanks,

Bruce.
BJC, Jeffco, CO

 

[ACWild]

There are different degrees of quality as far as the "classic" panels go. For instance, the attitude indicator in a large aircraft is pretty stable and precise as opposed to some of the Cessna ones. Then again, a Cessna is alot more forgiving to minor pitch changes.
I like all the bells and whistles in a glass display, but find that alot of the extra info on it is not necessary. I've heard that Southwest configures all their EFIS to a "steam gauge" configuration.

 

[mackinho's]

I prefer EFIS. It is bigger, easier to see heading or pitch changes. Large airplanes and their instruments are both much more stable, too, than small airplanes and their steam gages.

I think Flight simulator is harder to fly than real airplanes. It has some value for practicing approaches, but real airplanes are easier.

If you think you get too busy shooting approaches in small airplanes, you need to narrow down your scan once the airplane is set up and you've started your approach.

 

[TurboS7]

Still basic scan with glass, attitude, heading, altitude, you are just scanning one instrument(PFD)vs. threee.

 

[DoinTime]

When I am hand flying I prefer to have multiple instruments (steam gauges or twin tube EFIS systems) to look at....its keeps my eyes moving and my head thinking. Its real easy to get into the full EFIS stare and end up noding off. However, when the auto pilot is on, the chair is pulled back, and I'm reading the USA Today its nice to have the scan minimized so I can maximize reading time.