Exclusive: Secrets Behind The EAA Pilot Proficiency Center
Our source’we’ll call him ’Deep Sim’’spilled the beans on the coolest pilot experience at AirVenture this side of the actual flight line
Plane & Pilot got a sneak preview of some of the cool high-tech additions to the EAA Pilot Proficiency Center at Oshkosh visitors will see there. The PPC, for those of you who aren't familiar with it, is a full-service learning center for pilots wanting to sharpen their flying skills. As in years past, the big, air-conditioned temporary building will feature walls of Redbird flight simulators loaded with both IFR and VFR scenarios that will challenge pilots to fly well and make good judgment calls along the way.
When they show up to fly, pilots will self-brief for their mission or brief with an instructor---both NAFI and SAFE provide volunteer instructors for the center, and the instructors who participate are some of the very best in the business. On the flight, the instructor will be there to assist with the operation of the sim as well as with the scenario itself. Afterward, pilots can debrief with their CFI or head next door to Redbird to debrief on one of their machines in their big tent using some cool new Redbird technology. Pilots will also be able to check out the latest in Redbird artificial intelligence in a new product, the details of which won't be revealed until the opening day of AirVenture.
In addition to the flying, the PPC will feature a wealth of forums directed specifically at helping pilots hone their skills. Topics include using glider pilot strategies to be a safer powered airplane pilot, how to maintain situational awareness in IMC, strategies for keeping sharp at home, and obstacle departure procedures.
Sponsors of the EAA Pilot Proficiency Center includeHartzell Propeller,Jeppesen,Redbird Flight, Plane & Pilot,AOPA,Community Aviation,Independence Aviation,Mindstar Aviation,National Association of Flight Instructors,PilotEdge,Pilot Workshops and the Society of Aviation and Flight Educators.
Hope to see you at the PPC!
Learn more at EAA.
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