Dynon HDX First Time in IMC | Skyview IFR Instrument Approach to KWHP VOR-A | Overcoming IMC Nerves

I must overcome my IMC nerves on a first flight into instrument conditions with the Dynon Skyview HDX EFIS system. We fly from Camarillo to Whiteman and shoot the Whiteman VOR-A (KWHP) instrument approach in actual IMC (instrument meteorological conditions). I learn a lot on every flight and this one was no exception.
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*portions of flight and ATC communications have been edited or omitted. I am not a CFI. not for training use. for entertainment only.

[@BaronPilot]

Nice job. I really like that HDX!!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks! Me too- it’s awesome.

[@raulcartagena294]

Baron, because of this guy (Eric) I flew my Cherokee Six down to Saint Aviation from Denver, CO as well and picked one of them up. I thought of you guys while I was down there this past week. I just flew the bird back to Denver yesterday with the Dynon, Trutrak, and Avidyne systems freshly installed. Like my mechanic tells me, "it's only money, don't worry about it!" LOL

[@BaronPilot]

Raul Cartagena awesome!! I know you will love it! I’m sure you know how I feel about my Avidyne IFDs! 🍻

[@raulcartagena294]

@@BaronPilot Yes, the Avidyne is incredible. I also watched your videos since you first got it installed and introduced it to us. Let me know if you are ever in the Denver area so that I can take you to my restaurant (Jabanero's Mexican Grill) in Aurora, CO. Thanks for your videos also. All of you guys are my cable TV LOL.

[@BaronPilot]

Raul Cartagena not sure when I will be in the area but I look forward to when I am 👍🏼

[@1212films]

Not enough pilots talk about overcoming that overwhelming anxiety as you’re learning, and how to work through that. Thanks for sharing!

[@homomorphic]

Flying at 150+ mph with no forward visibility, is just always going to freak humans out. The learning process is learning to trust all of the abstract (to your autonomous nervous system) devices and procedures that will keep you safe in a situation that every fiber of your body is telling you is extremely dangerous.

[@as8005]

I could feel the IMC dread going down my spine just watching your facial expressions! Unfortunately there’s no cure for it, you can only try to manage it. During my instrument training, we lost the vacuum pump as I was setting up an LDA approach in low IFR (My CFII wrote a Kindle ebook about it!). That experience really scarred me but it was my single most valuable flight training lesson to this date. First, Don’t wait until you’re in the soup to transition to instruments. That sudden move from VMC to IMC is always unsettling. Second, focus on your breathing. Explore yoga breathing, it’s really effective (and I don’t even like yoga!) And finally, try to build as much actual IMC hours as you can. Flying under the hood just doesn’t have the same psychological effect of flying in actual IMC. Love the videos! Keep ‘em coming.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

SO many great tips in this comment Thank you!

[@RetiredPilot]

As an experienced pilot (over 18000 hours) it was interesting to watch your procedures. In IFR. Your autopilot is your friend and gives you the ability to better monitor rather than concentrating on hand flying. Very good job on a NPA also smart to bring along an observer on your first IMC actual flight. Having this video to review after is also very reassuring for you to understand your capabilities. One last thing good job at picking the right weather conditions to get your feet wet. Safe flying.

[@sandsrealestatewest663]

18K hours?! Holy F**K!

[@Mangobrain82]

@@sandsrealestatewest663 Pretty normal for a career pilot.

[@doctorgille]

My very first time in the left seat of a Piper Warrior during a "get hooked on airplanes" flight we departed from KSEE in the early afternoon, around 2pm and headed north to mess around a bit, scattered clouds that day so CFI Brian decided to climb and get high. We then headed NE and worked our way up to 9,000 feet, which in the Piper took a little while as that trusty IO360 labored her way up. We eventually leveled off, pulled back the power in glass-smooth air with sparkly sun and killer blue sky. I realized I had been kind of holding my breath all the way up, so I finally relaxed, settled into the seat, looked around, (basically because I had been flying the plane, for the first time in my life) and felt this euphoric wave of peace settle over me. I looked over at Brian and said something like "Wow...I get it, this is it, this is why..." trailing off in I don't know... first-time pilot/flying bliss. Brian paused for a moment then laconically said "Yup". Basically, because there was nothing more to be said. You don't know until you know. There's only one way to find out and that is to go there. Well, simply put, the hooks were set deeply and permanently. That was five years ago, and in my mind, five minutes ago. So I was high on aviation. Upon reflection, perhaps a bit low on O2 also, I had become very accustomed to breathing chunky SanDiego sea-level air, and popping up to 9,000 feet was a bit of a shock to the system. Maybe that was part of the plan. In any case, we were only going to be up for an hour - it was time to head home so we made a long right turn to the SW to head back to KSEE. Now if you have ever done west coast flying there's this thing called the "Marine Layer". We were looking down at a solid, and I mean solid floor of clouds. It took literally 20 minutes to move in from the coast and totally sock in everything. Of course, I'm still flying the plane. I glance and Brian and say "ummm, ok, clouds,...now what?".. He says "just hold this heading, start descending at 500 fpm, and give me that book in the pouch by your left leg"... He starts flipping pages looking for the KSEE IFR approach plate. Then he says "well, it looks like your first time up will also include an IFR approach and landing at Gillespie". I was like "COOL!, what do I need to do?" "Just fly the plane for now, while I do some radio work". Meanwhile, we're still descending and approaching the muck. I'm a little worried, but confident in Brian's abilities, and I hear over the radio that ATC gave us a new heading. Brian says "OK, time for me to fly, I have the plane". I reply "you have the plane". I sit back and watch him get really busy in a quiet business-like way. Then I look outside and everything goes gray and murky in an instant. At that moment, that very moment, I felt this huge wave of calm and peacefulness wash over me as the universe got small and intimate. The big crazy world and all its randomness went away and in an instant, I was in this little world that made total sense to me. I had all these fascinating steam gauges, (backed up by a byzantine Garmin GS430 full of mysteries) and it all was immensely reassuring. Not a worry or care at all. Honestly, I liked this part more than the VFR, because now I had total control, and could trust the instruments, instead of my eyes. It seems strange but that's how I felt. Instantly comfortable, and at home like this is where I was always supposed to be, and I never knew it, because how could I? You don't know until you know. We worked our way down through the various turns and approach points finally dropping below deck, perfectly lined up with 27R, not far ahead, with a stable rate of descent, flaps set, about 70kts. We landed. Tired, and energized, relieved and happy, as only you can feel after an IFR approach and landing. Five years ago, five minutes ago. I miss it, dearly.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I love this story. It is so well written. Thank you for sharing it. I hope one day soon you can get back in a plane and enjoy the sky again.

[@CessnaPilot99]

Great writing

[@flying107]

Extremely well written! Loved it!

[@bsapavel6880]

Great writing! I feel like I can relate, especially when I trained on glass avionics. I never had a problem with flying in IMC because I felt more comfortable keeping my attention inside. In fact, it was hard for me to do standard private pilot maneuvers at first because I kept my head in the plane!

[@tobin_ga3276]

Love the videos. I feel the same way when departing on a flight with IMC. Once I am in the soup, It takes me a minute or two (especially climbing into IMC vs. descending) to feel comfortable. Once I am comfortable, I feel a huge sense of accomplishment as a pilot at the end of a successful approach.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I'm right there with you. I guess that is one of the reasons I really love flying IFR/IMC. It is extremely rewarding.

[@martinpauly]

Great video, Eric! I really like how you visualize your route and reference points on the chart while you are talking to it. Makes it super-easy to follow along. Also, the set of the rainbow captured by the camera on the wing was great - almost makes me forget that I have panel envy after seeing yours! One question: I see you have an iPad with the approach plate; in this video you say you like how you can bring up plates on the Dynon. I always thought the iPad was hard to beat for showing charts - do you see advantages on the Dynon, or is it more of a backup in case you forget the iPad at home? Keep making these videos, you are doing great! - Martin

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for the comments Martin! Yes the iPad is great for displaying the plates and I still do pull up the plate on the iPad. The HDX has a very easy way to pull up the plate for your destination airport or any airport in the flight plan and I can do it with the knob instead of touch screen which I prefer over the iPad. The main advantage for me is that the HDX is not only georeferenced but displays the altitude crossing arc on the approach plate so you can see where on the plate you will arrive at your bugged altitude based on current descent rate and groundspeed. This is super handy on approaches to make sure you are arriving at the bugged altitude before a step down fix or your MDA before the MAP. Finally, I also like the plate to be right there in front of me and it is a closer scan for my eyes instead of looking all the way over at the iPad. It seems minor but makes a big difference. I am starting to keep the HDX plate zoomed in to the top portion and zoom and scroll the iPad plate to the elevation view of the altitudes. But I am still settling in to the workflow and preferences. I guess I will just have to fly more to fine tune it. :)

[@martinpauly]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey That makes sense - thank you for the detailed answer, and for the nice video!

[@raymondlaporte7306]

I control my breathing by inhaling and holding for two seconds and release and repeating till the anxiousness goes away. Works for me. Great videos

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Good tip thank you!

[@AlexTunstall]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey I think it'd called cycle breathing. Inhale for 4 secs. Hold 4 secs. Exhale 4 secs. Hold 4 secs. Repeat - it works really well for lowering heart rate, it's something we are taught in the service.

[@gvrose1]

That is a busy and intellectual flight. It is amazing how much more we learn by reviewing the flight video we made. Enjoy the skies!

[@scuddrunner1]

Agreed! I feel the same way flying into IMC. After a few minutes, it's like I'm not even moving. All my focus is in the airplane.

[@darrellhay]

If you didn't have the anxiety it would be unusual. Especially hand flying. I have a lot of time flying sixes in the soup in hard IFR, and I got that feeling every time (not specific to that aircraft)

[@konanoobiemaster]

just watching that gave me anxiety... and im not even a pilot

[@savagecub]

I got in the habit a long time ago of turning on pitot heat whenever I entered IMC regardless of temperature just to build in the muscle memory.

[@cpuwolf]

"we have ipad cheat" good job. Thank you

[@dennisd7292]

Love your channel....love your honesty!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks so much!

[@ooohmahglob4606]

I was surprised to hear that you as well get a sense of dread and have those thoughts of "I just want out" upon entering IMC initially. I too have faced this and it can be very intimidating, even though I know everything I need to know to stay safe. Thanks for being brave enough to admit that, it helps to know i'm not alone in that lol.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Glad it was helpful. It happens every time. I kind of like it because then each time it feels like an accomplishment when you overcome it. LOL

[@BogWraith1]

Outstanding video showing so much of what a pilot faces when in IMC. Instant subscribe!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you for the sub!!

[@danielking104]

One way to cheat and decrease your workload is use the FD. make the HDG/NAV or ALT changes the FD will guide your way.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I think you have to have the Dynon autopilot for the flight director to show up. Sadly it is not certified for the PA32 (yet?)

[@porgo61]

I have that same feeling and I'm even an IFR instructor. I dont think theres any real ways to deal with it other than knowing you are capable of what is to happen. Back when I first became an IFR pilot I loved it but after seeing so man accidents due to instrument failures etc it really got me worried for those days. Ignorance is bliss sometimes but doesnt prep you for what may happen. I make sure to always practice partial panel 1 time a week

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for sharing that. It's nice to know that even as a CFII you can get that feeling. Great note about practicing partial panel. I need to shut off the main screen and fly just with the backup D10A and compass as partial panel.

[@ednel1]

From a former pilot that never flew with flat panel electronics...How do you practice partial panel and malfunctions? Do you cover the whole panel and rely on one old style instrument that is a backup?

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

With this particular system, the main screen has a backup battery and the smaller screen on the left is an independent device with its own ahars and backup battery power. It has airspeed, altimeter, attitude, vsi, and turn coordinator. It does not have heading or a CDI. In the event the main screen goes down, I would use the small one (D10A), the vertical card compass for heading, and the CDI on the avidyne GPS unit and/or the rudimentary CDI on the Garmin SL30 radio. I also have the stratus 2 overhead ready to be powered and connected to iPad and it can give synthetic vision in a real emergency. The iPad has a backup of all the charts and plates that are on the main HDX system and it can receive independent traffic and weather through the stratus 2. iPad battery is always charged and so Is the stratus 2.

[@aurangzebahsan1]

glasses are beautiful......which brand mate????

[@TumaTime]

I am really enjoying your channel found it last week keep up the great videos stay safe out there

[@Sss12698]

Do you ever think your going to try and fly regional or for major airlines?

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

no, but i think i will get my commercial and CFI at some point when I have time. :)

[@Parr4theCourse]

Yep, right when I transition from VMC to IMC, I’ve started transitioning to gauges well in advance while still in VMC as that seems to make the actual transition less an issue.... Good job!!!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks!

[@Parr4theCourse]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Been catching up on your videos and just subbed this morning!!

[@dillonhopson4367]

I think us pilots should talk about things more. I love the Dynon systems. I think part of your feeling is being human and understanding the machine can kill if not respected

[@michaelnilsson4702]

Can I just say how amazing it is when you show the tower calls on a map!! Thank you!! I suck at radio communication and seeing what I’m hearing is amazing. Thanks again!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you for commenting on that. It is so great to know that this is useful and I should continue in the future. Thanks for watching!

[@badsanta69]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey Very useful!! Hardest part for me for some reason.

[@fr8fr6dr69]

My first time in IMC turned into an ILS to mins. Foggy, low overcast, a serious day, rainy, no convection. Even experienced "the leans" first-hand, overpowering spatial disorientation, a great lesson in staying on the gauges.

[@brooks3racing1]

I love how you overlay your clearance on the map for us. No one else does it and it’s such a great visual for student pilots. 👍

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for that specific feedback. It's great to know!

[@tt4570]

I was a student pilot back in 2012 and I was getting that dread feeling you are talking about just about every time I was going up. I was nearing my solo cross country flights and it just scared me too much. I never overcame my uncomfortableness and actually stopped flight training altogether. I miss it and wish I could have gotten over that hurdle.

[@ldeshner]

Having everything set up with your fmc and not looking out your side window at cloud's moving will help stop your anxiety getting into the zone on your instrumentation is key also knowing your terrain gives you a sense of confidence

[@rpcraighead]

Love your content! Funny about your initial anxiety... I have the same feeling scuba diving for the first minute or so. To be honest, I don't use my instrument rating. Still working on my CFI, then I'll delve in to it more, and then work on the double-I. I've never felt I've been proficient enough to go in to actual by myself. I'll be using my sim, and PilotEdge ATC to get more comfortable. It's an amazing tool...

[@Spec62]

As a "virtual safety pilot," that was probably one of the easiest IFR flights I have followed. Through your "thinking out loud," I was able to both view and hear each aspects of your phases of flight in order to stay ahead of the airplane. With this social distancing "thang" going on, I was able to pull up the chart before the flight. Once rolling, CRAFT and observing you as you transitioned through phases was really easy. Excellent video.

[@Jhardage62]

I look at the approaching IMC conditions and still want to crawl into the back seat but then convince myself I can't. It still scares me a fair amount and I guess it always should.

[@arsood2005]

Yes! I felt this anxiety for the first time in an accidental VFR into IMC situation. The feeling of dread and panic at first is overwhelming.

[@Viper-63]

Great video and yes on the dreading the thought of entering IMC and especially hand flying the aircraft and on old steam gauges...the worst. Once I punched my IFR ticket, every flight I took for 4 months was solid IFR end to end. However, much the same experience. Once in the IMC and settled down, I'd get in the zone and actually enjoy the flight. I enjoy the coverage of an IFR clearance that I pretty much always file IFR...and they close my flight plan 😋

[@JabariHunt]

@SoCal Flying Monkey Do you have an Avadyne 540 or 550? Does it integrate better with the Dynon HDX better than Garmin equivalents (GTN 650, etc)?

[@curtisaitken7027]

I’ve been told I’m odd. I know I’m odd. I feel more comfortable looking inside at the panel then looking outside. I completely trust the instruments. Even in VFR I plan and fly IFR. It takes out the guess work.

[@Swaggerlot]

Some of earliest flying experience was as a young guy in the right seat under IMC in various light and medium twins, a sort of almost human auto-pilot! I copped loads of shit from flying instructors later about my use of instruments and not using the visual horizon. I loved IMC and still love it.

[@kristensorensen2219]

You guys and your glass and autopilot. Wait til it all goes South and you are stuck in the 🗑🌪. I'm glad I did my serious IFR in the late 1970s. Flying new Cessna aircraft from the factory to Troutdale Oregon in the winter. Glad you are afraid. Fear is good. Deal with it the best way training. Lots of partial panel work and learn how to survive. Good luck!🤔😒😁😷💖 ERAU 1980 CFIA&I.

[@alexfrancis3603]

Omg bro yes yes I have the same damn feeling and I hate it! I thought it wasn't common. Thanks for sharing!

[@KC-pq2dr]

I have similar dread climbing into clouds. I believe my most anxious feelings come at climb while getting turn vectors. I have only flown with other instrument pilots so I really hope this anxiety dissipates as I begin my instrument training.

[@Pro2eus]

Maybe it's different in the States, but in the UK the ATIS and metar gives cloud levels at height above airfield and not altitude above sea level. In which case their ATIS would be about right

[@dant1724]

Your videos are Rad! Thank You! See you up in MMH.

[@CarlJohnson-dt9yf]

Thanks for the videos, it was a pleasure and is making up my mind to purchase the Skyview

[@aerofart]

From a physiological perspective, it makes sense that entry into IMC would feel like a bad thing. One minute we have all this sensory data to work with that assures us that we’re in good shape, and the next, our brains are cut off from that data and forced to channel data from sensors and interpret that data for the comfort that normally doesn’t come that way.

[@KrypticPatriot]

That was cool, thanks for taking us along on that trip. Your honesty really helps the shared experience, cheers!

[@guiduz3469]

Flying in IMC in a single engine piston aircraft should never be a choice

[@ruslanulko8195]

Cool! What is the total cost of having this beautiful plane?

[@regibson23]

I really like the human aspect of your channel. The mistakes you make and the emotions you're having are all part of the learning process, instead of something to be embarrassed about.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you. :)

[@wegmand]

I usually experience some initial anxiety as I enter the soup, but once there I find it easier to concentrate on the instruments without the visual distraction of an outside view. It actually has a calming effect on me - unless it's turbulent..

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Yes thats what I'm talking about! It's nice to know it's not just me. I flew from Seattle to L.A. once and about 3 hours of it was IMC and it was one of the best most relaxing flights ever. That was before I had an autopilot. It was the most stressed out I've been entering the muck but it ended up being great.

[@Callananphotography]

Best Channel for GA, love your talk throughout the video,, my vote for best New up and coming KZbinr. really down to earth explanations and experiences.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Wow, thank you! I truly appreciate the positive feedback.

[@CarlJohnson-dt9yf]

I would get that dread in IFR as well but as a VFR pilot I try to avoid it :-)

[@RJ9mech]

Great content so far. (I just reached your question about entering IMC.) I don't necessarily have a sense of dread, but this moment is the most intense part of any IFR flight into actual conditions for me. Like you, after a couple minutes of intense scanning, I relax into it and thoroughly enjoy the experience. I get more nervous climbing into a low cloud layer then when shooting an approach to mins. THIS is the critical moment of any IFR flight.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I agree. Climbing into IMC is the worst for me. If I am straight and level it is a lot easier. Descending into it is also a bit easier.

[@rollingthunder6215]

IMC dread means you are a safe pilot.......dont like getin uaself into trouble ....Good man!!!!.....i have 5k hours ATPL...

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I hope the feeling never goes away because it keeps me on my toes!

[@Adrianpw999]

Was that the 1NR controller ? It sounded like her.

[@mslman71]

Exact same response, especially the “I don’t want to be here” feeling but then settle in and love it.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

It's nice to know others have the same process!

[@cesarsoto4769]

I always get excited goin into IMC and when breaking out!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

It's just about my favorite kind of flying.

[@joeparx]

great videos. Just passed my written working on my instrument hours- I get the same feeling glad to hear it "goes away" lol

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

congrats on passing the written. The instrument rating is SO rewarding. Some equate the level of difficulty to passing the Bar.

I don’t know how many IMC hours you already have but your skills are excellent. As far as I am concerned, with my nearly 300 hours in IMC (with more than 1500 total time) I am still always focused on instruments each time that I fly in IMC. In my case it is not stress but a state of maximum concentration to remain very vigilant on the conditions encountered (temperature, icing, engine, ...). It is perfectly normal in the clouds to experience a different sensation. It is this situational awareness that keeps your ability to make relevant decisions and which keeps you alive. Fly safe 🛩😎

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for the compliment and the comment. I do love the concentration that is required for this type of flying. Its really fun!

[@ldsmacs2011]

LOL...At 8:34 you stated 30,500 ft. instead of 3.500 ft....LOL. We too are putting in the HDX. Just about done with the install. Great video.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

hope you like your HDX. I have really been enjoying mine. If you haven't seen my complete review you may find it helpful. kzbin.info just scroll right and its the HDX review.

[@BirdyinBOI]

When I enter IMC it feels like time stops and I’m safely wrapped in a womb! 🤔

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Once I settle in there is an amazing calm and coziness to it- you are so right!

[@MissionaryBushPilot]

Very beautiful plane! What camera are you using?

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

GoPro Hero7 Black, Insta360 One X, Red Monstro in this video. On others I have also used the DJI Osmo Pocket and Sony A7s2.

[@MissionaryBushPilot]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey cool thx

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

No problem. I would not stress too much about having a certain camera. Any go pro from the 5 on up is good and the DJI action camera that is their competitor to the GoPro is also decent for these types of videos.

[@MissionaryBushPilot]

@@SoCalFlyingMonkey right now I'm borrowing 4 cameras from friends and using my 2 myself. 😁

[@aliqalbani321]

Very Nice love it 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@careersteer6497]

Nice job! Totally normal "errors" on that approach. Didn't hear your landing checklist though... excellent situational awareness and a beautiful plane. Thanks for the video!

[@multitieredinvestor183]

Trust my instruments feeling secure.

[@toddw6716]

Great video, know the feeling

[@mktwatcher]

Good video. Your honesty on your initial feelings upon entering IMC are appreciated. Thank you for sharing.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for the comment. I appreciate it!

[@skipdreadman8765]

I get IMC dread watching KZbin videos of IMC operations.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Haha.

[@bagels377]

My first time in IMC was awesome. I was smiling the whole time

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

it is fun for sure. :)

[@bobwanmorgan9906]

Great dramatic editing during your confession of feeling dread entering IMC. Yes I have felt that anxiety upon IMC.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

always good to know im not alone on this one!

[@johnshepler7417]

Could you tell what the glass consist of? I'm about to upgrade a PA28-140 and it will need to be IFR equipped. What radios are you using to load the approaches with? I recently flew a VFR flight from KMOB to C77 using the dynon XDF but it was not IFR equiped. Thanks. Awesome video BTW.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I have a couple videos on my channel that cover the HDX and TruTrak autopilot and audio panel. The GPS is the Avidyne IFD540

[@BH195829]

100%…. The feeling goes away by flying IFR every week…. there is no other cure. If you can’t do that - raise your personal minimums…. No HARD IFR.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

we dont get that much actual IMC here and I try to seek it out. :)

[@spinf0rk]

Wow, I’ve yet to fly a VOR approach with a turn at the VOR. That’s tricky. At LWM near my old home airport there’s an approach with the VOR 1.5 nm from the threshold on final and this can also be quite tricky as you’re in the cone of confusion quite close to the runway. I know what you mean about the feeling of adjusting/apprehension upon entering IMC, it does go away quickly though, and I find the more I fly in actual the quicker it goes away.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

yeah I really dont like that turn at the VOR in the cone of confusion. Makes for total inaccuracy right at the time your really want accuracy!

[@JoshuaWheaton]

So, this gets a lot of folks - but cloud heights ceilings (OVC is a ceiling) on ATIS are in AGL. So, the ATIS was only off by about 200 ft. Ref the AIM 7-1-16: Reporting of Cloud Heights Ceiling, by definition in the CFRs and as used in aviation weather reports and forecasts, is the height above ground (or water) level of the lowest layer of clouds or obscuring phenomenon that is reported as “broken,” “overcast,” or “obscuration,” e.g., an aerodrome forecast (TAF) which reads “BKN030” refers to height above ground level. An area forecast which reads “BKN030” indicates that the height is above mean sea level. REFERENCE- AIM, Paragraph 7-1-30 , Key to Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) and Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR), defines “broken,” “overcast,” and “obscuration.”

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

You are correct that the cloud heights for ATIS are in AGL. The ATIS in this case was to be overcast 2500 which means cloud bases should be at 3500 feet MSL because the field elevation is 1000' MSL. The cloud bases in reality were at 2300' MSL. You are not the first person to make this comment so I think something in the way I present the information in the video is confusing. I need to go back and look to see where I can improve on that communication. Thank you for the comment!

[@russiandrivers9986]

I don't get any anxiety flying into IMC, but that's probably because it's just flight simulator

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

haha yeah that's probably why!

[@thomasfreiesleben]

Nice video. Thanks!

[@glastar-rv6xv]

2 questions if you allow ;) is that display on the far reight the IFD100? The maps on the HDX are they loaded via the Avidyne or the HDX plates? Nice video like it!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

The display on the far right is an iPad and I run Foreflight or the IFd100 app. HDX maps and plates are loaded via Seattle avionics and dynon databases. VFR and IFR Approach Charts are $99/yr and the Dynon database is free.

[@vienpajophotography7933]

Hello. Your videos are both very inspiring and educational. I'm new to Aviation and begin flight training for PPC Winter 2022. I was wondering if I can send you a message to ask about advice since I also am concerned about safety and flying my family (also with plane purchase). Thank you. Hoping for your kind consideration.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

did you already message me on Instagram? @socalflyingmonkey

[@stevearrington814]

what did it cost you for the AutoPilot, equipment and install? 10K?

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

the AP and Dynon system was 26k or so...

[@danasampson818]

I own a steam gauge Cherokee 180, with an old Apollo IFR enroute GPS. I use my iPad with ForeFlight. My few times in actual IMC have been intense and exhausting. I can see that even a simple autopilot can greatly reduce workload. Ya, my hands started sweating a bit when you first went IMC. That Dynon/Avidyne system with the Tru Track looks awesome.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

It's a great system. Having flown without an autopilot in hours of continuous IMC I can definitely say that an autopilot is a great asset. The TT does well to reduce workload.

[@tedc6694]

I feel EXACTLY like that when entering imc. I've found staring hard at the instruments as I approach the clouds keeps my seat dry. Wearing a ball cap like a practice hood while in the clouds keeps me more calm too. Haha I thought I was the only one. Thanks for sharing. Cheers

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

yeah wearing a hat and using the brim to block out the changing light/picture out the window can be helpful!

[@owreese]

I see the HDX is showing 118ktns at 6k. Is that 75% cruise, 65%? I need a family hauler too but haven't flown one of those. Also, we have "small bladders" in my crew.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I see about 133 knots TAS lean of peak at 12.1-12.4 gph in cruise (thats usually around 60% power). Rich of peak around 15gph for 140 knots TAS. I had pulled power way back in this video for fuel economy and to spend some more time in IMC and handle the approach.

[@blakepurdy6503]

How did you configure your Dynon Skyview HDX to have IFR charts and be able to fly IFR? I can't see were to enable this on mine.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I don’t know if there is anything you need to enable but you do need a chart subscription from Seattle avionics. They do not have Canadian charts available for the HDX but if you are in the US I think the sub is $99/year. They charts reside on the usb drive that must be constantly connected to the HDX while you want access to the charts.

[@ellnegro]

Yes sir flying in IMC is no joke specially if you've been a VFR pilot for any length of time.. I personally think all aircraft and Pilots should be instrument rated.. as we all know what the kobe incident inadvertent IMC will kill you....

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I think its a good rating to get and the private pilot curriculum should have MUCH more hood time to prepare for inadvertent VFR to IMC

[@MagicBiscuitShow]

What a sweet sky sled you have there, Air Monkey... . : +)

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Air Monkey - I like that!

[@warrboo]

I was a CFI/II/MEI, and airline pilot for a very long time, and have been flying A320/21’s at my current airline for over 15 years and the proud owner of a PA32/300 (although east coast style, yo;) I STILL have pucker factor in the clouds when I’m by myself in my airplane. (010ovc is my personal min in my Cherokee)I think that will never go away for you. It hasn’t for me. Great videos!! My 13year old son and I love them and have been a subscriber.

[@ellnegro]

And awesome videos and awesome commentary and airplane looks great...

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks a ton!

[@BatiBat0o]

Subscribed after watching your video. I really liked how you explain things during the flight, many other videos do not and for us who are planning on going to school makes alot of difference. Keep them videos coming. Also, that HDX is awesome. I was all excited seing everything it can do

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Glad you liked it. Yeah the HDX is great! Lovin it!

[@ZachTate]

Your friend is a great addition to the cockpit. I need a duplicate friend for my IFR flights! haha Loved the video.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thanks for watching! It's fun flying with friends especially if they love it as much as you do. :)

[@kellyem8172]

its a big deal! congrats! situational awareness is much better now that we have all those pictures on the instrument panel. I took my instrument in 1995 with JC Brown, the 86 year old CFI who gave Orville Wright his check ride in a DC3. (i kid you not). My oral was invaded by the FAA, AND MY ORAL took four hours. By the time the joker from the FAA had departed, the weather started to deteriorate. So we got half way through it and all of sudden we were solid IFR (which aint supposed to happen) So i flew the ILS down to 100 feet, had controllers screaming at me, did a VOR APPROACH, NBD, and did everything to perfection except a certain procedure turn AT THE END. it was a mess. At the end, JC Brown told me it was a pleasure flying with me, which was a high compliment. The key thing is proper planning. The more you understand before you kick the tires, the more relaxing it will be. So my first actual was my CHECKRIDE. GOOD LUK!

[@nealhere]

Well. I got rusty. Was not that heavily experience even then. Last time in imc had unfamiliar panel that had small number size. Coming toward faf got disoriented within the approach . Thought i was farther along and got below the mda. But was below the cloud layer liked being able to see out. But still to low for approach and had to tell myself to climb which put me back in the clouds. Eeeek. Made it to faf then then able to safely descend back below the cloud layer and safe on the ground. Phew! Take aways: Practice ( like you) with panel in vfr hood to learn the panel. Better brief on approach. Keep the rust off. Take a safety pilot Good topic good video. Love Camarillo All the best neal Punta Gorda Fla.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Good advice here. Practice is essential. You can be current but not proficient.

[@JPToto]

That was SUPER educational and thanks for showing a "real life" flight where your route wasn't perfect and you had to make some compensations. Good pacing in your video too. Well done as always!

[@StefBelgium]

Never had that feeling. I m a PPL SEP VFR only...I ve stopped flying since 3 years now. But when I was still flying, I used to take a friend of mine who was checking for traffic outside while I willingly blocked my view in front of the plane to simulate IMC. I did a lot of approaches back to my home airport on ILS. I m a child of flight simulation so had a bad habits of flying with instruments when I started my PPL training so I struggled initally keeping my eyes outside susprisingly. But when it came to instruments flying, it felt natural to me because I simply trusted my instruments and forgot all my other senses just focusing on the instruments and relying them is the best thing you could do and you did it well. Thanks for this great video....love it!

[@kellyhouseholder6737]

Eric, excellent video. Nice editing and love how you talk about your anxiety that we all get when we don't do this as the day job. Thanks for sharing. It is very interesting to see how your setup and workflow is compared to garmin stack.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

Thank you! I would be curious to fly with a Garmin system and understand the finer points of each system

[@kellyhouseholder6737]

SoCal Flying Monkey I don’t have the Garmin AP yet but I have a student who does. I’ll see if I can get it setup for a video

[@MrDejast]

I may limit my flying time, but my rules are: sunny days only.

[@colinrasmussen9470]

MrDejast whatever you feel comfortable with and safe is always the right decision.

[@stephenrobinson8250]

I'm still working on my IFR. Is what the controller says at 11:08 necessary? Seems to me the "circle east of the airport" could be a bit confusing since once you pas over the field you are now north of the field. Why not just say cross overhead the field and join a left downwind for runway 12? Feedback welcome as I am still in the learning phase.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I usually get the handoff to tower right at the FAF where the turn is and it makes for a super heavy workload. Start timer, twist the heading bug, turn to 046, throttle back, descend, swicth frequencies, contact tower and then get THIS clearance that makes you do some mental gymnastics on top of what you are already dealing with. I think your direction would be easier in that time but this is their standard phraseology. I have come to expect it and I think on any cricling instrument approach it is really good to think about what you MIGHT get from the tower or what youre most likely to want to do. Reading notes about the approach, looking at the terrain on charts (preferably before the flight) and figuring out what the most likely and best options are seem to be the key. For instance, this approach has you almost perpendicular to the airport and the winds favor runway 12 according to the atis. So you know you are going to circle and make either left or right traffic for 12. The runway is a left pattern here so that is most likely. Looking at this on the ground prepares you for what to expect. But I definitely agree with you. Best of luck on the instrument training. It was such a fun and challenging and rewarding rating!

[@manjithadiasabeyesinghe6533]

Really enjoyed your video. I think you did a good job on the VOR-A approach. I had similar experiences into KPOC and it was IMC the whole time from KLGB to KPOC (ILS), got vectored around many times so spatial disorientation is real and these video's are a great example. Was flying CE-172SP G1000 but felt hypoxic without seeing a horizon. At a situation when I should have gone missed floating down the runway I choose to land coz my brain couldn't handle the missed approach. Its always safe to fly with another pair of eyes let alone another pilot.

[@savagecub]

Whaaaaaaat ? IMC in SoCal ?

[@Ragtime456]

Brief, brief and brief. My dread pretty much ended when someone explained anxiety is really just facing the unknown. With IMC I worried that I would be overwhelmed if I didn't prepare for the variables. So I started looking at all the most likely scenarios (yes there are a few of them) but.... you learn what to expect because there is still only so many things a controller can throw at you. I think that is where a little arrogance can be a good thing. If you know you honestly briefed the flight and did it correctly its fair to approach it with a bit of bravado. The secret is to do enough different approaches to keep it fresh and interesting and learn the possibilities so you have a expanded tool set in your brain. All this became fact to me when I have on occasion failed to brief the flight and that anxiety sneak in because I rushed it and knew it. I didn't brief so i didn't know what to expect. IFR is now more of a serious Game and interesting to see what surprises happen.

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

You have some good points here. I think knowing what to expect was a huge part of catching on to IFR flying.

[@jeffallen2948]

I owned a racehorse named Suana. She was named after that waypoint and was bred by famous aviator Allen Paulson. Great video and nice panel!

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

I'm going to think of that every time I cross that waypoint! LOL

[@camh7788]

I get the exact same feeling as I climb into cloud. I hate it....... especially when the windshield goes white with ice. I begin to feel better after a while and once in control airspace I’m fine...

[@SoCalFlyingMonkey]

stay away from that ice!