Andrew Sarangan writes:

VFR to Aspen is really not a big deal.

Every time I've tried it in simulation (which uses real-world weather), it
seems like I'm confronted with IMC at some point. I figure this must have to
do with the mountains and all. It was clear just now, however, but I was IFR.

From the west, follow the valley from Carbondale. It is trickier from
the east. Independence pass is not recommended because it has many alleys
and blind canyons that can become a trap. A better route is Hagermann pass
to Rudi reservoir, and then turn south.

Thanks. I'll try that on my next flight, weather permitting. I assume all
these spots are marked on the sectional.

Coming from the east it seems to be quite a steep hike over the mountains.
The Baron twin will do it, although it's not happy about it. I haven't tried
in a single-engine plane. Of course I must take plenty of virtual oxygen with
me.

I have never flown IFR to Aspen. The MEA's are too high for the
airplanes I fly.

I had a hard time understanding the plate for the LOC/DME approach, especially
since it says "fly visual" at the bottom. And there are apparently no STARs.

I was happy to note today that it seemed a lot easier to land at KASE than it
did a few hundred hours of flying ago. I don't know if I'd risk it in real
life, although the scenery looks fabulous.

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