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Old December 29th 07, 03:04 PM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
HL Falbaum
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Default instrument rating worth pursuing?


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Hi everyone:

I searched the archives for a discussion of this topic, but found
nothing recent, so here it goes.

I got my power license two years ago. Shortly after I saw the light
and was converted to gliders. I just passed my glider checkride a
week ago. Alas, now I am back in school in Eastern Washington state
where there are few gliders in the air and many inches of snow on the
ground. The nearest things with wings are Cessnas at the local FBO.
So I am thinking of doing more power flying and perhaps an instrument
rating. (There are no aerobatics or tailwheel instructors nearby.)

Here's my question to you all: to what extent can further training in
power flying, in particular the instrument rating, be of use in glider
flying? My personal goal is to pursue cross-country soaring. Would an
instrument rating broaden my horizons and sharpen my flying, or is it
better to conserve time, energy, and resources for gliders.

To those of you who have instrument ratings - how has the instrument
rating helped with your glider flying? Also, how has power flying
helped with your glider flying?

Your comments and suggestions are much appreciated.

Happy new year!
-Teresa



If you want to go somewhere in an airplane, the Instrument Rating is very
worthwhile.
It is almost totally counterproductive for cross country soaring.

Why?

Instument flying is seeking the "steady state" by looking at the panel.
Cross country Soaring is dynamic, looking outside.


Hartley Falbaum