Patch's Flight Schools Guide

Flight schools usually won’t spend too much time going over GPS systems during your Private Pilot training.  It’s not because you won’t use them, just because knowledge of them isn’t required to pass your check-ride.  There is SO much to remember when going through the training, anything they can put off until after you’ve got your ticket, they will.  That doesn’t mean it’s not important or not something you need to know.

Yes, people have been flying without GPS for years and done fine.  But, the truth is, having a GPS system onboard and knowing how to use it will save you time, money, fuel and potential problems.  But, it will only be a valuable resource if you’ve taken the time to learn it and learn it well.  If you have to check the manual every time you go to turn it on, it will be more of a distraction than it should be.

There are a lot of GPS systems on the market, from basic systems without a moving map to very comprehensive ones that include weather radar overlays via XM Satellite wx services.  Right in the middle of these two extremes are the Garmin GNS430 and GNS530.  Both are very similar to each other with the 530 providing a larger screen real estate.  Many systems will have a 430 and a 530 or two of either one.

When I jumped into the cockpit of the Archer III I was getting checked out in, I looked at the dual 430’s and got a little nervous.  Since that time I’ve spend several hours using the training system Garmin makes available completely free.  It’s a 430 simulator you can install on your computer and spend hours getting to know.  This would NOT hurt at all if you did just that.

If you’re a member of the AOPA (and if you’re a pilot, I don’t know why you wouldn’t be) you have some training tools available that will help give you a head start in operation of both the 430 and the 530.  This training module will take less than 20 minutes and it will give you the very basics to get you started in the right direction.  Watch the training and then start fiddling with the simulator on your computer.  Then you’ll be ready to make good use of that system once you’re airborne and burning up some fuel.

Garmin 430/530 Simulator

AOPA Training Module

Garmin GNS430 Cheat Sheet (PDF)

Enjoy that GPS and make good use of it.  But, don’t lose your ability to resort to more rudimentary navigation aids in the event your trusty GPS decides to fail.  You’ll be glad you remember those things you learned while getting your PPSEL.

Related Tools:

Garmin GNS430 Multi-Page Qref Book – $27.95
Clear, illustrated overviews and procedures help you master the GPS quickly. Qref Quick Reference checklists feature expert tips and helpful procedures in a handy, indestructible format. Avionics experts provide detailed, how-to steps for nearly every feature, and the thoughtful design guides you through each screen, menu, and step.

Garmin GNS 530/430 Single-Page Qref Card – $13.95
Qref cards are the perfect companion to your GPS system. They feature common actions, helpful tips, and an indestructible format. Can’t remember a function? Want to learn something new? The GPS experts at Qref have put together this thoughtful, full-color, double-sided design to get you unstuck.

Jeppesen Garmin GNS 530/430 Training VFR & Core IFR Procedures Software - $151.95
Video-based training is a start, but the Jeppesen e-Learning systems increase learning and let you put your knowledge to practical use. A total solution for both initial and recurrent training, letting you learn at your own pace, while practicing procedures with the comfort and safety of using a computer.

Tagged as: GPS, navigation, training