Navigation Workflow
The typical workflow of an IFR navigation — from preparation to debriefing.
This page describes the recommended workflow for each phase of an exercise in the HOLD simulator.
Phase 1: Briefing
Before starting the simulation, prepare yourself:
- Read the briefing: stations, routes, weather conditions, wind
- Identify the waypoints: sequence of passage, type (VOR, NDB, intersection)
- Calculate initial headings: magnetic track ± drift correction
- Estimate times: distance / Gs for each segment
- Answer the quiz: validate your understanding of the scenario
Tip: Mentally note the wind (direction/strength) — you will need it throughout the flight.
Phase 2: En-route Navigation
At each segment
Apply the 5T sequence when passing each waypoint:
| Letter | Action | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Turn | Turn | Take the new heading (with drift correction) |
| Time | Timer | Start the timer (or note the time) |
| Tune | Radio | Select the next station if necessary |
| Twist | Course selector | Set the new radial/QDM on the course selector |
| Talk | Communicate | (simulated) Report passing the waypoint |
Continuously
- Monitor heading: adjust drift correction if necessary
- Monitor timer: anticipate arrival at the next waypoint
- Cross-check information: RMI + course selector + DME (if available)
Phase 3: Holding Pattern
Entry
- Identify the arrival sector (direct, parallel, offset)
- Press TOP when passing the station
- Execute the entry according to the type
First circuit
- Outbound leg: outbound heading, 1-minute timer
- 180° turn: 1 minute in standard rate turn
- Inbound leg: inbound heading, monitor the timer
- Station passage: note the inbound leg time
Subsequent circuits — corrections
After the first circuit, correct:
- Outbound time: if the inbound leg lasted X seconds too long/short compared to 1 min, adjust the outbound leg by 3×X
- Heading: apply single correction on the inbound leg, triple on the outbound leg
Phase 4: Approach
- Leave the hold according to the clearance
- Intercept the approach axis (radial or QDM)
- Stabilize: heading, speed, configuration
- Descend according to the prescribed profile
- Monitor: lateral deviation (course selector), altitude, speed
Phase 5: Debriefing
After the flight, analyze your performance:
- Overall score: overview of performance
- Track trace: compare actual vs ideal flight path
- Areas for improvement: which waypoints were missed? Which corrections were insufficient?
- Replay: review the flight at accelerated speed to identify errors
In HOLD: The debriefing page displays all these elements automatically. Use the replay to understand your mistakes and improve.