AOPA Services

Many of us--particularly those who don't consider themselves to be technologically savvy--tend to learn the bare minimum about electronic equipment. That holds true from DVD players and digital cameras all the way up to the GPS navigators in the aircraft that we fly. We content ourselves with learning the basic functions of these units and don't go exploring beyond "Record," "Auto-Focus," or "Direct-To."

And that's a shame, particularly when it comes to pilot aids like GPS receivers. There are so many functions that can help VFR pilots on every flight--features that will help you to fly more safely and efficiently.

Here are some ideas. Do you fly a low-wing airplane with a fuel system that requires you to switch tanks? You can program some GPS units to pop up a reminder alert, thus giving you another tool to help keep you from running the tank dry. If you become proficient with your unit's flight plan function, you can use it to guide you around temporary flight restrictions and Class B airspace, or through VFR flyways.

These are just a few of the handy tips you'll learn in the AOPA Air Safety Foundation's online course, GPS for VFR Operations. With a clear, easy-to-understand explanation of the GPS system as its jumping-off point, the course takes you immediately into the pros and cons of GPS, types of GPS receivers, ASF guidance on receiver familiarization, GPS preflight and in-flight operations, why "direct-to" won't always work, how a GPS receiver can be your best friend in an emergency, how to avoid following the moving map straight into an airspace incursion, common GPS mistakes and how to avoid them, and ASF's Top Ten Bonus Tips for using GPS in VFR operations.

GPS for VFR Operations is free to all pilots, and completion counts toward the ground portion of the FAA Wings pilot proficiency program. See the ASF Web site for more information.