https://youtu.be/yYWThUkkmIk?si=kUjr7mF7lGmUqPfY

Good video. Flying (light airplanes) SP in IMC turbulence is difficult and stressful, and unbelievably tiring. Hand flying for an extended period in embedded turbulence is not wise.

A working AP and knowing how to use it in difficult conditions is a must IMO, and practice programming ones GPS in fair weather before flying in demanding conditions. Downlinked weather is pretty strongly advisable too.

If ever in trouble, always have an out, and use it, if only to collect oneself.

My $.02

The Pilot was clearly in way over his head.

Single Pilot IMC flying requires a high level of proficiency. That includes being able to fly without the use of automation. Too often automation is being used as a crutch - not as a tool. JMHO.

As for circling approaches - they are prohibited at my Airline. They were prohibited at my previous Airline as well.

Eric Janson wrote: ↑Wed May 07, 2025 6:19 am The Pilot was clearly in way over his head.

Single Pilot IMC flying requires a high level of proficiency. That includes being able to fly without the use of automation. Too often automation is being used as a crutch - not as a tool. JMHO.

As for circling approaches - they are prohibited at my Airline. They were prohibited at my previous Airline as well.

What happens when an airline that refuses circling approaches wishes to fly to an airport where that is routinely required? (DCA is one example)

rookiepilot wrote: ↑Thu May 15, 2025 6:08 am

Eric Janson wrote: ↑Wed May 07, 2025 6:19 am The Pilot was clearly in way over his head.

Single Pilot IMC flying requires a high level of proficiency. That includes being able to fly without the use of automation. Too often automation is being used as a crutch - not as a tool. JMHO.

As for circling approaches - they are prohibited at my Airline. They were prohibited at my previous Airline as well.

What happens when an airline that refuses circling approaches wishes to fly to an airport where that is routinely required? (DCA is one example)

Just do a visual.

rookiepilot wrote: ↑Thu May 15, 2025 6:08 am
What happens when an airline that refuses circling approaches wishes to fly to an airport where that is routinely required? (DCA is one example)

One option is indeed to change to circling to a visual approach. May not be possible at some airports.

Another option would be for approval to be given for an individual flight or airport. I've never experienced this although I have received approval to use runways that were prohibited on a one-time basis.

Eric Janson wrote: ↑Thu May 15, 2025 12:54 pm

rookiepilot wrote: ↑Thu May 15, 2025 6:08 am
What happens when an airline that refuses circling approaches wishes to fly to an airport where that is routinely required? (DCA is one example)

One option is indeed to change to circling to a visual approach. May not be possible at some airports.

Another option would be for approval to be given for an individual flight or airport. I've never experienced this although I have received approval to use runways that were prohibited on a one-time basis.

That's why FMS visuals were designed. The 28's at SFO come to mind.