Master the G1000 avionics system This course will take you beyond the basics and give you a solid understanding of many of the capabilities of the G1000.
By the end of this course, you will understand the use of:
- The GFC 700 autopilot with the G1000
- The use of ground-based navigation with the G1000 (VOR, ILS, DME)
- The GPS direct-to function
- The GPS OBS mode
- Auto-scaling and cross track error
- Flight plans
- Instrument approaches
- Departure and arrival procedures
- Autopilot climb/descent modes
- VNAV (vertical navigation)
- How to put everything to use in a full flight
This course doesn’t just explain what each button does. It will help you understand when and how you might use each functions, highlighting some of the common mistakes that trip pilots up.
You should have some familiarity with IFR procedures (since the content will include instrument approaches and procedures) and a basic understanding of autopilot usage. However, VFR pilots will still find the information to be useful.

Schedule
Our next available class begins on February 4, 2023 with the following schedule:
- Each Saturday from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Eastern Time
- 4 week duration (last class on February 25)
Format
Each class is conducted in small-group format (max 7 per class to ensure high-quality personal attention).
Classes will consist of tutorial, practical exercises which you can complete alongside the instructor, and question/answer sessions.
You can utilize the free 1-on-1 coaching session at any point when you would like to receive extra support or practice.
Software used: Each class will be conducted using Zoom as the primary method of communication. A stable internet connection and a computer microphone are required (connected the same computer where you use your simulator). Webcam is not required.
You must have either X-Plane 11 or 12 with scenery loaded for the United States. The aircraft utilized will be the default Cessna 172.
Syllabus
- Lesson 1:
- GFC 700 autopilot basics
- Ground Aid navigation (VOR, ILS, DME): Entering frequencies, identification, flags, CDIs, intercepting/tracking VOR radials using autopilot
- GPS Direct-To: HSI scaling, NRST function, display of direct-to track
- Lesson 2:
- GPS OBS Mode
- Auto-scaling and cross track error
- Flight Plans: Departure, enroute, arrival, approach segments; duplicate waypoints; saving/reloading; preloading; skipping waypoints; transitioning to heading mode; inserting additional waypoints; handling of the last waypoint
- Lesson 3:
- Instrument Approaches: ILS, VOR, NDB, RNAV/RNP; scaling; use of autopilot for missed approach; suspend mode
- Departure and arrival procedures
- Lesson 4:
- Autopilot climb/descent modes: Vertical speed and Flight Level Change
- VNAV (Vertical Navigation): Color conventions, TOD/BOD, power control
- Putting it all together: Creating an IFR flight plan using SimBrief, receiving clearance, entering flight plan, flying RNAV approach with a missed approach, direct-to route to a nearby airport and flying the ILS
Here’s a short sample video of the instructor demonstrating some capabilities of the G1000 in a diversion scenario. After completing this course, you will understand functions such as the OBS mode in detail. You can follow along with the instructor and ask them questions throughout the class.
What's included?
- Suggested reading material before each lesson and progress tracking in your student portal
- Access to recordings of each lesson for your review (available for up to 6 months)
- A 30-minute 1-on-1 lesson with any of our Certified Flight Instructors (valid within 2 months of the course start date). Use this to get extra assistance on areas where you need more help.
Your instructor
This class will be taught by David Chambers, a UK-based instrument-rated flight instructor and an instrument-rated FAA Private Pilot with experience flying throughout the US and Europe.
We may also incorporate guest instructors to help you learn from a variety of styles and perspectives.
