Global – True Course Simulations, a provider of virtual reality flight training solutions, published a feature explaining why Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) training can be easier and more effective when student pilots begin their preparation in a VR flight simulator, highlighting benefits for flight schools, instructors, and students alike.

• IFR training is widely recognised as one of the most demanding phases of pilot certification, requiring students to rely exclusively on cockpit instruments in low‑visibility conditions and manage complex procedures, navigation, and communications.

• True Course Simulations emphasises that starting IFR skill development in a VR flight simulator creates a risk‑free, immersive, and repeatable environment where students can familiarise themselves with instrument scanning and procedures without the constraints of aircraft scheduling, weather, or instructor availability.

• The academy’s VR platform allows students to practise core IFR competencies — including basic instrument scanning, holding pattern entries, VOR navigation, ILS and RNAV approaches, and missed approach procedures — with flexibility and immediate feedback not typically available in traditional aircraft or fixed simulators.

• By reinforcing procedural memory and cognitive workflows in a less stressful setting, VR training helps students build confidence earlier, enabling them to use actual aircraft time more efficiently and reducing training bottlenecks.

• True Course notes that VR does not replace FAA‑certified flight training devices (FTDs) or live flight instruction but rather supports accelerated learning, helping students enter formal IFR training better prepared and allowing instructors to focus on refining performance rather than on repetitive basics.

• Flight schools benefit from VR preparation through reduced aircraft wear, lower operational costs, and fewer scheduling conflicts, while instructors can review performance data and target ground lessons more effectively.

Source: True Course Simulations
Photo Credit: True Course Simulations