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7 Answers

How can I log simulator time in logbook

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FAA Regulations, Instrument Rating

I flew 4 instrument approaches today in an AATD (Advanced Aviation Training Device). Can I record these in my logbook in the instrument approaches column? 

7 Answers



  1. KDS on Jan 18, 2019

    Did you have an instructor?

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  2. Best Answer


    Mark Kolber on Jan 18, 2019

    If you are already instrument rated and these are to be counted, if at all, toward currency, yes.

    If you are not instrument rated and it’s for training purposes, not without your instructor’s endorsement.

    If none of the above, they don’t count for anything and I wouldn’t bother.

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  3. Mark Kolber on Jan 18, 2019

    Missed one assumption: the Letter of Authorization includes approaches.

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  4. Kris Kortokrax on Jan 18, 2019

    He doesn’t need an instructor anymore, if he did the approaches to maintain currency IAW 61.57. (See 61.51(g)(5))

    As far as what you can log, you cannot log PIC time (because the reg refers to PIC flight time).
    You cannot log X-C time.

    61.51(b) states what you must log (if applicable to simulated flight time). 61.51(g)(5) also lists requirements.

    I think there is a legal interpretation that outlines it (mainly log the approaches and simulated instrument time). It also contains language that the display must be set for instrument conditions to log instrument time. I can look it up if you need it.

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  5. Kris Kortokrax on Jan 18, 2019

    Typing at the same time early in the morning.
    Good morning Mark.

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  6. lifeasben on Jan 18, 2019

    Thanks guys. Yes, I am instrument rated; I meant to say to that I wanted to know if I could record the approaches in my log book if I was doing so toward instrument currency.

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  7. Mark Kolber on Jan 18, 2019

    Good morning Kris 🙂

    BTDT 😀

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