Citation School Day 2

Today started with a question and answer review of the power plant and fuel systems. After that, Jim introduced the electrical system. The Citation V has a very easy to understand power supply and bus distribution system. It interesting to note the bus arrangement is carried over from Citation models that are single pilot certified having access to right side circuit breakers from the Captain's panel.

The second simulator (stimulator in pilot vernacular) session consisted of a normal normal takeoff from 13R (one-three right) at JFK to a North departure into the practice area to perfect the steep turns and stall series. All went well and Jim was pleased that I performed within ATP standards on day 2. Joann and I received vectors to the ILS 4R and (of course) went missed approach to hold at DPK VOR. It's been like 10 years since I've flown a non FMS aided hold and I was going through the mental gymnastics as our number one engine failed. It turns out the fuel system lost motive flow and starved the engine.

I called for the appropriate engine shut down in flight checklist followed by a successful inflight starter assisted relight as we got within 2 miles of the VOR. Slightly surprised my my ability to decide to perform a parallel entry and start the clock passing over the station we received a clearance from ATC to fly the GPS approach 4R. Joann programmed the GPS as I continued the hold allowing her enough time to complete her PNF duties. Guess what? We went missed and got vectored to a VOR 4R circle 31R.

Since most visuals in simulators do a very poor job of providing depth perception, circling in the the virtual world is overly complicated as visual cues on the ground seem to show up out of nowhere as opposed to gradually coming into view. The circling approach is a maneuver where crew synergy and coordination are essential to a successful outcome. Joann gave me excellent pointers on when and where to turn as I entered the right circle for the runway and finally landed successfully.

Joann and I are becoming crew mates and earning each others' trust in the simulator. Her motivation is to remain employed as a SIC crew member for the Citation program at Simcom. My motivation is to pass the FAA checkride in a few days and remain employed too. Beyond that common employment goal, our motivation is to continue to improve our flying skill and hone our craft. It's just better when you get a nice landing out of it, simulated or not.