Anyone ever equip a Sonex for light IFR?
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This is an interesting thread for me (haven’t started building yet but a Sonex-B is at the top of my list). There seems to be a consensus that IFR is dangerous in a Sonex.
The only reason I saw explained was that you have to split your attention between the controls and the other IFR duties. OK, that’s reasonable.
To get back to the original question then, if I have all the required IFR instruments, a 2 axis autopilot (to hold course and level while I am busy doing IFR stuff) and this is not for storms or serious turbulence, just to be able to get through cloud decks (or just low visibility) to VFR on the other side, and not for takeoffs or landings, what is the issue (specific to a Sonex)? Let’s also say my autopilot has a 180 degree turn back option in case I don’t find the VFR on the other side when I expect to. Let’s also assume ADS-B traffic in and out (and weather of course).
It’s all about risk management. What risks are still in play, and can they be mitigated?
I am following up here to learn because evidently I am missing something important. I want a plane to fly for fun, but I also want it to be practical enough for cross country when I need that. “Light IFR” capability as the OP asked about makes a plane much more practical. Not go anywhere any time, but less likely to get delayed or diverted by something minor not in the forecast. Big weather is usually in the forecast. Little stuff that can still mess with VFR isn’t as reliable.
The only reason I saw explained was that you have to split your attention between the controls and the other IFR duties. OK, that’s reasonable.
To get back to the original question then, if I have all the required IFR instruments, a 2 axis autopilot (to hold course and level while I am busy doing IFR stuff) and this is not for storms or serious turbulence, just to be able to get through cloud decks (or just low visibility) to VFR on the other side, and not for takeoffs or landings, what is the issue (specific to a Sonex)? Let’s also say my autopilot has a 180 degree turn back option in case I don’t find the VFR on the other side when I expect to. Let’s also assume ADS-B traffic in and out (and weather of course).
It’s all about risk management. What risks are still in play, and can they be mitigated?
I am following up here to learn because evidently I am missing something important. I want a plane to fly for fun, but I also want it to be practical enough for cross country when I need that. “Light IFR” capability as the OP asked about makes a plane much more practical. Not go anywhere any time, but less likely to get delayed or diverted by something minor not in the forecast. Big weather is usually in the forecast. Little stuff that can still mess with VFR isn’t as reliable.