A Flight Simulator Odyssey

by Charles Gulick

Gone Fishin'

Chart: Miami
Title: 112.4 INT R170
En Route Coordinates:
   Aircraft: N10826, E19266
   Tower: N10770.054, E19428.881
Altitude:
   Aircraft: 1500
   Tower: 20 Heading: 090
Time: Daylight (Dawn/Dusk Optional)
Special Requirements: Tune NAV 1 112.40, set OBS R170

Spread ahead of you is Florida's largest lake, Lake Okeechobee. The finger of land is known as Observation Shoal and is, like much of the country hereabouts, marshland. Not far behind you, however, are lush forests, grazing lands for live-stock, sugar cane plantations, and the inevitable Florida citrus groves.

You're pointed at the approximate center of this giant but very shallow lake, famous for bass fishing and, when the largemouths aren't biting, crappie, redear and bluegill.

Your NAV should be tuned to the Pahokee VOR on 112.40, and Radial 170 set on your OBS. Your DME shows the distance you'll fly for your landing at Palm Beach County Glades Airport. Make the transition to maximum cruise speed if you like.

When the OBI starts moving, it will move rather briskly. Try to time your turn (a right turn, of course) to intercept accordingly. As you roll out, PHK should be straight ahead, and you're set up for a nine-mile final to Runway 17 (the tower is nicely positioned to watch your flare and touchdown). If your gear is up, don't spoil your approach by forgetting that fact.

Elevation is 24 feet.

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