To fill this need, we’ve recently been using two apps from Simionic, a small company that’s more for simulator enthusiasts than Cirrus or Cessna pilots. This is especially true for maintaining currency, since a quick session on the tablet that’s always with you can be easier than sitting down at a computer. But sometimes all you need is a basic simulator on your iPad that allows you to push buttons and turn (simulated) knobs, without all the guided lessons and scenarios. There are a number of training resources available to pilots, including a variety of training manuals from Garmin and a fairly comprehensive training course from Sporty’s that includes a desktop simulator program. A little time spent on the ground can really pay off. Transitioning to the G1000 isn’t necessarily hard, but it does require some study and practice before blasting off into busy airspace.

The Garmin G1000 (general aviation’s most popular glass cockpit by far) is almost 12 years old now, and yet for thousands of pilots every year it is new territory.