But this also means focus is on the use on GPS as a simple Go-To navaid - still missing from this is that the modern GPS (GNS430/530 or even better, 480) are approaching FMS-like capabilities
It is possible to use the GPS "properly" for an IRT now, and has been expected on renewals (which is what HFD is asking about) for quite some time.
My current batch of students always program their entire route into the GPS flight plan before departure. They can then use it any time on their route - either by following the flight they programmed in, or modifying it in-flight (typically by going Direct to a way-point which is already in the GPS flight plan). However, I suggest to them that they should normally use conventional navaids when flying directly to or from such an aid. When they are not flying directly to or from a navaid, I suggest that they use GPS - although I also make sure that they know how to find their next waypoint without using GPS in cases like this too.
I've seen copies of recent memos from the CAA exam centres which have stated that the use of autopilot will be allowed in the en-route section of an initial IR skills test now (but if the candidate uses autopilot they will be expected to demonstrate a much higher standard of plog-keeping) - but I didn't pay attention to the details since none of my school's aircraft have funtioning autopilots. However, it has been the case that autopilot use is not only allowed by expected on IR renewals for many years if the aircraft being used is equipped with one.
I hope that's of use to you, HFD.
FFF
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