This is all part of the problem. Here we are on an African Forum so any references to licences and flight times would first in this case, presumably, be made in a South African context. One of the problems seems to be that many are trying to interpolate the FARs into the SA ANRs in whatever way acts to their best advantage. The two systems are different and cannot be so intermngles quite as easily. The same applies to JAR regulations.
The last UK/JAR instrument renewal I did, just over a year ago, was done in the sim. There were no particular problems with banging around TMAs and doing all the normal stuff on one engine. The old adage applies, given the short ditances and flight times, if you're not doing something, you've missed something. But there's a new wrinkle to cope with. Halfway between Southampton and Guernsey the simulator comes to a grinding halt. Now the syllabus for renewal calls for recovery from unusual attitudes in the twin on limited panel. Now that did call for a little refresher training! As for the use of the autopilot, yes indeed, some use of the thing is now permitted but quite frankly, it's easier, especially in a simulator, just to ignore the kit and fly it all hands on.
