© Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved
“In aviation, perfection isn’t the goal, precision and calm decision-making are.”- Unknown
There are general aviation (GA) pilots who view the cruise phase of a flight as the least challenging and most boring. A common misconception is that it presents very little for the pilot-in-command (PIC) to do.
However, sitting in the cockpit and watching the scenery go by is not the time to relax.
Even some professional pilots make this mistake. Remember Northwest Airlines Flight 188, an Airbus A320, San Diego (KSAN) direct Minneapolis-Saint Paul (KMSP) in October, 2009? Through a series of head-scratching pilot errors, the aircraft remained in cruise flight and overshot its destination by more than 150 miles. The aircraft was out of contact with air traffic control for approximately 75 minutes.
Lessons from Flight 188:
- Check actual progress against your flight plan. Ask “Howgozit” questions, such as, “Is my groundspeed as expected or substantially faster or slower and, if so, why?”
- Use a mileage scale on your GPS display appropriate to the leg of your flight.
- Be aware of circumstances out of the ordinary, e.g., long or unusual silence on active comm frequencies or notable absence of expected contact with ATC or other aircraft chatter.
- Tune and confirm the correct comm frequency. Investigate and remedy in a timely manner if something seems amiss.
This is the third article in my series on The Basics of Flying. As I explained in the initial piece posted online in Midwest Flyer Monthly (January 2026), “[t]his should not result in new information being imparted to pilots; instead, it should serve as a refresher course to remind pilots of information they once knew, and can recall again, if prompted.”
The cruise phase of a GA flight is often described as the “quiet” portion of the journey – an opportunity to relax, monitor systems, and enjoy the view. But seasoned pilots know that cruise is not a rest break; it is a period of continuous, disciplined management. This is particularly true of single-pilot operations.
In many phases of flight, such as takeoff, approach, landing, and go-around, things can happen quickly. The aircraft is relatively close to the ground. The level of risk is high. These phases of flight demand immediate and constant attention. In the cruise phase, when the aircraft is straight and level, at altitude and on course, you have the “luxury” of time – time to monitor and to plan. Experienced pilots use this time wisely.
Whether flying VFR on a calm summer afternoon or navigating in the IFR system in IMC, the cruise segment demands attention, preparation, and smart cockpit habits. Good cruise phase practices reduce workload, improve situational awareness, and set the stage for a safe, predictable descent and arrival.
This article explores the best techniques and habits for general aviation pilots during cruise, with suggested guidance tailored to both VFR and IFR operations.
Establishing a Stable Cruise: Power, Pitch, Trim, and Fuel
Once the aircraft levels off at the desired altitude, the first priority is to stabilize the airplane.
Power and Pitch
- Set cruise power according to the aircraft’s performance charts.
- Allow the aircraft to accelerate to cruise speed before making fine adjustments.
- Maintain a pitch attitude that holds altitude without constant correction.
Trim
Trim is your friend. A properly trimmed airplane reduces fatigue and frees mental bandwidth for navigation, communication, planning, and monitoring tasks.
Fuel Management
- Switch tanks at planned intervals to maintain balance and ensure even fuel consumption.
- Cross‑check fuel burn against expected performance.
- Confirm that fuel selectors, pumps (if so equipped), and gauges are in the correct configuration.
A stable, well‑trimmed airplane with predictable fuel flow is the foundation for everything that follows.
Navigation Discipline: Staying Ahead of the Airplane
For VFR Pilots
Even with GPS, VFR navigation should never be passive.
- Periodically cross-check your position using visual references, sectional charts, and electronic navigation.
- Maintain awareness of terrain, potential emergency landing spots, airspace boundaries (both horizontal and vertical), and nearby airports.
- Use “sector” scanning – systematically scanning left, center, and right – to maintain traffic awareness.
For IFR Pilots
IFR cruise navigation is more structured but no less demanding.
- Verify that the aircraft is tracking the GPS magenta line and CDI for the assigned airway, direct‑to fix, or RNAV course.
- Monitor CDI/HSI sensitivity and ensure the navigation source (GPS, VOR, LOC) is correctly selected.
- Periodically confirm status: e.g., “Autopilot is engaged, NAV and ALT modes selected. Heading bug and OBS set correctly. GPS confirms proper enroute/terminal segment.”
- Stay ahead of upcoming fixes, altitude changes, and potential reroutes.
A disciplined navigation routine prevents surprises and reduces workload when ATC issues new instructions.
Communication: Clear, Concise, and Proactive
VFR Communication
- Monitor the appropriate frequencies – whether VFR traffic advisories, e.g., “flight following,” CTAF, Guard (121.5), or a nearby approach control or center.
- Listen for traffic advisories and maintain a mental picture of nearby aircraft.
IFR Communication
IFR pilots must maintain crisp, professional communication with ATC.
- Read back all clearances accurately.
- Advise ATC promptly of emergencies or urgent situations, deviations, turbulence, or weather concerns.
- Request altitude or route changes early if needed for comfort, fuel efficiency, or weather avoidance.
- Good communication builds trust with controllers and keeps the system running smoothly.
VFR Weather Considerations
- Continuously evaluate visibility, ceilings, cloud buildups, and terrain clearance.
- Watch for haze, smoke, or lowering ceilings that could compromise personal or VFR minimums.
- Use ADS‑B weather, if available, to monitor METARs, TAFs, and radar returns.
- If conditions begin to deteriorate, make decisions early – turn around, divert, or land before the situation becomes urgent.
IFR Weather Considerations
- IFR pilots must think in terms of systems and trends.
- Never stop evaluating weather conditions. Weather is dynamic, and cruise is the perfect time to reassess conditions.
- Use ADS‑B weather, if available, to monitor METARs, TAFs, and radar returns.
- Monitor icing potential, freezing levels, and cloud tops.
- Track convective activity and turbulence reports.
- Review destination and alternate weather regularly.
Cruise is the ideal time to refine your plan for the weather ahead and prepare for potential changes.
Systems Monitoring: Engine, Electrical, and Avionics
A healthy airplane is a predictable airplane. Cruise is the time to catch small anomalies before they become big problems.
Engine Monitoring
- Scan the annunciator panel, engine gauges, or engine monitor regularly: oil pressure, oil temperature, vacuum pressure, CHTs, EGTs, fuel and fuel flow, and RPM/MP.
- Look for trends—rising temperatures, falling oil pressure, falling vacuum pressure, changes in electrical load, fluctuating fuel flow, or engine roughness.
- Lean the mixture properly for altitude, temperature, and engine type.
Electrical System
- Confirm that the alternator is charging.
- Monitor voltage and amperage.
- Be alert for unusual smells, flickering lights, or erratic avionics behavior.
Avionics and Autopilot
- Confirm active and standby comm/nav frequencies are set as desired.
- Verify that the autopilot is holding altitude and course correctly.
- Cross–check GPS integrity and RAIM (if applicable).
- Ensure that backup navigation sources are available and configured.
A steady, methodical instrument scan – whether VFR or IFR – keeps you ahead of the airplane.
I have written previously about how easy it is to become complacent during cruise flight. My aircraft has a three light annunciator panel – only three lights to monitor (VAC, ALT, OIL). Yet, several years ago, because of my lack of a regular scan and my inattention, my right seat passenger had to ask me, “Hey, what is that light (VAC) on for?” Fortunately, we were in VMC. My scan has since improved.
Traffic Avoidance: Eyes Outside, Tools Inside
VFR Traffic Scanning
- The “see and avoid” principle remains the basis of VFR safety to resolve potential traffic issues.
- Use a systematic scan pattern to avoid fixation.
- Clear the area before changing heading or altitude.
- Use ADS‑B traffic as a supplement, not a replacement, for visual scanning.
IFR Traffic Awareness
Even in the IFR system, traffic conflicts can occur.
- Maintain a periodic outside scan when in VMC.
- Use ADS‑B traffic to build situational awareness.
- Respond promptly to TCAS or ATC traffic advisories.
Good traffic habits reduce risk in both controlled and uncontrolled airspace.
Autopilot Use: A Tool, Not a Crutch
Autopilots reduce workload, but they require active supervision.
Best Practices
- Engage the autopilot only after the aircraft is trimmed and stable.
- Avoid “overuse” of the autopilot. Consider periodically “hand flying” to keep your skills up.
- Monitor mode annunciations – know whether you are in NAV, HDG, ALT, VS, or other modes.
- Understand exactly what your GPS and autopilot are capable of, such as the creation of “advisory vertical guidance” on LNAV and LP approaches (and benefits/risks), and what the autopilot is doing at all times.
- Be prepared to disconnect instantly if the autopilot behaves unexpectedly.
- Be familiar with each option that allows you to disconnect the autopilot, e.g., disconnect switch on the yoke, “Off” switch on the autopilot unit, or pulling the designated circuit breaker for the autopilot.
VFR vs. IFR
- VFR pilots often use the autopilot for long legs to reduce fatigue.
- IFR pilots rely on the autopilot to manage workload during complex routing or weather.
In both cases, the PIC must remain the final authority and maintain situational awareness.
Passenger and Cabin Management
Cruise flight is a good time to check on passengers and the cabin environment.
- Ensure passengers are comfortable, hydrated, and calm.
- Brief them on upcoming turbulence, turns, or altitude changes.
- Adjust cabin heat, ventilation, or oxygen systems as needed.
A comfortable cabin contributes to a safer cockpit.
Planning Ahead: Descent, Arrival, and Contingencies
Experienced pilots use cruise to prepare for what comes next. Do not just sit there “fat, dumb, and happy,” – make good use of the time you have.
VFR Arrival Planning
- Review the destination airport layout, traffic pattern altitude (TPA), and comm frequencies.
- Listen early for the runway(s) in use and anticipate pattern entry based on traffic calls or ATC instructions.
- Identify terrain, obstacles, and noise‑sensitive areas.
- Plan your descent early to avoid steep, uncomfortable altitude changes.
IFR Arrival Planning
IFR pilots must think in terms of approach procedures.
- Review SIDs, STARs, approach plates, and missed approach instructions.
- Set up radio frequencies and avionics ahead of time.
- Brief the approach thoroughly, even if using an autopilot or GPS.
Contingency Planning
- Identify diversion airports along your route.
- Reassess fuel reserves.
- Consider weather alternatives and terrain escape routes.
A well‑planned arrival reduces workload and improves safety.
Mental Discipline: Staying Engaged and Avoiding Complacency
Cruise can lull pilots into a false sense of security. The antidote is deliberate engagement.
- Maintain a continuous scan of instruments, annunciator panels, weather, and navigation.
- Periodically verbalize position, course, altitude, GPS and autopilot modes, fuel state, and next steps.
- Use checklists (Climb, Cruise, Descent) – written or flow‑based – to stay organized.
Accomplished pilots (VFR and IFR) treat cruise as an active phase, not a passive one.
The cruise phase of a general aviation flight is where professionalism shows. It is where GA pilots demonstrate discipline, situational awareness, and thoughtful management of the aircraft and environment. Whether flying VFR on a clear day or navigating IFR in the soup, the habits you build in cruise shape the safety and quality of the entire flight.
A stable airplane, a sharp mind, attention to details, and a forward‑looking mindset turn cruise from a passive segment into a cornerstone of safe, reliable, and efficient flying.
DISCLAIMER: Mr. Zakos’s articles should not be used for flight training or misconstrued as instructional material. The articles represent the author’s personal opinions. Readers are urged to always consult with a Certified Flight Instructor and other sources about anything discussed herein.
© Copyright Dean Zakos 2026 All Rights Reserved
