397 APR Key Explained: GPS Approach & Autopilot Errors to Avoid with DPE Jim Pitman

Max talks with airline pilot and Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) Jim Pitman to clear up a persistent avionics myth: that pressing the APR (Approach) key activates a GPS approach. In reality, APR is part of the automatic flight control system (AFCS)—not the GPS navigator. Its function is to arm the flight director’s lateral and vertical capture modes so the autopilot (if engaged) can follow the approach path. You can also view a video version of this episode. Just look on the page for August 15, 2025 video. And while you're on that page, please sign up to support the show.

Jim’s “apples vs. oranges” analogy helps pilots keep the two systems straight:

Apples = GPS navigator functions like activating an approach, sequencing waypoints, and CDI scaling.

Oranges = AFCS/autopilot functions like heading, NAV, APR, and altitude hold modes.

Max and Jim break down common scenarios in G1000 and Garmin Perspective+ cockpits, including:

• How to know an approach is active (look for magenta waypoint below the approach title).
• Why APR is often pressed at the wrong time—and how that can disarm modes.
• When to press NAV instead of APR (e.g., intercepting before clearance).
• How to interpret scaling modes (LPV, LNAV, terminal, en route) inside the HSI.
• Using OBS mode effectively and when to turn it off.

They also discuss common checkride errors, such as failing to deselect OBS or mishandling the SUSP (suspend) key during a hold. Jim explains why the FAA expects private pilot applicants to demonstrate basic knowledge of installed automation—even without an instrument rating.

You’ll hear practical techniques to avoid “automation surprise,” like keeping the active flight plan visible, always checking the flight mode annunciator (“scoreboard”) before and after pressing a button, and using the “look–press–look” habit.

Finally, they clarify the confusion between loading and activating an approach: often, the best way to start is simply going direct to the IAF or IF rather than pressing “Activate Approach.”

Pilots can download Jim’s free “G1000 Common Errors & Solutions” guide at flywithjim.com/G1000 and  Whether you fly glass-cockpit IFR regularly or are just starting instrument training, this episode will help you use the APR key correctly, fly more precise GPS approaches, and avoid costly autopilot errors.

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