LOFT: San Diego to San Francisco
Hub-to-hub STAR flow with "descend via" clearance, NorCal flow control sequencing, and marine layer ILS at SFO.
View FAA WINGS activity on FAASafety.gov →Scenario Overview
Hub-to-hub transport-category profile from San Diego to San Francisco with full STAR flow control sequencing. The pilot must manage a "descend via" STAR clearance with multiple altitude and speed constraints while merging into one of the busiest arrival flows in the western US. Designed for structured Vision Jet training and type rating preparation on Aviator.NYC's FAA AATD-approved Cirrus Vision Jet (SF50) simulator with Perspective Touch+ avionics, or the G1000 NXi AATD with King Air B200 turboprop configuration.
Complete this LOFT with one of our CFIIs to earn WINGS credit toward your pilot proficiency. Learn more at FAASafety.gov
Route & Flight Plan
Airport Information
| RWY | Length | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 9/27 | 9,401 ft | asphalt |
| RWY | Length | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 10L/28R | 11,870 ft | asphalt |
| 10R/28L | 11,381 ft | asphalt |
| 1R/19L | 8,650 ft | asphalt |
| 1L/19R | 7,650 ft | asphalt |
Weather Scenario
Classic California coastal IFR: San Diego departs VFR with mild sea breezes, while San Francisco sits under a persistent summer marine layer. The marine stratus is driven by Pacific high pressure pushing cold upwelled water against the coast. By the 1930Z arrival window, the fog bank extends across the Bay with surface visibility near 2 miles. The TAF shows a TEMPO period of FG and BKN005, making the ILS the only reliable option. Wind on the SFO approach will be from the west at 16 gusting 22 — a direct crosswind that adds to the challenge.
Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts
Lesson Profile
| Phase | Time | Altitude | Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Briefing & Setup | 0:00-0:15 | Ground | Brief SID (BRDR2), en route, STAR (BIGSUR2), and ILS 28R approach. Review all altitude and speed restrictions on the STAR. Discuss "descend via" clearance compliance and NorCal flow control expectations. |
| Departure | 0:15-0:30 | 17-FL350 | BRDR2 departure from KSAN RWY 27. Single runway — departure timing matters. Climb through coastal layer, transition to LA Center. Comply with SID altitude constraints. |
| Cruise | 0:30-0:55 | FL350 | Cruise northbound along the California coast on V23. Monitor SFO weather updates. Brief STAR and approach. Begin top-of-descent planning for the BIGSUR arrival. |
| STAR & Descent | 0:55-1:20 | FL350-3,000 | "Descend via" BIGSUR2 arrival. Multiple crossing restrictions on altitude and speed. Expect ATC to amend crossing altitudes for flow metering. Transition from Oakland Center to NorCal Approach. Configure for approach while managing energy. |
| Approach & Landing | 1:20-1:40 | 3,000-13 | ILS RWY 28R at SFO. Break out of marine layer near minimums. Crosswind from Bay winds. Parallel approach traffic on 28L — maintain awareness of PRM procedures. |
| Debrief | 1:40-2:00 | Ground | Review STAR compliance (every crossing restriction), energy management, approach technique in marine layer. Discuss "descend via" versus "cross [fix] at" clearance differences. |
Post-LOFT Approach Practice
After the LOFT scenario concludes, practice 2 additional approaches for a total of 3 per session. Session is planned for up to 6 approaches — ask your CFII for additional practice.
Training Objectives
Proficiency
- Execute SID departure from a single-runway Class B airport
- Comply with "descend via" STAR clearance with crossing restrictions
- Execute the ILS RWY 28R at SFO in marine layer conditions
Progress
- Manage energy on a STAR with multiple altitude and speed constraints
- Interpret and respond to ATC flow control amendments
- Demonstrate tight speed control inside 10 DME (210 KIAS or less)
Single-Pilot CRM
- Prioritize tasks during high-tempo STAR compliance
- Self-brief approach during descent workload
- Manage go-around decision at a parallel runway complex
Prepare for Your Session
What does "descend via" mean and how does it differ from "cross [fix] at [altitude]"?
What are the key crossing restrictions on a typical NorCal STAR into SFO?
Why is KSAN operationally challenging for departures despite good weather?
What is PRM and when does it apply at SFO?
Instructor Notes
Related IFR Training Guides
Deepen your understanding of the skills practiced in this scenario
Unlocking VNAV on Garmin G1000
Master vertical navigation — setup, descent planning, and common pitfalls.
Mastering Climb Gradients for IFR Departures
Calculate and fly departure climb gradients — obstacle clearance and terrain awareness.
How to Brief a Jeppesen Approach Plate
Step-by-step Jeppesen chart briefing checklist used by airline pilots.
Instrument Approach Configuration Guide
Proper aircraft configuration for approaches — speeds, flaps, and stabilization.
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