As student pilots, we’ve got some pretty cool gadgets we bring to work with us every day. Since we’re guessing you haven’t brought a kneeboard, logbook, or plotter to any type of training with you before, we’ll explain exactly just what the unfamiliar items are and list the must-haves to kickstart your training.
Kneeboard – http://shop.wayman.net/collections/pilot-supplies/kneeboard Ever wonder how new student pilots organize their maps and checklists in small planes? For accessibility and quick reference, we put it on a small clip board and strap it just above your knee. The most basic knee boards are small metal clipboards with a Velcro strap to secure around your leg. More advanced knee boards fold open to accommodate many materials, such as pens, plastic sheet protectors and even iPads.
Flight Bag – http://shop.wayman.net/collections/pilot-supplies/bag Keep your headset, books, E-6b, maps and plotter in one bag. Many flight bags are different than typical duffle bags because they offer slots and pockets to easily access pens, flashlights, and kneeboards and are wide enough to accompany headsets and books. A well made and accessible flight bag will boost your cockpit resource management. Don’t go scrambling one-handed through the backseat on final.
E6B – http://shop.wayman.net/search?q=e6b We call this notorious gadget the “Whiz wheel”. Why? It’s cleverly designed to assist in calculating navigational course, wind correction, fuel burn,estimated flight time, and more. There are a whole lot of numbers arranged on this little gadget, which looks intimidating, but you’ll get the hang of it with a few pointers from your CFI.
Headset – http://shop.wayman.net/collections/electronics/headset Aside from aviators and a captains hat, the headset is the most iconic piece of pilot gear. It is also probably the one you’ll get the most use out of. Basic headsets are necessary for use on training flights. However for the best comfort, noise protection, sound quality and more advanced capabilities such as noise cancelation or Bluetooth invest in a higher quality personal set.
Red Headlamp – http://shop.wayman.net/search?q=flashlight Night flying has its own set of challenges. To get your pilot’s license you are required to train a certain amount of time at night. It’s a great idea to get a headlamp with a red light as opposed to a white light. White lights can be temporarily blinding when flashed at night. A headlamp, in addition to a handheld, is also recommended so while flying you can keep your hands free to hold the yoke, adjust the throttle, and take notes as needed.
Plotter – http://shop.wayman.net/collections/pilot-supplies/plotter In order to get your license you will have to show your pilot examiner your resourcefulness by learning how to navigate the way pilots did in the days before GPS. This requires measuring and calculating all details of your flight route from distance, direction, fuel burn, and estimated time in route. Plotters are available in plastic or metal and are essentially aviation-specific rulers that allow you to measure distance and course on conventional aviation maps.
Pilot Logbook – http://shop.wayman.net/collections/pilot-supplies/logbook After your first flight, your CFI will log and sign off on your very first flight hour. From then on, this will be your official record of training and flight hours. The logbook should be brought with you on every training flight. Most logbooks will do if you are flying for sport, however if you plan to fly professionally then a large logbook such as a Jeppesen Professional Pilot Logbook may be a better match because they offer more extensive and specific tracking of flight details.
Check List – Here’s another item you’ll never fly without. A checklist for the exact type and model of aircraft you’ll be flying. The checklist a list of every item you need to check before starting the engine, take off, landing, and provides a guide in case of emergencies. We suggest waiting to buy this until you’ve completed your first flight and confirmed with your CFI which aircraft and model will be the best fit for you.
Pilot’s Operating Handbook – http://shop.wayman.net/products/airplane-flying-handbook-1 A POH is a guide to your specific type of plane. It is the main guide to your aircraft. Want to know how much fuel your aircraft holds? How much runway does it need to take off? Look here. This is your bread and butter and you should read it cover to cover. The great news is, every aircraft is required to have one on board to fly. The bad news is, every aircraft is required to have one on board, so if the plane is in the air so is your study material. Only buy this when you know exactly what type and model aircraft you will be flying,
FAR/AIM – http://shop.wayman.net/search?q=far The FAR/AIM (Federal Aviation Regulations and Aeronautical Information Manual) is two books in one and the holy grail of aviation regulations and helpful aeronautical information. FAR Part 61 for Pilot Licensing lists what you’ll have to accomplish to become a pilot. Part 91 lists the rules for flying and the AIM gives you a lot of great information about how air traffic a control works as well as a variety of other topics from navigation aids to weather information. Talk about a lot of great information, plus, you can use this one during your pilot exam!
Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK) – The “P-Hack” is your basic all around guide to aerodynamics and aircraft systems. Want to read ahead about what an altimeter is and how it works? Or how wings create lift? Jumpstart your flight knowledge with the PHAK.
Sectional Chart – http://shop.wayman.net/products/sectional-miami This is the map of the sky and surrounding landmarks and you’ll never fly without it. With a Pilot Shop Associate’s help, grab one of these to start learning the map lingo and to look at the airspace, landmarks, and navigational aids in the area you’ll be flying in.
AFD (Airport Facility and Directory) – http://shop.wayman.net/products/approach-se1 Your navigation maps can only tell you so much information about each airport in your area. This guide will give you detailed information such as hours of operation, airport layout, taxi diagram, fuel, private terminals, and special precautions to take note of when visiting.
Sunglasses – Aside from looking cool, sunglasses help block the extremely bright reflections from clouds and the sun. Just make sure you get non-polarized lenses; polarized lenses make digital navigation screens hard to read.
With the items above, plus at least two pens, you’ll be daily outfitted for your flight training. We readily carry each item listed above in our pilot shop http://shop.wayman.net. Our associates will be pleased to assist you with any questions you may have. Stay tuned for more recommendations and handy items for your flight training and knowledge.
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