At FLYING we have had a front-row seat for all of the cool new advances in the last year—and it keeps us charged up about the industry we love. Though we have a few favorites, we want to know what you think took the top prize for the Coolest New Product of the Year. We looked at the full year of 2022 to review as much new stuff as possible, and we came up with the following options. What captures your vote? The winner will take the new FLYING Readers’ Choice Award for 2023.

The post Vote Now for the 2023 <i>FLYING</i> Readers Choice Award appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

When you fly up in the flight levels, you automatically take a new view toward the oxygen system you carry on board. To this end, Aerox, a full-service oxygen systems and service provider, has announced several oxygen solutions for turboprops and light jets, including portable oxygen systems and emergency descent gear for pilots.

Diluter Demand Masks

You hope to only use the masks that sit in silent sentry behind you during the compulsory preflight checks you make with each flight. However, there will come a time when the diluter demand mask you would use in a sudden decompression or other high-altitude emergency will need replacing.

Aerox offers the 725 Mask that is sized and scoped for high-performance turboprops and light jets.

Priced at $3,950, it comes with a quick-donning head harness and electret microphone, and it’s purported to be more comfortable than the masks that came as standard equipment on the aircraft.

PrO2 Series for Emergency Descents

Though you may be flying a pressurized aircraft, it’s no reason to leave your portable oxygen system behind.

• READ MORE: Aerox Expands on Personal Oxygen Line for Pilots

In the event of a depressurization or other emergency, you may benefit from a system like Aerox’s PrO2, with a portable bottle, tubing, and mask, ready to don. The PrO2 is available in a wide range of sizes, too, so it’s suitable for use by passengers.

Oxygen Cylinder Update

Aerox has also received approval to replace certain oxygen canisters in two additional aircraft. For the Eclipse 500/550, Aerox offers a PMA Kevlar cylinder, with several sizes available.

For Piper Matrix owners and operators, Aerox now has a PMA cylinder/regulator assembly, suitable for use as a replacement for the stock assembly once the carbon fiber cylinder reaches the end of its 15-year lifespan.

The post Aerox Offers Oxygen Solutions for Turboprops, Light Jets appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

One of the hazards of being a pilot is the potential for hearing loss. This goes back to the early days of aviation—Amelia Earhart is said to have commented on a temporary loss of hearing as a result of long flights behind a loud radial engine. Prolonged exposure to noise and vibration will take its toll.

These days, most pilots are savvy enough to wear some sort of hearing protection every time they fly, whether it be earplugs when they are in an open cockpit biplane that lacks an electrical system, or noise-canceling mega-buck headsets in a jet.

This Article First Appeared in FLYING Magazine

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FLYING put a few of the more popular designs through our testing gauntlet.

David Clark DC Series

David Clark, the Worcester, Massachusetts-based company, has been manufacturing “head set communication systems for high-noise environments” since 1975. 

As headsets for general aviation pilots became more popular in the 1980s, DCs were the ones that pretty much every pilot, from students to professionals, used. My first headset was a DC H10-40 picked out by a test pilot co-worker of my dad’s at Lockheed Martin. Dad said, “If they were good enough for someone flying an F-whatever,” they were good enough for me. The headset is still available and described in many pilot supply catalogs as “best value” for both the fledgling aviator and the more established pilot, as it is available new for less than $300. 

These days, David Clark has expanded its options. Some of the designs have passive noise attenuating and electronic noise canceling, some have active noise reduction (ANR). There are also units with articulating boom mics, and others with a one-piece wire style. There are headsets with different-sized and shaped earcups, and the price (between about $335 to $895) varies depending on additional features, including Bluetooth,among others.

I spent my first 4,000 hours under a DC headset. They were durable. I know I dropped mine a few times and had to replace several ear seals—the definition of excitement is when one of the gel seals fails during a cross-country flight and your flight instructor thinks your brains are leaking out.

David Clark also has an incredible service department. You can ship the headset to them, and if they can fix it, they will do so at a reasonable cost. If there are charges, they will call you for authorization before beginning the repair work. Some replacement parts, such as the gel ear seals and microphones, can be purchased and installed yourself. All David Clark headsets carry a five-year warranty.

Sigtronics S-20

The Sigtronics S-20 Headset is one of the most inexpensive headsets on the market, coming in at less than $200. This makes it popular as a first-time headset for the budget-conscious aviator and for flight school operators who have lost headsets to people who suffer from “asset confusion.”

The headset features a noise-canceling microphone with a foam windscreen attached to an articulating boom mic and foam ear seals. The model weighs 12.4 ounces and carries a three-year warranty.

For several years I kept one of these in my desk at the flight school as a backup to my DCs or for clients to use if they forgot their own.

Bose A20

There comes a time in every pilot’s life when they take a look at a Bose headset. Bose brought ANR technology to the masses more than a decade ago with a variety of headsets. The most popular among the general aviation crowd is the Bose A20 aviation headset. The model comes with or without the Bluetooth feature (for a difference of $100). The microphone is interchangeable to either side for ease of use. The A20 uses AA batteries and weighs only 12 ounces.

• READ MORE Bose Unveils A30 Aviation Headset

The Bose has a wide headband and is comfortable with or without a ballcap. The downside of the Bose A20 is the cost. Its $1,195 price tag makes it one of the more expensive headsets on the market, but pilots who own them swear by them. The Bose A20 carries a five-year warranty.

Lightspeed Delta Zulu

The first ANR headset I ever used was a Lightspeed Aviation design. It belonged to a client—he had two in his aircraft and insisted I use the other one. The first time I hit the power button and the engine noise went away was a life-changing event.

Lightspeed Aviation has recently introduced the Bluetooth-enabled Delta Zulu model that gives the pilot the ability to customize its auditory acuity with the help of an app, and also has a built-in carbon monoxide detector that provides an auditory warning if CO is present in the cockpit.

The app makes it possible for the headset user to fine-tune the device to meet their hearing needs, which can be very useful if the wearer has differentiated hearing loss in one or both ears. The app also enables the user to record radio conversations, play back transmissions, draw diagrams, and archive flight recordings for post-flight briefing using a smartphone or other mobile device.

The Delta Zulu also features Bluetooth wireless technology with A2DP technology-enabled cell phone communications and stereo music streaming, alongwith alerts from aviation apps. ComPriority automatically lowers the volume of any auxiliary device when there is a radio or intercom transmission.

The headset has an Ultra Accessory Connection (UAC) plug, allowing the user to connect to other devices directly from the headset for charging, data communications, and auxiliary audio. The Delta Zulu carries a price tag of $1,099 and comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee and seven-year warranty.

Clarity Aloft Stereo Aviation Pro Plus

For the pilot who flies an aircraft with limited headroom, the Clarity Aloft Stereo Pro Plus is a TSO-certified, in-ear headset that does not need batteries. Instead of having a headband over your head, the wire band goes behind your head, sort of like wearing a pair of sunglasses backward.

The earpieces are composed of soft viscoelastic foam capable of 35 to 45 dB spectrum noise reduction. The headband is similar to those worn by stage performers and is so light, you might even forget you’re wearing it. The Clarity Aloft model doesn’t require batteries and the foam ear pieces can be easily replaced. They are about as custom fitted as you can get because they sit directly in the ear canal. 

You’ll find the Clarity Aloft Stereo Pro Plus is priced at $725 and comes with a three-year warranty. Extra ear pieces run about $25.

This article was originally published in the February 2023 Issue 934 of FLYING.

The post Selecting a Great New Headset appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Learning to fly is a daunting challenge for many reasons. The prospect of departing the earth’s surface at the controls of a small aircraft, while thrilling, can also be a bit scary. There are regulations to learn, exams to pass, both academic and physical, and skills and techniques to develop.

And then there is the cost.

While paying for instruction, aircraft rentals and fuel will strain the budgets of many students, it is the price of gear that tends to surprise learners the most. There is a long list of things student pilots need all at once when getting started, from headsets and tools to manuals, charts, kneeboards, and flashlights. It all adds up.

• READ MORE: FLYING Launches Learn to Fly Kit

“That’s aviation,” some people will say, claiming everything related to airplanes is expensive. However, as seasoned pilots know, there are always opportunities to save money. You simply have to know where to look.

I divide the acquisition of pilot gear into three categories. These include items available through retail channels at significant discounts, equipment easily found on the used market, typically online, and the things you can find by word of mouth, often through your instructor and other members of your airport community.

Basic retail items, such as flashlights, protractors, multitools, and tablet cases, come in a range of prices, so you can shop around for the gear that fits your budget. Doing without brand names and special features can add up to big savings.

Things get interesting when you start perusing the classifieds. Whether you are searching on eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or regional and local sites, you might be surprised by how much of the stuff you need is available on the used market. I found a Bendix KX-99 handheld comm radio going for $50 on my local Craigslist.

Years ago, friends in Maine turned me on to a marketplace site called Uncle Henry’s, which, they said, was for people who think Craigslist has gotten too fancy. I found a range of aviation equipment there, including winter covers for aircraft and skis, which are popular up north. A student might pass on these items for now, but two “lightly used” David Clark H10 headsets with an asking price of $300 are worth a look.     

• READ MORE: When Is the Best Time To Take the Test?

Many pilots will tell you the aviation headset gave them their worst case of sticker shock as new students. When I took my first flying lessons in 1988, right after college, I did not have a headset and simply used the Cessna 152’s built-in speaker and microphone—money saved and hearing acuity lost, I suspect.

These days, I consider the headset a necessity. A good one with active noise reduction will cost more than you think it should, but they last a long time and boost a pilot’s quality of life. You can also get a good deal on a used set. In my case, I paid my instructor a couple hundred bucks for an older Lightspeed model with noise reduction. I remember thinking the price was too high but soon learned it was a great value. Today, 10 years later, the set still works fine and remains in use, though mostly as a spare for passengers.

I like to think I saved the best option for last. Airport communities can be wonderful resources for all sorts of supplies, and pilots generally love to recycle. They are also good sources of advice regarding what to buy and where. Over the years, I have received and given lots of airplane necessities, from spare nuts, bolts, and screws to quarts of engine oil, tools, and electronics.

Often fellow pilots will give you what you need for a fraction of the retail cost. More often they will say, “Oh, just take it.”

The post Where To Find Pilot Gear on a Budget appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared on Plane & Pilot.

It can be a challenge to find a watch designed for female aviators specifically. Aviation watches can be large for female wrists and aesthetically unappealing for women’s sensibilities. Abingdon Co. was founded by Abingdon Mullin to help fill this market niche for timepieces. 

The company has launched a new watch series, Legends, created to pay homage to women aviators who have broken barriers throughout history. To kick off the series, Abingdon Co. has created a small batch of commemorative watches in collaboration with the National WASP WWII Museum to honor the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), who flew military planes to transport and test them, trained male pilots, and towed targets for live ammunition practice. 

According to the company’s release, only 1,102 watches will be created, in honor of the 1,102 WASP who served during WWII, as a tribute to those aviators. The limited-edition watches come in two color options, silver and two-tone, include a brown leather band, and start at $775.

The watch face features the official WASP wings insignia, and the words “WASP – Women Airforce Service Pilots” are engraved on the back. The number 38 is placed on the dial in memory of the 38 WASP who died in service. The watch has four hands, can track three time zones, and has a date function. 

Mullin, a pilot and founder and CEO of Abingdon Co. said in the release, “This watch is more than just a symbol of gratitude and respect. It is a reminder of the importance of breaking down barriers and fighting for what is right. The WASP were pioneers in their field, and they paved the way for generations of women to pursue careers in aviation and other male-dominated industries.”

In addition to selling the limited-edition watches, Abingdon Co. will gift 14 watches to the remaining 14 WASP who live across the U.S. The brand says it will also expand the WASP collection to include a gun metal watch, offered in a special collectors box in August.

Lisa Taylor, executive director of the National WASP WWII Museum, said, “What an honor for the WASP to be first in Abingdon’s Legends Collection. First-class pilots memorialized on a world-class watch. This timeless piece will bring joy as it keeps my heroes and mentors, the WASP, ever on my mind. I’ve always wanted an Abingdon, and today is the day.”

The post Abingdon Co. Launches Watch Series Honoring Female Aviators appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Aviation is resplendent with items that can make great presents for the pilot or flying aficionado. We share a few of our favorite ideas with you – especially if you find yourself shopping at the last minute.

Discovery Flight

Most flight schools offer these introductory flights as a means of attracting new clientele. The flight is usually about 20 minutes to half an hour, and the client, under the watchful guidance of a flight instructor, gets to fly the airplane. Some flight schools offer discounts around the holidays—the $99 discovery flight is very popular. Gift certificates for discovery flights are also an option.

If you purchase one of these flights, make sure to ask what type of airplane is used for the intro flight. Oftentimes,the flight school will use the aircraft in its fleet with the lowest operating cost—such as a Cessna 150—which can limit the size of the person taken on the flight. Do not be surprised if the school asks for the height and weight of the client, as there are fewer things more disappointing than going to the airport expecting to fly and finding out it is not possible because the holder of the gift certificate cannot fit in the aircraft. Cost: $99 and up.

Block Hours

Nothing says “I love you” like block hours of aircraft rental at an FBO or flight school. Many schools offer a block rate for training, so take advantage of this and put money on the pilot’s account.

This Article First Appeared in FLYING Magazine

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Block hours are not just for aircraft—there are some FBOs that have AATDs (advanced aviation training devices) that allow customers to book block time in them as well. The latter is greatly appreciated in the winter months, when flyable days become the exception rather than the rule. Cost: $200 to $1,000.

Aviation-Themed Ties

You probably know someone who is or soon will be interviewing at the airlines or an FBO for a pilot job. Help them dress the part with an aviation-themed tie. Keep it classy, keep it understated. You might even want to get them two: one with images of World War II warbirds or vintage GA aircraft and one with jets. Ties like these can be just the right accessory for an aviation-related job interview or a holiday party. Cost: $25 and up.

Aviation Flashlight

An aviation flashlight with multiple colored bulbs—red, green, white—is always appreciated. You can never have too many. Be on the lookout for flashlights that have a clip that allows them to be attached to a collar or shoulder harness for hands-free operation. Another option is the flashlight with a magnetic base or a rotating head that allows the beam to be targeted hands-free in a specific location—these are especially appreciated during maintenance operations. You get bonus points if you include a pack of batteries with the flashlight. Cost: $10 to $80.

Flight Jackets

Flight jackets and pilots go hand in hand. At the lower end of the financial scale are the cotton and nylon blends in the MA-1 and A-2 styles. They come in a variety of colors ranging from traditional military colors (olive, blue, and black) to the more fashionable options of pink and maroon. Some are preloaded with “mission patches” while others leave plenty of blank space so your aviator can add his or her own.

Leather jackets are more expensive. Keep in mind the classic World War II styles, such as the A-2, B-15, and B-3, run smaller by modern standards, so you may want to buy a size up from what the person usually wears. If you purchase the jacket second hand and it smells a little “vintage,” you can refresh it by placing the jacket in an airtight plastic bag along with fresh-scent dryer sheets. Leave the jacket in the bag for about a week to dispel any odors. Vintage leather jackets are more expensive and, depending on the age, more delicate—keep this in mind if you are looking for a jacket that will be worn. Cost: $55 to $1,200.

Aviation Spark Plug Holder

If you are shopping for an aviation mechanic or owner who maintains their aircraft, consider an aviation spark plug holder as a gift. Working on an aircraft engine is a precise task and having a spark plug holder makes it that much easier. Gift certificates to aviation tool supply companies are also appreciated. Cost: $35 to $100.

Hot Wings Runway Playset

For the younger aviation fan—and the young at heart—there are all sorts of aircraft toys on the market.

Die-cast metal toys are particularly popular, especially for CFIs who use them as teaching tools. The Hot Wings company makes several play sets that range from individual aircraft with a piece of foam rubber “runway” all the way up to a hangar and control tower with runway and ramp extensions. Cost: $11 to $30.

Citizen Promaster Blue Angels Skyhawk Watch

A wristwatch has been synonymous with aviation since the 1920s. Pocket watches just weren’t terribly practical in open-cockpit aircraft because they could be dropped too easily. In addition, the watch had to have a large face (because you’re reading it as you bounce around the cockpit) and large buttons and knobs that would allow you to make adjustments while wearing flight gloves. If you’re looking for a modern pilot watch for a gift, consider the Citizen Promaster Blue Angels Skyhawk A-T.

This watch features a stainless-steel case chronograph, perpetual calendar, dual time zones, alarms, a countdown timer, a digital backlight and UTC display, and power reserve. This watch utilizes Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology, which means it is powered by light; therefore, it never needs a battery. The watch also has a pilot’s rotating E6B-style slide rule bezel. This model appears in a stainless-steel case and bracelet. The dial features the colors and the insignia of the Blue Angels, the Navy precision flight demonstration team. Cost: $600 to $750.

Flight/ Gear Bags

Pilots always need a gear bag. Find one that fits your pilot’s needs, or get this as a gift for yourself. Do you need a place to put an iPad? Do you need one with two headset pockets? Washable bags made from nylon or another fabric are wonderful because they are easy to keep clean. The more expensive leather bags look more professional, though, and they tend to be more durable. The bags can also be personalized with a monogram.

It’s not uncommon for pilots to have multiple gear bags—you may one day find that you have more than you need. Suggestion: If this is you, consider donating that extra gear bag to your local foster care system. The children who are in foster care often lack luggage, and when they are moved from place to place, they are frequently forced to carry their belongings in trash bags. These kids already feel disposable—think what it could do for their self-esteem to have a gently used nylon gear bag to carry their belongings. Cost: $20 to $250.

Collectible Ornaments

Collectible aviation tree ornaments are very popular. Each year, Sporty’s Pilot Shop has a new design—this year it is an Ercoupe, celebrating the classic single.

Hallmark has been in the game for decades as well—expect to see a Republic RC-3 Seabee from them. For models from past years, search eBay and Amazon. Cost: $19 to $35 (more for past years).

Pivot EFB Mounts

Pivot makes several mounts to hold electronic flight bags (EFBs). These devices provide both instrument protection and make for a neater cockpit. These devices are easy to install and remove with a universal mounting system so upgrading or exchanging devices is quick and simple. Cost: $150.

Aloha Pilot Shirts

In the spirit of “aloha,” or affection and fellowship in Hawaiian, Pilot Quarters recently released a series of polo, casual, and camp shirts suitable for pilots sharing the joy of flying. Within the Hawaii Collection, sectional charts from the islands are screened onto cloth in a variety of colors and routes. Men’s, women’s, and youth sizes and styles are available. Cost: $48 to $75.

This article was originally published in the December 2022/January 2023 Issue 933 of FLYING.

The post Gifts for Aviation Buffs appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

I still remember the first time I wore an active noise reduction (ANR) headset—I had thousands of hours underneath a pair of 1980s-era David Clarks—when I hit the power on button, there was a noticeable reduction in noise, and transmissions became more clear. I understood why the Bose A20s were so popular with pilots. That was back in 2010. The latest generation of Bose headset, the A30, was released Tuesday, and although it may be hard to believe, it is an improvement on the A20 in several ways.

The Weight

Right out of the bag, the A30 is slightly lighter than the A20. How much? According to Bose, the A30 tips the scale at 14.2 ounces, and the A20 is 14.46. While that’s not much of a difference according to Bose, you will note that the A30 has less clamping force. That’s because the weight of the A30 is distributed differently along the headband.

The headband of the A30 is a different style than in the A20. The A30 has a pivot spring rather than a hinge like the A20. Also, the headband padding on the A30 is more streamlined and effective than the faux fur-like band of the A20. Both result in less clamp force, which tends to give the impression that the A30 is significantly and noticeably lighter than the A20.The cups on the A30 sit lower on the ears, giving the wearer a feeling of stability.

The battery compartment for the A30, like the A20, is easily accessible without the need for tools.

On the exterior of the battery compartment, there is a switch to adjust the sensitivity of the headset using a scale of high, medium, and low modes.

High mode is recommended for louder cockpit environments such as the propeller-driven aircraft that dominate the training fleet.

The medium mode, designed for business jets, wasn’t quite enough for the situation.

There is also a low mode, recommended for commercial airliners and jets, or when a pilot needs to engage in interpersonal communication outside the intercom.

When the high and medium modes are engaged, the A30 has tap control for talk-through communication. Tapping an ear cup twice reduces the noise canceling in that ear to the low setting so you can hear your copilot without having to remove the ear cup altogether.

The operation switch functions are located inside the battery compartment. The switches vary from model to model. There are Tap Control, Priority, Intercom, Auto Off, and Auto On switches. You need a small tool to press these switches, like a pen or tiny screwdriver.

The headset cable can be mounted on either side of the headset without using tools. It can be reset to dress left or right by unplugging and plugging it in on the other side, similar to unplugging or plugging in a smartphone on a charger. For pilots who don’t like cables all over the cockpit, this is a bonus. The cable has two clips to secure it in place no matter which side of the cockpit you want it on.

The carrying case for the A30 is designed for maximum protection and minimal space disruption in your flight bag. It is smaller than that of the A20 and has a zipper pouch for extra batteries. The zippers move easily, and you do not have to wrestle the headset into the bag.

Headset plugs and cables take a beating, especially at the flight school level. Bose recognized this and, during a press conference at Sun ‘n Fun, assured members of the press that the headset went through no fewer than 145 tests to determine its durability during the five years it was under development.

FLYING had the opportunity to test the headset before release. It started with a few laps in the pattern focusing on the volume and clarity of the transmission. There were no issues, so it was time for the more advanced test.

Flight Test

For the first test, I flew a 1976 Cessna 172 from the left seat. The aircraft, known as  “Babe,” belongs to Jack, one of my learners. It is loud inside the cockpit as it has minimal interior soundproofing. Jack did the flying while I focused on communications. We went out for a scenic flight on a chamber of commerce blue sky day—it was the first one we had in Seattle in a long time, so everyone, it seemed, was taking advantage of the good weather. Everybody and their dog and their dog’s dog was up. This was not a day to miss or drop a transmission.

The first task was to launch out of Pierce County Thun Field, a non-towered airport, and head west toward Tacoma Narrows Airport, a Class D facility. It is a short flight; ergo it is radio intensive. I wanted the experience of tower communications. The airport is a busy reliever for Sea-Tac and has several flight schools, and they all seemed to have people in the air that day. I had no issues hearing the tower, and they did not have issues hearing me at either the towered or pilot-controlled airport.

I experimented with the high, medium, and low modes en route. My copilot could hear me on all three modes, but I heard him best on high.

The next day I took the A30 into the ‘family’ Cessna 182. Justin, one of my airport sons who is a CFI, assisted. The C182 is a more powerful and louder airplane than the 172, but I am pleased to note I did not have to make significant adjustments to the A30. We headed to the south practice area and pulled up Seattle approach to keep an ear on traffic. Although we did not obtain flight following, we listened for ATC clearing aircraft to the IFR fixes in our vicinity. I experimented with the tap controls and found them most effective.

The Devil in the Details

We take headset testing very seriously here at FLYING, so I put the headset in every possible configuration I could think of. I started with the A30 wearing a baseball cap with one of those annoying buttons on the top—and then flying with a cap sans the button. On some headsets, the headband catches on the button, and this makes the ear cups fit poorly. The A30 did not have an issue when worn with either cap style.

You can get the hood-style view limiting device over the A30 with minimal effort, or wear the foggle style devices.

The sunglasses test was next. I have sunglasses with around-the-ear wires and bayonet-style earpieces. Both styles interfaced nicely with the A30.

Because of the reduced clamp force, I was concerned that the headset would take leave from my ears in turbulence—some vigorous side-to-side head movement as if searching anxiously for traffic did not dislodge the headset in any cap/sunglasses combo.

There is a Bluetooth option to allow wireless connection to mobile devices, audio systems, and electronic flight bags. Users can configure it to audio with intercom audio or have intercom transmission muted. Users can mix Bluetooth audio with intercom audio or have intercom transmissions mute Bluetooth temporarily.

The A30 retails for $1,249, approximately $50 more than the A20.

Bose officials note the A20 will not be available after current stock in the hands of distributors is exhausted; however, the company will continue to support the headset.

The post Bose A30 Aviation Headset Review appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

One of the most heartbreaking events in aviation is when the fixed-wing pilot applicant discovered that a flight they used to meet the cross-county requirements of a particular certificate or rating does not meet the legal definition of FAR 61.1(b)(1), which states “time must include a landing at least a straight line distance of more than 50 nm from the original point of departure.” 

This distance is measured using a plotter on a visual flight rule (VFR) sectional—sometimes that can be a challenge as more and more aspiring aviators are using electronic versions of the sectionals rather than paper. 

That is, unless you reference a sectional that makes your airport the center of the universe and the 50 nm distance (or more) is marked with concentric circles. That’s the concept behind the Custom-Designed Aviation Charts from aviatorproducts.com

Founder and southern California pilot Edward Gonzalez designed the first Custom-Designed Aviation Chart as a gift for his son, who had just earned his private pilot certificate “at KSN /Santa Ana—where I earned my ticket some thirty odd years ago,” the elder Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez is a commercial photographer and has always admired VFR sectionals as having an artistic quality to them. 

He combined that with the concept of the route depicting maps like the ones you see in the back of airline inflight magazines and put the concept on poster paper. Proud of his creation, Gonzalez posted a picture of the chart on Facebook, and soon heard from other aviation enthusiasts who wanted to know where to get one like it.

This led to creating a web page to market it, “and the orders started rolling in,” he said.

Custom Charts

As the name implies, the custom chart centers on the customer’s airport of choice and has overlaid concentric circles, which you can customize in intervals ranging from 100 nm to 500 nm, as each chart is made-to-order. They come in a variety of sizes and can be printed on fabric or acrylic. Customers can also add a company logo or a personal message.

At this point, the charts are only available for U.S. airspace. The custom charts are more durable than a sectional thumbtacked to the wall as they don’t tear easily or fade from age.

“It is a material that is thicker than the paper used for standard aviation charts. It also has a nice semi-gloss finish,” Gonzalez said. “As for the detail, the chart is based on FAA material, [and] the detail and beauty of their charts is stunning—it is essentially artwork so it belongs on prominent display. 

“The first version was essentially the VFR planning chart with concentric circles overlaid onto it,” he added. “As part of that initial design, I also added the simulated mat border around the image. I think it really dresses up the presentation, and like the circles, adds a unique feature not found on standard aviation charts.”

The larger charts come in vinyl or fabric, as the material it is printed on makes a difference, says Gonzalez. “For instance, in order to offer the print in larger sizes, 9 feet wide by 6 feet high and 12 feet wide by 8 feet high—I learned that vinyl prints with an adhesive back offered an ideal solution. I then learned that prints could be done on this tight-weave fabric material. The fabric allows for even larger prints, and grommets around the perimeter provide a simple solution for hanging the print. Absolutely my favorite material though are prints on acrylic—they are a beautiful showpiece and truly a conversation starter.”

According to Gonzalez, customers are using the charts for quick planning, teaching aids, and to mark the airports where they have been.

“We have one client that already has several hundred pins on his chart and is trying to reach a thousand,” he said.

The charts are made in the U.S. The lag time from order to delivery is approximately two weeks. The company is establishing a nationwide network of trusted partners that can print and provide local pick-up or delivery of oversized items, thus eliminating the charge for oversized freight.

The post This Map Will Make the World Revolve Around Your Airport appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

A friend recently asked if pilot watches are still “a thing,” given the many devices, both portable and panel-mounted, that are available for telling time in flight. I told him they certainly are, but for different reasons today than when Charles Lindbergh and Wiley Post were crossing oceans.

In fact, I have spent the last several weeks flying with a new pilot watch, the AVI-8 Hawker Hunter Atlas Dual Time Chronograph, which has taken the place of a sports watch that had become my default flying timepiece.

The new watch, with multiple dials, a rotating bezel, and red trim, is eye-catching compared with the admittedly bland model it replaced on my wrist. But I wondered if it would add anything to the flying experience beyond the convenience that makes any watch a relevant pilot tool. 

A Cockpit Helper

Having a watch still makes flying easier and safer. When I was learning to fly, my instructor made it clear that a watch was part of my required survival gear, along with a Leatherman tool and flashlight. This was not because the analog clock in the panel of the Cessna 172 trainer had stopped. A watch with a rotating bezel was simply handier for timing my travel along the 10-nm increments of the course lines I drew on the sectional chart—and for knowing when my hour was up.

As GPS and other digital avionics made their way into the cockpit, I continued to use my watch for quick reference. Glancing at one’s wrist for a time check seems so natural. These days, though, my concern with time has more to do with transporting kids to and from school and sports practices than precise navigation.

Charms of the Past

This is where the AVI-8 watch began to shine. Some of its features, including an additional hour hand I used to mark Zulu time, made it more useful and fun. Its old-fashioned charm encouraged me to brush up on pilotage skills and renew my subscription for paper sectional charts. Last weekend I flew to a couple of distant airports to which I had soloed as a student, without referring to GPS. It was just like old times.

Speaking of truly old times, watches were vital instruments during the early decades of aviation because time was an element in nearly every calculation pilots made, such as distance traveled, fuel burn, and correcting for wind. After his famous transatlantic flight, Lindbergh worked with Longines to develop an “hour angle” watch that made it easier for pilots to plot their position by tracking the earth’s rotation.

Today modern avionics make so many calculations for us that watches can seem like little more than decorations. And what is wrong with that?

What it Means Today

This is where things become subjective. I believe the right watch—one with a reasonably large face, sturdy metal case, and some weight to it—can be such a pleasure to use that a pilot would not depart without it. I notice that several of my flying friends who, like me, were impressionable children in the 1970s when general aviation was booming, have developed an affinity for period-appropriate accessories that match the V-Tail Beech Bonanzas, Piper Comanches, and in my case, Commanders that they fly. The right watch is a vital component of the overall effect. Call it nostalgia, with a little vanity thrown in.

When you are happily aloft in your aircraft, headed to one of your favorite destinations and feeling in command, like John Wayne in The High and the Mighty, checking the time on a watch that looks great, feels substantial and makes you smile, and can add to the joy of flying.

Besides, if you find yourself flying with a partial panel you might need a way to time those standard-rate turns. Either way, AVI-8 can help.

The post Does the Pilot Watch Still Have a Role in the Cockpit? appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

If a picture is worth a thousand words, a collection of photographs can tell the whole story, as is the case with Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art, a visual record of A-2 jackets from World War II as seen through the lens of award-winning photographer John Slemp.

In addition to being a professional photographer, Slemp is an aviation enthusiast. His interest in photographing flight jackets began when he took photographs of a jacket that belonged to the uncle of a friend.

Slemp’s photographs are done like formal portraits, with artistic lighting. In an interview with FLYING last March, Slemp explained that the book was born when he sent an email with a few images of the first jacket to Dorothy Cochran, the curator at the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum. He met Cochran through one of his aviation clients, but it was the museum’s curator of the Aviation Clothing collection who replied to his email, asking if Slemp would be interested in photographing the museum’s jacket collection—and how soon could he be there?

• READ MORE: Flight Jackets—More Than a Fashion Statement, They’re a Rite of Passage

Slemp, who hails from Atlanta, Georgia, spent the next few months traveling around the country with a portable studio, photographing flight jackets that belonged to individuals or were in the custody of aviation museums. Among the collections he photographed were the 390th Memorial Museum in Arizona, along with several museums in California, including March Field Museum in Riverside; the 475th Fighter Group at Planes of Fame Museum in Chino; the San Diego Air & Space Museum; and the Allen Airways Museum in El Cajon. Other facilities visited include the Indiana Military Museum, the Kalamazoo Air Zoo, the Minnesota Historical Society, the Lowndes County Historical Society, the National Naval Aviation Museum, and the National Museum of the United States Air Force.

In addition to the more than 100 photographs, the book contains interviews relaying personal accounts of the service personnel who wore the jackets during their time in the U.S. Army Air Corps. The book also delves into the construction and manufacturing of these highly prized and highly collectible jackets, the process for designing the artwork on them, and the way these jackets have influenced fashion over the years. 

The 12 x 12, 398-page coffee table book is available for $129.95 from wwiibomberboys.com.

The post Coffee Table Book Celebrates WWII Flight Jacket Art appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

A timepiece of some kind is required equipment for pilots, as it is critical for determining ground speed, aircraft fuel endurance, and deduced reckoning (aka “dead reckoning,” a topic for another feature). Since the invention of the smartphone, wrist-mounted timepieces have waned in popularity, although some pilots still prefer them, as do flight departments that have rules on the appearance of the watch. While you can use the clock in the instrument panel—it does work, doesn’t it?—a watch may be easier to manipulate while you’re in flight. 

If you choose to wear a watch when you fly, the type of watch you select is very much like choosing an airplane—you must evaluate the mission, the functions provided by the timepiece, the aesthetic options of the device, and the price. And they don’t have to take up your entire wrist to work well. 

Garmin D2 Mach 1 

The name Garmin is synonymous with aviation—it’s hard to find an aircraft that doesn’t have a piece of Garmin tech on the flight deck. Garmin introduced smartwatches to the aviation world in 2013 with the D2 Pilot Watch. It stepped up its game in March 2022 with the introduction of the Garmin D2 Mach 1. 

According to Garmin spokesperson Carly Hysell, “The D2 Mach 1—and Garmin’s full D2 smartwatch line—are definitely targeted to aviators and aviation enthusiasts, but the series also attracts non-pilots/enthusiasts who want a smartwatch with aviator styling.” 

I was given the opportunity to test-fly the Garmin D2 Mach 1 model shortly after its release. I first encountered the Mach 1 model at the Aircraft Electronics Association International Convention and Trade Show. 

Full disclosure: I have bad luck with watches. The Mickey Mouse watch I got for my eighth birthday didn’t make it with me to 8 and a half. The sports watches I had in high school (three in all) didn’t make it to college. For the amount of money I have spent on watches over the past 20 years, I could easily finance a cruise down the Rhine. I was wary about wearing the D2 Mach 1—which has a price tag of $1,199 for a leather watch band, and $1,299 if you opt for titanium. 

I shared this information with Hysell, who quickly showed me the Garmin smartwatch she wore on her wrist and called her coworkers over to show off their D2 Mach 1 watches and extol their virtues—one of which is that it is rechargeable. This is important since one of my special talents is running down watch batteries before their time—and then the watch usually self-destructs from the inside. 

The Mach 1 is basically a multi-function computer that’s small enough to fit on your wrist. The face is larger than the women’s pilot watch I have been wearing since 2013 (the Amelia, produced by the Abingdon Watch Co.—more on them later—the watch earned the designation “Meg Proof” in December 2021). The size of the Mach 1 concerned me as I have worn other pilot watches that felt like boat anchors. The Mach 1, however, is surprisingly light and has a plethora of apps. Because it is a Garmin product and Garmin is synonymous with digital flight deck tools, expect to find a watch that includes apps for weather, health assessment, and navigation. 

Mach 1 Design—and Learning Curve 

The Mach 1 has a round dial that has both digital and analog numerical presentations that, with one touch, can pull up multiple functions ranging from the ability to receive automatic alerts for changing weather conditions, METARs, and—when paired with the Garmin Pilot app—navigation. The health apps on the watch include a Pulse Ox3 sensor to monitor your blood oxygen levels and a barometric altimeter for altitude alerts. According to Garmin, using the Health Snapshot feature, the wearer can monitor their sleep, track respiration, monitor energy, track hydration and all-day stress, and monitor their heart rate 24/7. It appeared the Mach 1 could replace my analog pilot watch, smartphone, Garmin GPS, and Fitbit in one fell swoop. 

Like other Garmin products, there are video tutorials online to help you get the most out of the device. You can set it up for the apps you want the most. I spent part of the test with the watch configured to deliver email, but then canceled that because it made it difficult to disengage from work. Instead, I focused on the best apps for the cockpit.

I wore the Mach 1 on several flights. As the aircraft I was flying had only one radio, I found it most useful as a device for checking weather along the route. While my client was busy flying and talking to ATC, I was pulling up the METARs and TAFs on my wrist. It was a scattered-clouds day, and we flew in and out of direct sunlight, yet I was still able to read the face of the watch. If you have had to do an advanced yoga pose to see the face of your tablet clearly in a sun-filled cockpit, you will appreciate this. 

While my learner focused on flying in VFR conditions, I monitored our progress on the Mach 1 moving map. The device also has a horizontal situation indicator utilizing the worldwide database. I am not sure I’d be able to shoot an approach off my wrist, but it would be most useful for situational awareness if the instruments in the panel and the iPad tanked during IFR flight. 

One of the best apps provides weather alerts—it was nice to get a heads up about approaching thunderstorms—they were moving a lot faster than the morning weather briefing suggested they would be. 

Another bonus, the watch has an electronic version of the chart supplement, providing information about runway orientation, lengths, wind components, and airport frequencies. 

For efficiency, the Garmin Mach 1 can be connected to the Garmin Pilot app to transfer flight plans to the watch, and it has the ability to log your flights directly on the watch. 

By the end of the test, I also pronounced the watch “Meg Proof.”

Tactical Watches by Abingdon 

Putting on my CFI hat: One of the benefits of the analog timepiece is that it helps teach the learner where to look for traffic, as ATC issues its notifications using an analog clock in reference to the aircraft. Over the last 10 years, I have noticed a decrease in the number of people who can tell time with an analog timepiece—I learned of this paradigm shift during a morning flight when ATC warned us of traffic at 3 o’clock and the learner asked why the controller was warning us about traffic in the future? Just as the ability to read and write cursive has become a lost art, the ability to tell time with an analog device is becoming generational. The terms “big hand” and “little hand” are being lost to the ages. 

Sometimes your vocation determines what kind of watch you wear. People who work in security-sensitive industries, such as law enforcement or the military, are often prohibited from using any smart devices while on the job because most apps are geographically trackable. You’ve probably seen this function before—which is why all those geographically appropriate advertisements start popping up on your social feeds after you search for a place, service, or thing. 

The need for a non-trackable yet sturdy timepiece was behind the development of the Jane Tactical Watch by the Abingdon Watch Company based in Las Vegas, Nevada. The company was established in 2007 by Chelsea Abingdon Welch (now Mullin), an aspiring pilot at the time who sought to create a pilot’s watch for women—that evolved into designing and creating watches for “women who do more,” as the website states. There is a line of watches designed for pilots, sportswomen, divers, motorsports enthusiasts—and now women involved in so-called tactical professions. 

“Women in the military are a large share of the Abingdon Watch Co. audience,” Mullin explains. “The ‘Jane’ Tactical Watch was designed with them in mind. Some of the watches, such as the ‘Jackie,’ with its faux diamonds, and the ‘Marina,’ with mother-of-pearl face, can be a bit too blingy for women in uniform. They were looking for something they could wear with fatigues.” 

A consortium of women made up of different branches of the military, competitive shooters, livestock farmers, and law enforcers spent eight months creating the Jane Tactical Watch. 

“These women didn’t know each other, but they all wanted a watch for them. Women like this are very often an afterthought when it comes to watch design,” Mullin says. 

Abingdon’s Jane Design 

The face of the watch is about the size of a U.S. 50-cent piece. There is a ruler etched on the caseback and strap, and the watch is water resistant to a depth of approximately 200 meters. The watch features a stainless steel case, a bi-directional compass inner bezel, a unidirectional diver’s outer bezel, and two screw-locked double-gasket crowns. 

The watch features Ameriquartz caliber 7122 movement with day and date functions. American movement was key, notes Mullin, adding, “It is our number one selling watch right now, and this is the first watch to have all American movement in more than 50 years. The watch was designed to be both useful and elegant.” 

The Jane Tactical Watch comes in a variety of colors and watch band combinations. The Jane Tactical Watch Outlaw (the gold face) and the Jane Tactical Watch Mission (red face) both sport an interior face compass, luminous hands and hour markings for night vision, along with a diver’s bezel for quick timing. 

I opted to test-fly the Mission model. I chose the rubber watchband for durability and comfort—other options include leather, lizard-skin, and metal. One of the first things I did after setting the watch to the correct time was to head outside and use the position of the sun and the analog watch face to determine north. It’s basic, but I learned it in the Girl Scouts and practice it on a semi-regular basis. Then, I tested the timing features along the diver’s bezel. The watch has a good weight to it—it feels sturdy without being overbearing— and for someone who is looking for a rugged timepiece that is straightforward and durable, this watch should work well. 

Abingdon watches can be purchased online at Abingdonco.com and pilot supply shops—and also at Macy’s department stores through a recent marketing deal made with the historic retailer. The price for the Jane is around $629. 

The Wristwatch Comes to America

The wristwatch became part of a pilot’s equipment thanks in part to its use on the battlefield during World War I. A watch was a necessary tool to be used for timing artillery shells; and before attacks, the soldiers would synchronize their watches. British soldiers had wristwatches, sometimes called “bracelet watches” by Americans who were still using pocket watches. Some American soldiers brought the wristwatches home from the war, having found them much easier to use than pocket watches, which were a bit cumbersome on the battlefield. 

During the so-called “golden age” of aviation that followed the war, deduced reckoning, a time-dependent form of navigation, called for the use of a timepiece—and wristwatches gained popularity. In addition, the U.S. military issued basic windup watches, and one of the techniques taught to avoid the hazardous attitude of impulsivity was to wind the watch three times before acting.

Finding North Using an Analog Watch

The watch must be operational and the time accurate for this to work. 

1) Lay the watch flat horizontally in your palm, with the watch face up. 

2) Position the watch so the hour hand is pointing directly at the sun. 

3) Note the angle between the hour hand and the 12 o’clock mark. The center of the angle marks the north-south line, with south on the side closest to the sun. 

Please remember that this information is in standard time. Daylight Savings Time is a government construct that the universe does not follow; ergo, when the watch is set to DST, substitute 1 o’clock for 12 o’clock. 

The post Choosing a Pilot Watch appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

A pilot’s first solo is a huge deal in the path towards becoming a certificated pilot and enjoying the freedom of creating your own flight journeys. In aviation tradition, the occasion is usually marked with the instructor cutting off the shirttail from the T-shirt in which the student first soloed. 

This tradition is symbolic of the day when the student is cut loose from the instructor’s grip. Often these shirttails are framed and hung on a wall, to be displayed for other students and pilots to see. 

Aeroswag, an aviation e-commerce website, wants to create a new tradition where student pilots can commemorate their first solo with a printed version of the sectional from their home airport duplicated onto a number of gift items, including cell phone cases, coffee mugs, stickers, notepads, water bottles, and socks. The idea is that the student pilot can show off their aviation accomplishment in a meaningful way. 

While the student’s first solo flight is one of the primary use cases of Aeroswag’s custom sectional items, pilots also order products from their home base or other favorite airports. 

The process of ordering a custom printed item with the selected airport is simple. The website immediately recognizes where the user is located using Google’s mapping function, then displays the area airports on the sectional in the area. If they wish to select an airport outside the area, they can easily move the sectional map to another location. 

The user selects their home or favorite airport, clicks it, and sees the sample images of items with the sectional embedded onto the product catalog. The user chooses the items they want, and they are mailed to them a few days later. 

I decided to test out the process, ordering socks, stickers, notepads, and phone cases for a few of my favorite airports. I found the process simple and now have outfitted my cellphone with a phone case that has the Chattanooga (KCHA) sectional and a pair of socks that feature the Solberg Airport (N51), the airport I fly out of when spending time in New Jersey during the summer. 

Aeroswag also has a large catalog of aviation related images and gifts and hopes to offer custom “long-tail” gifts for pilots and the aviation community. 

The post Aeroswag Turns Sectionals into Aviation Mementos appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Advisory circulars from the FAA used to be sent to pilots via the U.S. mail. They were printed on blue paper and sometimes arrived with such frequency you felt like you were on Hogan’s Heroes—every message that the characters on that classic TV show got from London came on blue paper.

A great many of those ACs focused on weather—how to get a good weather briefing, mountain flying, thunderstorms, etc. Now all that information is available in FAA-H-8083-28, the newly updated version of the Aviation Weather Handbook.

The 532-page handbook is subdivided into three parts:

• Part 1: Overview of the United States Aviation Weather Service Program and Information.
• Part 2: Weather Theory and Aviation Hazards.
• Part 3: Technical Details Relating to Weather Products and Aviation Weather Tools.

The handbook features color illustrations and bullet point presentations that make the sometimes complex nature of weather easier to understand.

A Few Highlights

Chapter 2 provides an overview of aviation weather information. A few things that will jump out to instructors and savvy pilots include a detailed account of what to expect in a standard briefing, the order in which the information is delivered, the color coding used for METARs (spoiler alert: purple and red mean no VFR flight today).

Chapter 16 on Mountain Weather should be a must read by all pilots, as lack of knowledge in these areas in particular can lead to accidents. You have probably heard about a pilot who chose to fly close to those ‘really cool looking clouds’ to get a photograph and ended up in a bad situation.

Chapter 18, Obstructions to Visibility does an excellent job of explaining fog, mist, and haze.

Note the message: “mist may be considered an intermediate between fog and haze,” which is an excellent way to explain the phenomenon to aviators who are visual learners.

Chapter 22, Thunderstorms, goes into greater detail than in previous FAA publications, in particular on what to do if you inadvertently enter a thunderstorm—read it and then file it under “Things You Hope You Never Have to Know.”

The Aviation Weather Handbook is available in both e-format and hardcopy.

The post FAA Releases New Weather Handbook appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

When shopping for the perfect watch—whether it is a gift for yourself or you’re shopping for a pilot—there are many things to consider before you make the purchase. Are you looking for a digital watch with all the latest features and functionality, or are you looking for a statement piece inspired by an historic aircraft? In this gift guide, we’ll show you some of our favorites in both categories that would make excellent gifts for pilots. Looking for more gifts to give other than a watch? Check out our guide on the best gifts for pilots.

Quicklook: Pilot Watches to Give

1. Garmin D2 Mach 1:  Best for piloting and everyday use
2. Garmin D2 Air X10: Best for those looking for a watch only for aviation
3. Apple Watch Series 7: Best for active pilots who don’t need full integration
4. Avi-8 Matador Chronograph Bronze Carbon: Best for exposed watch movement
5. Timex x Pan-Am Chronograph: Best for a pilot watch on a budget
6. Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T: Best for pilots who want to honor the Blue Angels
7. Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph: Best for those wanting to make a statement

Digital Watches for Pilots

Many aviators are looking for the ultimate functionality in their pilot watches. From navigation to altimeter settings, even measuring oxygen levels and pulse during flight, the ultimate pilot watch must suit your  mission. Most are looking for a watch to perform well even when you’re not flying—or need the watch for navigating—such as during exercise or while golfing. We’ll break down our top choices for digital watches for pilots. 

Garmin D2 Mach 1

Garmin D2 Mach 1 is a top of the line pilot watch that offers a robust feature set for aviating, as well as for everyday life. One of our favorite features of the D2 Mach 1 is the moving map and radar overlay. The D2 Mach 1 has standard smartwatch connectivity including text, phone, and calendar alerts. For the aviator that also plays golf, the Mach 1 also has golf course maps available. This timepiece would make an excellent gift for any pilot. 

Specifications:

• Case size: 47 mm x 47 mm x 14.5 mm
• Screen: 1.3-inch diameter AMOLED
• Weight: 70 grams
• Battery life: up to 11 days in smartwatch mode; up to 24 hours in fly mode (GPS + pulse oximeter)
• Water resistance: 10 ATM (100 meters)
• Band material: titanium, silicone, or leather options available

Digital: Yes

GPS: Yes

Pulse Oximeter: Yes

Cell Phone Connectivity: Yes

Special Features: 

• Detailed health and wellness tracking
• More than 30 built-in sports apps
• Animated workouts
• Topo and golf course maps
• Smartphone notifications for text messages, calendar appointments, and more
• Store all your music on your watch, including Spotify playlists

Why We Chose This: Garmin has a long history of creating watches specifically for pilots, and the Garmin D2 Mach 1 is the ultimate in pilot watch technology. It automatically logs your health and wellness data as a part of your flight tracking when paired with the Garmin Pilot App, which can be great for situational awareness and learning from previous flights. It also has many features you would expect out of a modern smartwatch when you are not flying, making this a very compelling timepiece for any pilot, whether a professional pilot or a recreational pilot.

Pricing: $1,199 for the Leather Band

 $1,299 for the Titanium Band

Garmin D2 Air X10

The Garmin D2 Air X10 is the second Garmin watch to make the list, and it has some of the same features for pilots as the D2 Mach 1, with a lower price tag and fewer lifestyle features. Missing on this edition is the moving map and some of the built-in workout features—but it still automatically logs in-flight health data and automatically syncs with the Garmin Pilot App. This watch retains many of the D2 Mach 1, and it should be considered as a good gift for any pilot. 

Specifications

• Case size: 43.2 mm x 43.2 mm x 12.4 mm
• Weight: 1.6 ounces
• Battery life: up to 7 days in smartwatch mode or 20 hours in GPS/pulse oximeter mode
• Fits wrists with a circumference of 125 to 190 mm.
• Water resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)

Digital: Yes

GPS: Yes

Pulse Oximeter: Yes

Cell Phone Connectivity: Yes

Workout Features: Yes, but requires other fitness applications

Why we chose this: The D2 Air X10 is far lighter than the previous generations of pilot watches, and it has a feature set that any pilot will find helpful when flying. The automatic takeoff detection and syncing to the Garmin Pilot App make this a seamless accessory, and it can be useful in a pilot’s tool kit. Coming in at less than half the price of the D2 Mach 1, this watch is a great alternative and makes a good gift.

Pricing: $549 at Sporty’s

Mechanical Pilot Watches

Pilot watches are specifically designed for aviators. First created in the early 1920s, there are a few different features that make pilot watches unique. They typically have large cases so that they can be easily seen in flight, and often have color schemes making them legible to read during the day or at night. Many pilot watches have 24-hour scales on the dial, which allow pilots to keep track of time in multiple time zones simultaneously. Before the digital era, the pilot watch was often used as a tool for navigating, but today these watches are more often about fashion, history, and making a statement. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite pilot watches, ranging in price and complexity, to help you choose the perfect gift for a pilot or yourself.

Avi-8 Matador Chronograph Bronze Carbon

The Matador Chronograph is a part of the company’s Harrier series of watches, paying tribute to the Hawker Harrier Jump Jet (read a synopsis of Hawker company history here), an iconic aircraft known for a deep history in the late 19th century and flying in many military fleets. This watch is specifically named for the Spanish Naval version of the aircraft, which shares the nickname Matador.  

Specifications

• Movement: Japan quartz chronograph with 1/20 second and big date functions
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Case size: 45 mm x 52.6 mm x 15 mm
• Lens: Mineral lens with anti-reflective coating
• Band material: Leather
• Band width : 22 mm
• Water resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
• Weight: 100 grams

Warranty: Yes, 2 Years 

Digital: No

Why we chose this: 

This timepiece goes beyond eye candy with an exposed movement that simulates the aircraft that it is named for—the Matador—which was flown in the Spanish Navy. It is also great for those looking to stay within a lower price range compared to other watches with similar features.

Pricing: $330

Timex x Pan Am Chronograph

Timex x Pan Am Chronograph is a limited edition watch that honors the partnership between Timex and Pan Am. The history of the two companies intersects in many ways, with both brands iconic in their respective industries. Watches have always been an important part of pilot gear, and Timex has a long history of making watches for pilots. Pan American World Airways was founded in 1927 (the same year as FLYING), and quickly became one of the most successful airlines in the world. 

Specifications

• Watch movement: Quartz analog
• Case size: 42 mm x 20 mm x 12 mm
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Band color: Brown
• Case color: Stainless steel
• Strap width: 20 mm
• Attachment hardware color: Stainless steel
• Water resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)

Digital: No

GPS: No

Special Features: 

• Day and date window
• Stainless steel watch case

Why we chose this:

Pan Am operated the Douglas DC-3, which is a classic aircraft that holds a special place in many pilot’s hearts.

Pricing: $219 on Timex.com

Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T

The Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T is a pilot’s watch that was inspired by the Blue Angels, making it an ideal gift for any pilot or aviation enthusiast who holds the U.S. Navy demonstration team in high regard. 

Specifications

• Movement: Eco-drive (powered by any light source—no need for batteries)
• Band length: 228.6 mm
• Case diameter: 45 mm
• Lug width: 23.81 mm
• Case material: Two-tone stainless steel with the Blue Angels insignia replicated on the caseback
• Water resistance: 20 ATM (203 m/666 ft)

Digital: No

GPS: No

Why we chose this:

The Blue Angels have advanced aviation and inspired the next generation of aviators through their aerial performances. This watch celebrates the heritage and skill displayed by those pilots. 

Pricing: $750

Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph

The Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph has a long-standing aviation history. Designed in 1952 with a circular slide rule in order for pilots to be able to make necessary calculations in the air, this timepiece is loved by pilots all over the world. This watch has even made it to space in 1962. There are few other watches that host the variety of features this one does—while also making a statement—which is why the Navitimer has been placed in FLYING’s gift guides for many years.

Specifications

• Movement: Self-winding mechanical
• Case material: 18k red gold
• Case diameter: 46.0 mm
• Product weight (approx.): 153 grams
• Water resistance: 3 ATM (30 meters)

Digital: No

GPS: No

Why did we choose this:

The Breitling brand has a long history in aviation, including their sponsorship of the now-discontinued Breitling Jet Team, their partnership with AOPA, and their support of many efforts to promote aviation. The Navitimer is also a beautiful watch with a long history of use by pilots around the world.

Price: $3,800 to $25,000

Selecting The Perfect Gifts for Aviation Lovers

Whether you are looking to buy a watch for yourself or for someone else, it is important to understand all the factors before you make the purchase. Pick a watch that best fits your needs and budget. For more information about pilot watches and all things aviation, subscribe to FLYING Magazine. 

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The post Best Watches for Pilots appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the aviation fan in your life? There are lots of options out there, including Black Friday deals. 

Here are some gift ideas and holiday deals compiled by the FLYING crew:

Sporty’s Pilot Shop

This holiday, Sporty’s Pilot Shop is knocking $80 off the ForeFlight Sentry Plus ADS-B Receiver, as well as offering a $50 discount on its Leather Original Flight Gear Bag. Those in the market for Sporty’s Multiengine Training Course can also snag a $20 discount. Other discounts are also available for Garmin watches, Flight Gear LED flashlights and more. 

Pilot Institute

Pilot Institute is offering up to 50 percent off its airplane and drone courses. Some of the course offerings include Private Pilot Made Easy Online Ground School for $175, Instrument Rating Made Easy for $175 and Checkride Made Easy for $49. More information may be found here.

• READ MORE: Staging a Black Friday Fly-In: Airports Near Shopping Malls 

Wright Brothers Catalog

If it can be worn, displayed, flown in the backyard, used for interior decorating or carrying pilot gear and making you look like a fighter pilot or astronaut while you do it, you can probably find it in the Wright Brothers Catalog from Sporty’s Pilot Shop. The WBC specializes in ‘giftables’ for aviation enthusiasts. One of the more popular items is the inflatable 8-foot Santa in an airplane. Put it on the front lawn and let the neighbors know a pilot lives there. Find WBC’s Black Friday deals here.

Give an Electronic Flight Bag

Seattle Avionics FlyQ EFB (Electronic Flight Bag) pretty much covers every informational need a pilot has in the cockpit, from weather procurement to flight planning. Load the app and you have digital maps on your iPad or iPhone and away you go.

The Gift of Books

Aviation books are always a good choice. For the World War II buff, you might try a recent release from the U.K.: Bomb Group: The Eighth Air Force’s 381st and The Allied Air Offensive Over Europe, by Paul Bingley and Mike Peters.

The book tells the story of the men of the 381st Bombardment Group, based in England, who flew dangerous bomber missions over Europe during World War II. The book was written by Paul Bingley, the chairman of the 381st Ridgewell Airfield Museum Bingley and aviation historian Mike Peters.

“The book took about two years to write (due to full-time jobs and COVID),” Bingley told FLYING. “However, it is the culmination of almost two decades of research on my side. It is a narrative history of the 381st, from establishment to deactivation. It is told largely through the stories of several individuals, including the group’s chaplain, James Good Brown.”

The book is available from Amazon or through Casemate Publishers.

READ MORE: Remembering the Mighty Men of the 381st Bomb Group

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If you haven’t subscribed to FLYING yet, now is an ideal time. FLYING is offering Black Friday deal that will save you up to $50. Find more information here.

Looking for more gift ideas? Check out our guide to the Best Gifts for Pilots under $100

Do you know of a special aviation deal or gift idea for this holiday season? Drop up a line at editorial@flying.media and tell us about it!

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The well-prepared pilot often includes a handheld radio in their flight bag to use during an inflight emergency. The challenge, however, is using your headset with the unit, because most require a special adaptive plug. That won’t be a problem if the handheld radio is the PJ2+ Hand-held Com Radio from Sporty’s Pilot Shop.

According to Sporty’s, this recently released design is an upgrade, driven by customer requests. FLYING noted the original PJ2 as a contender for its Editors Choice Award in 2020. One of the big requests they perennially get at Sporty’s is for a handheld radio that doesn’t require a special adapter for headset/com interface.

“An emergency is no time to be searching for a headset adapter or a user manual to figure out how to turn your radio on,” said Sporty’s director of aviation products and marketing Doug Ranly. “Our focus has always been on making simple and reliable radios, and we think we’ve raised the bar with the upgraded PJ2+.”

The PJ2+ includes a new 3.5 mm jack, 6-watt-peak transmit power, an automatic noise limiter, and a high contrast backlit screen. The 3.5 mm jack can also accommodate wired earbuds along with computer-style headsets, so it can be used at air shows and fly-ins.

Since listening is only half the function, the transmit power has been increased to 6 watts to maximize the radio’s range—something that will likely be greatly appreciated if the pilot finds themself in a remote area following an off-airport landing.

The screen of the radio has been improved to feature a brighter display with a glare-reducing face so it is easier to read in direct sunlight. The keypad is larger, making it easier to hit the right buttons, and the display has improved contrast to make it easier to read when mounted in the cockpit.

Accessories

The PJ2+, which sells for $249, includes an alkaline battery pack, antenna, 100-240 volt wall plug, USB-A to USB-C power cable, a belt clip, and an operator’s manual. The radio can be operated directly from the USB-C plug, utilizing either a cigarette lighter plug or backup battery pack.

Headsets with standard twin plugs (PJ-055 and PJ-068) require no adapter, for Lemo/6-pin plug headsets, an adapter (6123A) is available for $39.95.

The post Sportys Unveils PJ2+ Handheld Radio appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Recently, I thought I lost my favorite flashlight. It is a Smith & Wesson with the ability to project a white, red, and green light. It is my favorite to bring along in the airplane because it provides illumination for the preflight as well as illumination in the cockpit in the event the panel post lights fail. 

Also, it was the last Christmas present my father gave me before he flew West—and flashlights were very, very important to my father.

Dad was known for his flashlights. When someone in the neighborhood needed a giant floodlight, a flashlight with an angled head, one with a magnet in the base or a clip that allowed you to work hands free—they came to him. With this in mind, it’s easy to understand the drama created when I forgot my flashlight on a Girl Scout camping trip when I was nine. From the way the troop leaders reacted you would have thought I had defected to the Campfire Girls. How in the world could my father’s daughter forget her flashlight? I swear the event traumatized me, because since that day forward, I have never been without a working flashlight. This is a personality trait that has served me well as a pilot.

Flashlights and Pilots

How many flashlights do you carry in your flight bag? There was a time when it was recommended that a pilot carry two for night flight: a D-cell battery-operated version with a white lens for preflight inspection, and a flashlight with a red lens for cockpit illumination at night. Understanding how the human eye works was and is part of a pilot’s education.

Because of the particular physiology of the eye, humans have diminished visibility in low-light situations. (You can find the details in Chapter 11 of the FAA’s Airplane Flying Handbook.)

Light from an object enters the eye through the cornea and the pupil. The pupil either expands or constricts, controlled by the colored part of the eye known as the iris.

The lens of the eye is located behind the pupil and its function is to focus light on the surface of the inner layer of the eyeball known as the retina.

The retina contains photosensitive cells called rods and cones. The cones are in a higher concentration than rods in the central area of the retina known as the macula. The exact center of the macula has a very small depression called the fovea, which contains cones only.

The cones are used for day or high-intensity light vision. They are involved with central vision to detect detail, perceive color, and identify far-away objects.

The rods are located mainly in the periphery of the retina—an area that is about 10,000 times more sensitive to light than the fovea, so the rods are more useful for night vision.

It can take up to 30 minutes for a person’s eyes to adjust to low light situations.

For pilots, losing night vision during a flight could be dangerous—so keep the white lights out of the cockpit. Instead, use a flashlight with a colored lens such as red, green, yellow, or blue to protect your night vision.

Unfortunately, some pilots seem to be missing that, as I have seen private pilot candidates attempting to use their cellphone light in the darkened cockpit because the illumination provided by the post lights wasn’t enough. Please don’t do this, as not only do you destroy your own night vision but also that of the instructor sitting next to you. At least warn the person sitting next to you so they can cover one eye and look away to preserve their night vision.

Colored Light in the Cockpit

For decades, red light was the most common color used in cockpits. Around 2010, there was a move away from red light in the cockpit during night flight to green illumination, as many pilots found they had better visual acuity under green light. Blue and yellow lenses are also available if they work better for you—it pays to experiment.

Many aviation flashlights have the ability to project light in multiple colors. Figure out which one works best for you, and when you activate it, keep the lens pointed down just in case you make a mistake and activate white instead of the color you intended to use.

The Right Angle Flashlight

A flashlight with an angled head is one of the most useful designs—it can be set on end and used hands free, or in the cockpit, it can be strategically placed down the front of a polo shirt or locked in with the shoulder harness to illuminate the cockpit panel. The price of these J-shaped flashlights varies from around $10 to $70 depending on the size and materials used. Most come with multiple-colored lenses. Fair warning: Lower price can mean lower quality. They are made of plastic, and plastic is not terribly forgiving when it gets dropped, nor does it protect the interior of the device. The contact points inside the flashlight body are what usually fail, and often they are difficult to repair or replace.

Batteries

When shopping for a flashlight, note the batteries required. If the batteries are not easily acquired, you may want to think twice, as you should always carry replacement batteries with you in your flight bag. Either keep the batteries in the original packaging or with tape over the contact points to avoid accidental arcing if the battery encounters a loose piece of metal—like a key—in the gear bag.

Rechargeable Batteries

Most batteries are rechargeable—but they will never go back to 100 percent. An overcharging battery can lead to a thermal runaway and fire, especially if you opt for off-brand cheap batteries not recommended by the manufacturer. Off-brand cheap batteries can also corrode or split, resulting in damage to the flashlight. When a battery goes critical or oxides, it is pretty much the end of the flashlight. Stick with name-brand batteries for best results.

Hand Crank Flashlights

Some flashlights don’t need batteries at all. Hand crank flashlights utilize a circular crank or a squeeze handle to spin a flywheel inside the flashlight that is attached to a small generator/dynamo. This supplies electric current to an incandescent bulb or LED bulb. 

Hand crank flashlights work great in an emergency or when batteries are not available. The downside is that they may not hold power very well. Before use the flashlight needs to be cranked for a few minutes in order to be used effectively. Cost: $10-$27.

Shake Flashlights 

The cousin of the hand crank flashlight is the shake flashlight. The power for the LED is generated through the movement of a magnet through a coil of wire in a tube. As the magnet moves through the coil of wires it generates a pulse of electricity and there is light. A shake of about 30 seconds —like you are mixing up a beverage—to a minute provides power for about 20 minutes. Cost: $10-$33.

Rechargeable Flashlights

Rechargeable flashlights are a greener alternative. You can have the best of both worlds with a rechargeable LED flashlight. When not in use they plug into the wall and achieve charge via a micro-USB. There is an LED indicator that displays the battery level and warns you when it is running out of juice. Cost: $80+.

Does Size Matter?

The size of the flashlight — be it AAA, AA batteries, or D or C cell — doesn’t really make a difference, because with the invention of the LED (light emitting diode) and the adjustable beam even the smallest device can project a great deal of light.

While smaller flashlights are easier to carry in your flight bag or jacket pocket, they are also easier to lose. For that reason you may want to go big—such as with the traditional D-cell design.

My first pilot flashlight was a two D-cell flashlight Maglite. I still have it—it is heavy and on the larger side as it is similar to the ones used by law enforcement. Over the years I have found it most useful for illumination and a few times it doubled as a defensive tool, I mean, I swung that thing like it was Excalibur. 

And about the flashlight I thought I lost? I found it under the lining in the trunk of my car. It must have fallen out of my gear bag. I celebrated as only my family does in these cases—by buying another flashlight.

The post How Many Flashlights Do You Carry in Your Flight Bag? appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

If you haven’t personally trained with John and Martha King, you know someone who has—they’ve taught roughly 50 percent of pilots through one of their live, video, and online courses through more than 45 years of propelling their company, King Schools, into legendary status.

The Kings established a successful business delivering ground training to prospective pilots as well as serving their ongoing training needs. They just released their first book, part entrepreneurship manual and part autobiography, Lift: How to Start, Run, and Grow Your Own Successful Business.

Though I’ve renewed my flight instructor certificate several times using their course, they have also been mentors, colleagues, friends—and competitors—to me and the companies I’ve worked with over the years. Most recently, they’ve contributed the column “Sky Kings” to FLYING.

But they started off as a piece of paper tacked to a column near my cube at Jeppesen in 1997, when I joined Aviation Courseware as a technical writer. Our team was in the midst of finishing the first installment of the Guided Flight Discovery program, for private pilots. Their smiling faces and thumbs-up demeanor served as a cruel reminder that Jepp had lost the contract to develop training materials for Cessna Pilot Centers to the Kings—and we were determined to best them in the marketplace with GFD.

At the time, I wouldn’t touch a King Schools video with a 10-foot pole.

Times Change

Fast forward through my “career path with many waypoints,” and in 2008 I took on the role of Cessna Pilot Center manager for Cessna. All of a sudden, as the training focal on the Skycatcher light sport aircraft program and head of CPC, I reached out to the Kings to launch our development of the new courseware that would accompany the 162’s debut with flight schools. 

As we built our working relationship, I had a first-hand view of not only their business but also the ethical way they moved through the world—and aimed to treat their employees with respect. 

We’ve been through our fair share of spirited debates, and have not always agreed on the best approach to specific elements of training. 

One example: John was not an early proponent of scenario-based training as outlined with the FAA/Industry Training Standards (FITS), while to me its advantages were clear. It turned out that the answer for us both was in its proper execution—natural for some instructors to deliver, but considered a complete waste of time by others. We found a resolution for the Cessna Sport/Private Pilot Training Program.

So, What About the Book?

I mention all this because I sat down to read “Lift” curious to see what I would learn. Would this be a review of the hundreds of stories they’ve shared over the years, both with me directly and to various audiences? Sure, it turns out a lot of those anecdotes reside in its pages—but you’d expect that they’d share some of their most important lessons again.

The Kings are clearly on a mission to promote entrepreneurism, and the benefits of healthy business development. However, after opening chapters compelling the reader to form a solid business plan based on a passion—and their personal “Scrabble tiles”—John and Martha quickly get into the specific reasons why they feel their business has succeeded, as well as outlining areas where they have failed. 

They provide actionable tools to use to help you organize your own business. While these might seem basic to those with a strong business background, there are also good reminders within about the elements that have worked.

Because of their own position in the industry, the Kings have met a ton of interesting people along the way. They include additional stories that introduce you to some of these folks—a veritable who’s who of aviation legends. And they give credit where it is due to the team members who have propelled them forward.

Overall, it’s a fast-moving read, with nuggets enough to keep even those of us who have had the pleasure to work with John and Martha entertained—and still learning from them.

At NBAA 2022

The Kings will host a book signing at the Coffee Social at the National Business Aviation Association’s Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Orlando at the Orange County Convention Center on Tuesday, October 18, at 2 p.m. The first 100 attendees will receive a complimentary copy.

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The post Good <i>FLYING</i> Reads: John and Martha King’s ‘Lift’ appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Even if you are just planning to be out for a day, pack like you will be staying overnight. There is more to it than bringing food, water, and shelter. Pack with the thought that you might have to stay awhile. Listed here are some FLYING-recommended must-haves for back-country trips.

1. A Large Blue Tarp

You can get these at hardware and building supply stores. They make excellent flys for tents, and can be used to rig a makeshift shelter by putting the tarp over the wing. They also make great ground covers to keep the cold from leaching from the ground into your tent or sleeping bag. The tarps come in multiple colors, but search and rescue pilots note that the blue is the one that stands out the best in nature. This will be very important if you find yourself in a situation where rescue is necessary and the rangers have to go looking for you.

2. Paracord

Sold in bundles, by the foot, or in emergency bracelet form, this stuff is worth its weight in gold. The paracord can be used to secure a tent, to make a tent by stringing the tarp you brought, or to hang your food bag from a tree to keep it away from bears. And, when unraveled, paracord makes a decent fishing line.

3. Duct Tape/Rescue Tape

You can never have too much of this stuff. Tape can be used to repair tears in aircraft fabric or to keep a fuel cap or oil access door closed; repair aircraft hoses, tents, sleeping bags, and gear bags; create a splint for broken bones; and in a pinch, serve as an adhesive bandage to cover a wound. Rescue tape works best for engine hose repair, but duct tape is usually less expensive and comes in larger sized rolls. Duct tape was developed during World War II for use by the military. It was also known as “repair tape” and “speed tape” by the military. The tape will stay on the wing of an aircraft at speeds of up to 140 knots. Remember that, if you need to use it to temporarily secure a fuel cap or repair torn fabric.

4. Swiss Army Knife or Multitool

There is a reason that the term “Swiss Army Knife” isa euphemism for a versatile and useful device. When you are going on an adventure of any sort, having that multitool or Swiss Army Knife will be appreciated. Younever know when you will need a screwdriver, saw, canopener, tweezers, corkscrew, wire stripper, or a knife. If you decide to go the Swiss Army Knife route, don’t skimp—get the one with the most tools—and learn how to use them before you need them. For example, using the can opener function (the sharp hook-shaped tool) takes a bit of practice. There are certain things that multitools, like aLeatherman, are better suited for. The Leatherman Has a set of pliers that are larger and, therefore, can provide more leverage than those on the Swiss ArmyKnife—useful if you need pliers to loosen an oil cap.

5. Fire-Starting Equipment

There are fancy fire starters that rely on a chemical re-action to make a flame, and the old backup, the Zippo lighter, is still popular. Pro tip: cotton, such as lint from pockets, and human hair work great as tinder to get fires started.

6. Flashlight(s) With Extra Batteries

There is a reason that many pilot gear bags are designed with a designated pocket for a flashlight—pilots should carry at least one. You may find it useful to have a flashlight with a headband or clip so you can use the flashlight and still have your hands free, or be able to point it at the instrument panel should the aircraft’s electrical system fail. A white flashlight is an excellent tool for looking into dark engine compartments, under instrument panels, or into fuel tanks. And pack fresh bat-teries—a piece of foil applied to the battery creates a short, resulting in a spark, resulting in fire. Remember this when you pack them—and if you lose your Zippo.

7. First-aid Kit

You may be miles from the nearest medical facility and if someone gets injured during the trip, it can definitely put a damper on the day. Make sure the kit is well stocked and that you rotate the supplies every few months because the adhesive on the bandages can dry out. Have a kit containing bandages, gauze, sunblock,safety pins, antiseptic wipes, pain reliever, and anti-diarrhea medication.

8. Spare Clothing

When heading into the backcountry, dress to survive not to arrive. Long pants, hiking-friendly shoes, a jacket, and a cap are required equipment. Have a spare jacket—even in the middle of summer—because those clear nights can be mighty cold. If your adventure includes flying to several places, you may want to consider shipping a change of clothes to one of your destinations to cut down on the baggage in the aircraft.

9. A Few 1-Quart Plastic Ziploc Bags

These can be used to hold food, and then suspended from trees to keep the bears at bay. They can also be crafted into solar stills to make drinking water.

10. Food & Water

Energy bars are available at camping supply stores.They are 1,000 calories-plus and the point is to have calories to work with, if you don’t have another food source.Water is easy to pack. Always carry a bottle or two in the aircraft. If you are someplace without a source of water, use the empty water bottle and a piece of plastic (like those Ziploc bags you brought) to make a solar still.

11. Emergency Blanket

This looks like a large sheet of aluminum foil. It reflects body heat and folds up to about the size of a pack of cards. It can also be used to attract the attention of searching aircraft; if needed, wave it around so the sunlight glints off of it. If you go with a cloth blanket, makeit wool because wool is warm even when wet.

12. Tactically Appropriate Watch

There are many timepieces on the market that are designed for outdoor adventure. Garmin makes several watches that have multiple features that appeal to back-country enthusiasts. These features may include altimeters, GPS, apps for tracking pilot physiology such as pulse oxygen saturation, and all-important weather tracking, so you can prepare for when Mother Nature says, “Hold my beer.”

The Garmin watch needs to be recharged every few days. The charge lasts five to seven days, and because the Garmin is basically a computer on your wrist, it can be more temperature sensitive than a basic, non-rechargeable battery-powered watch.

If you are looking for a less complicated tactical watch, the Abingdon Jane Watch is a multitool that can tell time, and with its bidirectional compass, help you find true north. This comes in very handy because oncenorth is found, the rest of the cardinal headings fall into place, and that’s something you will want to know when you build a camp. Face the shelter’s opening to the south for maximum solar heating.

To find north in the northern hemisphere:

• Hold your watch horizontally and point the hour hand directly toward the sun.
• Note where the 12 o’clock mark is on the watchface.
• The angle directly between the hour hand and the 12 is the north-south line.
• North will be the side farthest from the sun.

The Jane Watch has luminous hands and hour mark-ings for night vision, and a diver’s bezel for quick timing. And, if you look at the back, a full ruler in standard and metric is engraved across the case.

Final Thoughts

Every six months or so, it’s a good idea to check the supplies in your gear bag—some may need to be rotated out—and remember to pack with the terrain in mind.

This article was first published in the 2022 Southeast Adventure Guide of FLYING Magazine.

The post 12 Things in Your Flight Bag for Adventure appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Your instrument check ride—and the training leading up to it—covered a lot of territory. But there’s no way you learned all there is to know about flight under IFR, in the system and in the clouds. Don’t you wish you had a savvy mentor pilot to take along with you and give you the pieces you may have missed on the way to your instrument ticket?

To this end, Pilot Workshops has released the latest in its series of guides for already-rated instrument pilots, IFR Procedures: A Pilot-Friendly Manual. The practical guide fills in the gaps between lessons and practice under the hood and in the sim—and keeps IFR proficiency going beyond the check ride. 

Using the same step-by-step format as past guides in the series, IFR Procedures talks you through common procedures, breaking them down into relatable, actionable chunks so that you can apply the lesson learned in the cockpit. The chapters cover all phases of instrument flight, including: preflight planning; ATC and clearances; departure, en route, and arrival procedures; and what to do if you have an abnormal or unusual situation.

The printed version is spiral-bound so you can take it with you—it will lie flat on your lap or that of your flying companion—or you can get a digital version to carry and reference on an iPad or tablet. It’s 144 pages with graphics and color photos—plus clear explanations of real-world scenarios.

“The majority of instrument-rated GA pilots struggle to maintain IFR proficiency,” says the company. “It’s a real problem, and something we’ve seen repeatedly over the past 17 years providing IFR training. Our goal was to create a tool pilots can use to improve their IFR knowledge as needed.”

The digital version is $49, and the printed version is $69. They can be ordered at pilotworkshop.com.

The post Pilot Workshops Adds New IFR Pilot-Friendly Manual appeared first on FLYING Magazine.