If taking an aviation knowledge test or check ride is on your to-do list, the folks at Aviation Supplies & Academics are here to help. The ASA 2024 Test Preps, Test Guides, and Test Prep Plus (book and Prepware) are available now.

For decades, ASA has been assisting pilots and maintenance technicians in preparation for FAA knowledge exams.The newly released prep material reflects the latest information and includes updates for two years.

Test Prep for Pilots and Mechanics

The Test Prep books are organized by subject matter and provide explanations for both correct and incorrect answers. ASA has texts covering remote pilot (drones), private, instrument, commercial, instructor, ATP, flight engineer, and aviation mechanic. The books contain the same charts, diagrams, and figures as the knowledge test. Each book has a FAA CT-8080, so the applicants will become familiar with the supplement materials they will see when they take the official knowledge test. Test prep books also include five online practice tests.

Prepware combines all the information found in the Test Prep book with computer-based training. The downloadable software installs to either Mac or PC and includes a two-year subscription to ASA’s Prepware Online, offering study and use-of-test features on digital platforms, including desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. This product also allows student integration with ASA’s Prepware School, which is Prepware designed to be used in the classroom.

Prepware Online includes a two-year subscription to any single test database, allowing the user to study using any digital device.

Test Prep Plus includes a book and the most current Prepware software along with a two-year subscription to Prepware Online. According to ASA, this arrangement has the most flexibility, offering the user the flexibility to study from a book or digital device. It is available for both pilots and mechanics.

Prepware School is designed for flight schools and training centers for multiuser support and study for all FAA knowledge exams—anytime, anywhere—from any internet-connected device.

Pricing ranges from $49.95 to $99.95. For more information, visit asa2fly.com.

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There is an awful lot of math involved in being a pilot and sometimes you won’t have access to a calculator or pencil and paper. There are times, for expediency, that you have to work the problem in your head.

Mental Math for Pilots, Third Edition by Ronald D. McElroy–now available from Aviation Supplies & Academics (ASA)–can help you with that.

According to ASA, the book teaches readers how to solve math problems in the cockpit without calculators, using solutions that are simple and practical for airborne contingencies. The mental math tools can be used in flight planning and to help pilots stay ahead  in the cockpit by performing more efficiently.

• READ MORE: Math 101 for Pilots

“In this book, pilots can learn the tricks of the trade for the areas where they have traditionally needed to sharpen their mental math skills: fuel planning, temperature conversions, reciprocal headings, turn radius, crosswind components, time-speed-distance problems, calculating true airspeed, the 60-to-1 rule, and many others,” ASA said in a release.

Among the techniques is how to determine the reciprocal heading by adding or subtracting 200 from a heading, then adjusting by adding or subtracting 20 to get the resultant. For example, if the aircraft is on a heading of 340 degrees – 200 = 140 + 20 = reciprocal of 340 is 160 degrees.

These skills can help pilots at all levels, including airline applicants during interviews.

In softcover, Mental Math for Pilots contains 104 pages and can be obtained from FBOs that stock pilot supplies, online retailers, or at asa2fly.com for $24.95.It is also available as an e-book for $19.95.

The post ASA Launches ‘Mental Math for Pilots, Third Edition’ appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Just when you thought they could not stuff more, ah, stuff into the D2 watch series, Garmin has managed to up the ante with the Mach 1 Pro. The new multifunction tool includes an LED flashlight, night modes, and an ECG app among other features in a serious—and seriously hefty—wrist-born device.

FLYING had the opportunity to preview the D2 Mach 1 Pro at NBAA-BACE last week in Las Vegas, and we’ve also brought one home to test further for a full report. Our first impression? Improving upon the substantial feature set was a challenge, but a few key elements make it compelling to consider. Among these are:

• An LED flashlight incorporated into the case—and positioned so that you can wield it, communicator-style, during all phases of flight, from preflight to postflight. A red lens makes for safe use in night ops.
• A red shift mode for the display itself, also supporting night flight use.
• Improved battery life, which varies with the type of use, but can last up to 46 hours in pilot mode, and 25 days as a smartwatch.
• An ECG app adds to other health and fitness features to allow users to record heart rhythm for any signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib), up to a 30-second recording that can be viewed on the watch as well as on the Garmin Connect app.

• READ MORE: Garmin Unveils Latest Smartwatch for Pilots

“This year marks 10 years of the D2 series—a smartwatch line that pilots have relied on to combine aviation tools with the latest smartwatch technology,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin’s vice president of aviation sales and marketing, in a statement. “The D2 Mach 1 Pro provides an extensive set of advanced capabilities that pilots use every day, all while touting battery life that can withstand even the long-haul commercial pilot trips. Features like the LED flashlight and large AMOLED display, combined with the high-end materials, make this the most premium-built D2 smartwatch yet.”

The striking 51 mm case is crafted with a titanium bezel and five-button stainless steel design to access features quickly. It can be worn with a wide range of bands, from metal to leather to nylon fitness versions.

Pilot Modes

The D2 Mach 1 Pro builds on the pilot applications launched with earlier models, including the ability to plan, execute, and record flights through each stage. The watch allows access to a worldwide aeronautical database, a horizontal situation indicator (HSI), direct-to navigation, and a moving map display—all while offline. Aviation weather data and custom reports and alerts are available as well as fuel planning. A wrist-based pulse oximeter allows you to monitor oxygen levels, and a barometric altimeter provides altitude alerts.

The watch begins flight tracking and logging on takeoff, and it will sync the flight data to the user’s flyGarmin.com logbook. Flight plans can be uploaded directly using the Garmin Pilot app—and those pilots flying aircraft with PlaneSync can view the aircraft dashboard for fuel, electrical, database, and location information while away from the airplane.

The D2 Mach 1 Pro comes standard with a vented titanium bracelet with carbon gray DLC coating as well as a black silicone band for a suggested retail price of $1,399.99.

The post Garmin Updates D2 Watch Series with Mach 1 Pro appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Cameras, tablets, and smartphones can be useful tools in the cockpit, but they can also become a hazard.

The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) and MyGoFlight-Flight Flix, known for camera, iPad, and tablet cases and mounts, are combining their efforts to increase safety by giving instructors innovative tools to secure these items which have proven to be useful teaching tools. Many learners benefit from the ability to rewatch a flight in addition to receiving real-time feedback.

NAFI promotes professionalism in the flight instructor community, helping CFIs increase their skills as they educate the next generation of pilots.

As members of NAFI prepare for its annual summit in Lakeland, Florida, on October 24 through 26, NAFI president Paul Preidecker expressed the organization’s enthusiasm for this partnership.

• READ MORE: NAFI’s Flight Instructor Summit On Track for October

“Safety is the No. 1 reason for selecting MyGoFlight-Flight Flix as our partner,” said Preidecker. “We believe this collaboration will help us better equip flight instructors and pilots with the tools they need to enhance safety and professionalism in aviation. We are excited to work together to further our mission of excellence in flight instruction.”

Said MyGoFlight-Flight Flix president Dominic Martinez: “We are honored to be partnering with NAFI, an organization that shares our unwavering commitment to safety and excellence in aviation. Together, we can provide the aviation community with innovative, top-quality solutions that enhance the overall safety and effectiveness of flight training.”

As a result of the partnership, NAFI members will be able to purchase selected MyGoFlight | Flight Flix products at a discount.

For more information, visit NAFI at www.nafinet.org and MyGoFlight-Flight Flix at www.MyGoFlight.com and www.flightflix.aero.

The post NAFI, MyGoFlight-Flight Flix Join Forces appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

It’s been more than six months since Bose debuted the A30, its first new general aviation headset since the popular A20 entered the market in 2010. Since the launch, the A30 has seen good sales and positive feedback from the pilot community, Bose Aviation headset group business development manager Chris Wuerfl told FLYING in an interview this week at the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas.

This year’s show is the first NBAA-BACE appearance for the A30, and Wuerfl noted that one of the features receiving a lot of attention in the business jet environment is the headset’s three modes of active noise reduction (ANR). Adding to that, the headset’s tap control for talk-through communication was also of interest to the business aviation community.

• READ MORE: Bose A30 Aviation Headset Review

“In a general aviation environment, you may only ever use the high mode, but if you’re flying in a quieter jet environment, the medium mode might be ideal…,” Wuerfl said. “One of the benefits to the low mode that you wouldn’t see in general aviation… [is that] in the corporate environment you may have someone who wants to speak to the pilot so that low mode allows them to have that interpersonal communication.”

Wuerfl reports that the only real stumbling block with the A30 has been not having enough inventory when the product was launched. That issue has been addressed across almost all variations, with only a few rare SKUs—primarily military models—still lagging.

Compared to the A20, the A30 is a few ounces lighter and has about 20 percent less clamping force. It also features a new headband designed to better balance the weight, better clarity of audio, and improved ANR. The A30 is priced at $1,299.

“The nice thing about it is that the A30 crosses all barriers,” Wuerfl said. “It can be utilized in general aviation, corporate, and commercial environments and…can seamlessly work between them.”

On the A20 side, Wuerfl points out that Bose still has some inventory but will be phasing it out over the next few months. While the company won’t be producing more, he emphasized that it will continue to support the model indefinitely. For those looking to move from the A20 to the A30, there is no upgrade program available, but Wuerfl maintained the company would like to put one in place in the future.

The post Bose Gives A30 Update at NBAA-BACE appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

The holiday season is around the corner, so it may be time to start considering what gift would best suit your flight instructor, hangar neighbor, or pilot family members. While gifts for aviators can run on the expensive side, Amazon Prime has some deals this week that might appeal. Here are a few we found:

1.     Leather Bomber Jacket with Removable Fur Collar Aviator: For aviators who want to stay warm on the ramp and look stylish while doing it

2.     Oakley Men’s Oo9102 Holbrook Square Sunglasses: For pilots looking forward to those severe clear days

3.     METII Upgraded Red Flashlight: For anyone planning night flights

4.     Flight: The Complete History of Aviation: For aviation history buffs and newcomers alike

5.     Devotion: An Epic Story of Heroism, Friendship, and Sacrifice: For those looking to remember incredible pilot friendships and the sacrifices military aviators can be called on to make

6.     CYA E6B Plastic Flight Computer: For pilots looking for a battery-free way to make performance calculations

7.     Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S Throttle and Joystick Flight Simulator Game Controller: For aviation enthusiasts looking to experience more realistic PC flight simulation from home

Editor’s note: This article is not intended as an endorsement of the products listed, but rather as a list of options that may be of interest.

The post Top 7 Prime Day Deals for Pilots appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Pilots carry a lot of equipment: headset, kneeboard, paper sectionals and approach plates or their e-version on an iPad, flashlights, water bottles, yoke clips, multi-tool—and you need a gear bag that can fit it all. While it is tempting to repurpose that backpack you utilize for day hikes or the duffle bag you use for overnight trips, they may not be the best choice, as pilot gear bags are often designed with an aviator’s particular needs in mind. A pilot gear bag is designed not only to carry the gear, but also to protect it and help the pilot stay organized. One of the first things you may notice when you shop for a pilot gear bag is that the majority of the fabric ones are black—and that is the only color. The next thing is that they all have a number of pockets held closed by zippers, velcro, or ties. The price of pilot gear bags starts at around $40 for synthetic fabric and goes all the way to north of $250 for something made of leather.

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Features to Look For

Here are a few elements that make a bag useful for a broad range of pilots. 

Interior as well as exterior pockets 

Organization is key for a pilot. A bag should have securable exterior pockets for the things you will be reaching for during the flight, such as the E6-B flight computer, water bottle, or iPad, and interior pockets for the things you want to keep more secure—your logbook or wallet.

Material that is easy to clean, easy to repair

Fabric gear bags (usually nylon or canvas) are easier to clean than leather ones. This will be important if someone needs to “call pterodactyls” during the flight and barfs in your flight bag. Fabric bags tear more frequently than leather ones, but can also be easier to repair, as finding a shop with a needle strong enough to go through leather can be a challenge.

Multiple compartments

The trick to organization is having items sorted in compartments. One holds your handheld radio, another has the flashlight and extra batteries, and another holds your sunglasses, for example. Compartments that can be zipped up or closed with velcro are prized.

A padded pocket for a headset

A pilot headset is a very expensive piece of equipment. While some headsets come with their own padded carrying case (for example, Lightspeed and Bose), others have a carry bag with minimal protective padding—if they have any protection at all. When the headset costs upwards of $300, spend the money to get a gear bag that has a specialized pocket for it.

A padded pocket designed for iPad or tablet

If the idea of your iPad bouncing around unsecured in your flight bag bothers you (and seriously, it should), find a gear bag with a designated pocket for an iPad or tablet—and its charging cords.

Pen and pencil holders

Nothing ruins a bag—or the gear in it—quicker than a pen exploding. It is unsettling to reach into your bag and discover the interior looks like an octopus panicked. Designated pockets prevent this.

Pocket for flashlight and batteries

Searching for a flashlight or batteries is not something you want to be doing in a dark cockpit. Many bags have a designated and sized pocket for a flashlight and a separate zip-up compartment that will hold spare batteries. Pro-tip: keep the batteries in a compartment of their own and in the original packing, or install painter’s tape across the contact points of loose batteries to prevent them from arcing.

Reinforced bottom

Gear bags hold a lot of weight, and when placed on hard, rough surfaces (like the ramp) on a regular basis, the bottom of the bag, specifically the corners, tend to wear out. You want a bag that has reinforcement in its construction, especially in the corners. Some bags have a hard-surface lower bulkhead, which can also make them more resistant to damage.

Adjustable and padded shoulder straps

Some gear bags can be worn like backpacks. Others have a single shoulder strap. Look for one that is padded and adjustable. Note the buckles and possibly velcro that hold the strap in place. Ideally, once the straps are set to where you want them they should lock down and stay there.

FLYING Picks

Jeppesen Student Pilot Bag

This one’s often the first gear bag a fledgling pilot gets. The bag’s dimensions of 16 inches by 11 inches by 5.5 inches make it a perfect device for carrying all the books necessary for Part 141 training. Cost: $40

Crosswind Flight Gear Bag

According to Sporty’s Pilot Shop, this bag was designed around function and finances—as they say, “Put more cash towards flight training and less towards gear with the Crosswind Flight Gear Bag.” The bag has padded pockets for both the headset and iPad as well as a “cavernous compartment” for everything else. As with most Sporty’s bags, there’s the option to have the top entry flap embroidered for an extra price. The bag comes with a three-year warranty. Cost: $59.95

Flight Outfitters

If you are looking for versatility in a flight bag in terms of size and form, check out the offerings from Flight Outfitters. The Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag is very popular with beginning aviators. Black with orange trim, the external dimensions of the bag measure 12 inches by 10.5 inches by 9 inches. The interior of the bag is easily accessible thanks to all-the-way-around zippers, so it is easy to get into and out of the bag. The interior pocket is fleece-lined and holds a headset with ease, and there are two external pockets perfect for paper charts or a notepad. The bag also has fleece-lined pockets for your electronic gadgets, such as tablets or GPS, along with four internal mesh organizers to keep the cables and charging cords for these devices from turning into a tangled mess. The headset pocket has elastic loops to give you a place to put those extra batteries if you have an ANR headset. The lining of the Lift Flight Bag is bright orange—I mean ‘‘spot me in the woods/come get me now’’ orange—handy if you have to get someone’s attention after an unscheduled off-airport landing. You can also get the FLYING logo placed prominently on the front.

The carry handle is braided reinforced wire with metal hardware and has ergonomic padding for ease of carry. There is also a shoulder strap. Flight Outfitters has other designs—the Lift Flight Mini for the pilot who doesn’t need that much room, to the Lift XL Flight Bag and Flight Bag Pro for the pilot who has a lot to carry. For the aviators who prefer a backpack style to carry their supplies, Flight Outfitters has the Flight Outfitters Sling Pack and the Waypoint Backpack. Cost: $69.95 to $129.95

ASA AirClassics Flight Bag

Aviation Supplies and Academics has been facilitating pilot education since the 1940s, and a big part of that is helping them carry their gear. The ASA Flight Bag is made from water-repellent 600D polyester, with reinforced corners and a large central pocket with repositionable dividers for a customized configuration. The bag has zippered pockets on both ends that are large enough for headsets or tablets. On the back of the bag is an open pocket that doubles as a sleeve to slipover a roller bag for easy transport. Cost: $74.95

Leather Flight Bag

When you’re ready for leather, Sporty’s is ready for you with its Flight Gear series. The bag is made from black calfskin and has exterior pockets for a headset, GPS, and transceiver (there is also a special pocket for storage of the antennae) along with two side pockets and an organizer section for pens, keys, flashlight, sunglasses, etc. The interior main pocket of the leather Flight Gear bag is large enough to stow a headset in its case. The bag has a loop on the back, making it easy to attach to a rolling suitcase if you wish. Cost: $249.95.

Brightline B7 Flight Bags

If you are obsessive about organization—and need a ballistic gear bag—the folks at Brightline have something for you: the Brightline B7 Flight Bag. The bag is like what happens when an overnight bag and an accordion have a lovechild—this bag expands, and I do mean expands. There are so many pockets on this bag that all can be secured with a zipper. When unzipped, the bag opens up like, yes, an accordion for ease of access. Cost: $254

This article was originally published in the March 2023, Issue 935 of  FLYING.

The post Selecting the Perfect Pilot Gear Bag appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Many pilots carry a handheld radio with them in their aircraft as a backup in the event the primary installed com radio fails in flight. 

When the pilot is using an automatic noise reduction headset, this often means fumbling for an adapter so the headset can be plugged directly into the handheld. Sporty’s Pilot Shop changes all that with the introduction of the L6, the only handheld aviation radio that can be connected to a LEMO headset—the kind with the Bose-style connector that allows you to plug directly into a panel.

“The L6 is made exclusively for pilots—there are no menus, no wires, and no adapters,” said Doug Ranly, Sporty’s director of aviation products and marketing. “Dedicated volume and squelch knobs are easy to adjust, even in turbulence, and the high contrast, extra-large screen, and backlit keypad make a big difference during an emergency.”

To use the L6, simply turn it on, type in a frequency, plug it into your headset, and you’re in business.

The handheld radio can store up to 20 channels, which are easy to recall using the L6’s large backlit screen. The L6 is also equipped with a last frequency button to make it easier to quickly switch back and forth between tower and ground, or approach and CTAF.

The L6 can be used outside the aircraft as the device has a built-in 3.5 mm jack to accommodate wired earbuds or computer style headsets, making it a good choice for walking around air shows, monitoring the CTAF while mowing the infield, or simply strolling on the ramp. The transmit power is 6 watts at peak to maximize range.

The L6 uses six AA batteries, so you don’t have to worry about specialty rechargeable batteries or cords. The device also features a USB-C port on the side as an option to power it.

“We believe regular AA batteries are the best choice for backup use, but the ability to power the L6 with a USB-C cable is a convenient option,” Ranly said. “From Sentry ADS-B receivers to iPad Pros, this cable is increasingly common in aircraft.”

The L6 com radio sells for $279 and comes with an alkaline battery pack, antenna, 100-240 volt wall plug, a USB-A to USB-C adapter cable, belt clip, and pilot’s guide.

The post Sporty’s L6 Handheld Radio Hits the Market appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

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.

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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.