“The GTR 205 and GNC 215 products show Garmin’s commitment to offering attractive and affordable ground-based navigation and communication options while continuing to provide world-class, modern capabilities,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin’s vice president of aviation sales and marketing. “We are excited to offer these new solutions for our general aviation customers as we keep our entire product line fresh.”

With a worldwide database and an iteration of Garmin’s unique user interface, the GTR 205 and GNC 215 can be installed in either airplanes or helicopters, according to the company.

• READ MORE: Garmin Updates D2 Watch Series with Mach 1 Pro

Additional features for both units start with a pilot-selectable 25 kHz or 8.33 kHz channel spacing on a sunlight-readable color LCD with standby and active windows and station ID, accessed using dual concentric knobs and backlit keys.

The GTR 205 com is a 2,280-channel-capable VHF com and comes with 10 watts of power standard, with a 16-watt option available. It also has a built-in timer.

The GNC 215 nav/com adds to the 205 its full VHF navigation capabilities, including VOR/ILS functionality with a glideslope receiver. You can use the 215’s navaid lookup feature as well as refer to the on-screen station ID.

“The GNC 215 also has the ability to monitor the standby VOR frequency while displaying the received radial and features a supplemental CDI display for a VOR or localizer,” Garmin said in its release. “These nav/com products interface with most CDI, HSI and autopilot systems, as well as most Garmin flight displays to show the nav indicators in the primary field of view.”

Pricing is $2,695 suggested retail to start for the GTR 205, and $5,295 for the GNC 215. Both have received FAA TSO authorization and will be available in March through Garmin’s dealer network.

The post Garmin Introduces Budget-Conscious Nav/Com Radios for Light Planes appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

• READ MORE: Geeky Pilot Product Review: Sporty‘s PJ2 Handheld Radio

Seamless Backup

If you’re building a modern panel, you’ve likely thought about panel accessories like power ports—including a single-plug LEMO headset interface for at least the pilot and copilot audio jacks. The LEMO interface is convenient because it not only reduces the headset audio cable from two to one but also provides ship’s power input for an ANR headset.

Bose and Lightspeed, to name two manufacturers, offer LEMO options for their headsets, and the single-plug power and audio cable makes for a cleaner interface and eliminates the batteries in the headset. LEMO has become a popular configuration over the years both for OEM and aftermarket applications.

Priced at $279, the L6 is tightly designed around the decent-performing PJ2+ rig, which is priced the same and is still in the Sporty’s radio lineup. In our long-term testing we’ve found the PJ2+, with its 6-watt transmitter and noise-limited circuit, to be a good value and a good choice for emergency backup. Connect the radio to an external antenna and you’ll communicate with similar performance as a panel radio. But you won’t plug a twin-plug GA headset into the L6. It caters strictly to the LEMO interface and powers the ANR headset through the single-plug LEMO connector, which plugs in at the top of the radio’s chassis.

The L6 also has an onboard USB-C connector for plugging in a 2.4-amp power supply. This USB port can bypass the batteries, but for power supplies that output less than 2.4 amps, the radio won’t transmit—only receive. The L6 requires six AA alkaline batteries when not plugged in to external power.

Worth mentioning is the independent volume and squelch controls on the new L6, replacing the single stalk control that’s on the PJ2+. We found the dual controls much easier to deal with.

Performance, Features

We tried the new L6 side by side with the PJ2+ radio and found nearly identical receiver and transmitter performance. It has the same 1.5- by 1.63-inch LCD display and an auto-lit keypad, plus it sits in the exact same chassis as the PJ2+. Like the PJ2+, the L6 has a 3.5-mm earbud jack that disables the radio’s internal microphone and speaker. It also has 20-frequency storage and scanning, a dedicated 121.5 key, active/standby frequency flip-flop and a NOAA weather radio band.

Sporty’s says battery endurance will vary depending on how much you transmit, but for powering a LEMO-equipped headset and using the radio for normal transmitting and receiving, you can plan on between 5 and 10 hours of battery life. We used the L6 with a new Bose A30 (and older A20) and a couple of Lightspeed models, including the new Delta Zulu. But there’s a caveat.

Sporty’s said that there might be some interference issues when transmitting when connected to a Lightspeed Delta Zulu (and some other non-TSO models without shielded cables). What can happen is the cabling acts as a transmitter—perhaps only happening on certain frequencies. We didn’t experience any issues in our evaluation, but Sporty’s provides ferrite grounding beads for users who do have a problem. Simply position the ferrite bead near the LEMO plug, or absent a bead, you can wrap the headset audio cable around the radio’s rubber antenna for better grounding.

The first ever portable radio with a direct plug-in LEMO headset interface, we think Sporty’s has another smart product in the L6.

Visit www.sportys.com for more information.

This article first appeared on KITPLANES.com.

The post Sporty’s L6 COM Radio Review appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

The Classics: Headsets, Gear bags, and Watches

A Good Headset

Many pilots begin their training by renting a headset from the FBO or borrowing a hand-me-down from another pilot. If you’d like to give that pilot a headset of their own, there are plenty from which to choose.

The David Clark Company (the headsets with the distinctive green ear cups) has been protecting pilots for decades. The model H10-30 is still a beginning pilot favorite, and at less than $400 it does the job. On the higher end, you’ll find their automatic noise reduction models available from $745 to $895.

The two most popular ANR headsets on the market are the Bose A30 and Lightspeed Delta Zulu. Both will set you back about $1,200, which isn’t cheap, but both are aviation safety wearables, and most pilots will tell you they are comfortable, even on long flights.The Lightspeed also features a built-in carbon monoxide detector. The Bose and Lightspeed headsets also come with protective cases.

Pilot Gear Bags

They come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, but all have the same job—to hold the pilot’s supplies. You can find them in man-made fabrics that resist tearing and are relatively easy to repair, as well as in leather. The bag should be large enough to hold a headset, kneeboard, iPad, notepad, water bottle, writing implements, E6-B flight computer, and anything else your pilot needs or carries with them on flights.

Look for a bag with multiple pockets and compartments to keep the pilot organized. Some bags come with specially designed spaces for personal electronic devices. Some are designed to be carried with a shoulder strap like a duffle bag, while others are backpacks. Some are a hybrid of the two.

Prices start around $75 and go up from there. Companies that carry them include ASA, Sporty’s, and Flight Outfitters.

Pro tip: Look for a bag that has a reinforced bottom or corners because it’s going to be put down on cement ramps. You may also see if there is an option for monogramming. Most of the bags are black and tend to look alike, so do what you can to set your aviator’s gear apart from the rest.

Flight Jacket

A flight jacket may become a pilot’s most prized possession and often a family heirloom. Fabric jackets such as the nylon MA-1 with its baseball styling is an aviation classic and available for around $90. The interior of the jacket is come-find-me-now orange, which could come in handy if the wearer has an unscheduled off-airport landing and needs to be spotted from the air.

The leather jackets, notably an A-2 look-alike from a department store will run you about $140, while an A-2 military spec flight jacket from companies that specialize in them (Sporty’s Pilot Shop, U.S. Wings) starts at about $250. The jackets with the sheepskin lining are considerably more, $930 and up for the real thing.

Pro tip: When it comes to the flight jacket, always order one size up from what the person usually wears. That way they will be able to layer it in the winter.

Watches

There is a running joke that you can always tell a pilot by the size of their watch, but that has morphed into that you can tell if someone is a pilot because they wear a wristwatch rather than use their cellphone as a time-check device. The higher-end watches, like the Breitling designs, sell for $2,000 and up, and are beautiful chronographs. They are often worn by military demonstration teams.

Garmin D2 varieties continue to be popular. The Garmin D2 can help you check weather, monitor your vital signs, navigate via GPS, and when paired with your smartphone, take and make calls and send texts.

The Garmin D2 Mach 1 Pro does all these things and more, and has a built-in LED flashlight with white light, strobe, and red light for flight deck operations. For the sports minded, it has multiple functions to keep your training on track. The Garmin watches sell for $500 to $1,399.

For women, the Abingdon Co. continues to produce beautiful aviation-inspired timepieces (the bezel doubles as a flight computer) that look good on a slightly smaller wrist. Designed for women by a woman, they start at $485 and go up from there. This year, the Abingdon WASP watch to honor the Women Airforce Service Pilots is creating a lot of buzz in aviation circles.

Hand-held Radios

There is a reason that so many pilot gear bags come with a pocket specifically designed to carry an aviation radio. It is a good item to have, providing a pilot with a backup should the aircraft’s radio fail in flight and providing a flight instructor the means to monitor a learner’s first solo flight from the ramp.

Sporty’s PJ2+ Com ($249) is a popular unit this year. If you would rather go with ICOM, expect to pay $269.95 to $579.95.

Pro tip: Remove the batteries from the device if it won’t be used for a while. This keeps it from going critical and corroding.

Oil Dipstick Remover

It’s  one of those gifts most pilots don’t think to get for themselves, but there will come a time when everyone needs one. Usually this is after someone with gorilla-like strength has put the oil cap back on and tightened it with such force that you would think it insulted their parentage. Instead of wrestling with the recalcitrant cap or using a tool not designed for this purpose, resulting in damage to both the tool and cap, reach for the specialty tool.

From Aircraft Spruce: $13.95

Flashlights

Aviation flashlights with multiple-colored lenses are always appreciated. Some are designed to clip on to something so they can be angled. Some are so bright they can turn night into day. Some have the ability to strobe. Expect to pay around $12.95 to $99.95 for one, depending on the size and options you choose. Don’t forget to include batteries.

Screwdrivers

Screwdriver sets, Phillips or flathead or those with replaceable bits or with a magnet or claw tip, are always appreciated, as they tend to grow legs. Brass screwdrivers that can be used to swing a compass are particularly valued by avionics technicians.

Aircraft Spruce has a selection available.

Tool Supplier Gift Cards

Because most mechanics are very particular about their tools, going with a gift card from their favorite tool supplier, such as Snap-on or Matco, is always in good taste.

Time Gift Certificates

If the flight school or FBO allows it, put some money on account for your aviator to use toward their training. It doesn’t have to be a lot. Pilots who are doing all sorts of things to economize, such as living off of ramen and hot dogs so they have more money to pay for flying, will appreciate this. Caveat: Before you do this, check to see if the flight school has an administrative fee for money on account. If the learner has to drop out of training for a time, it is very discouraging to learn that $300 that was put on their account has been eaten up by administrative fees. This is not uncommon when the school is known for questionable business practices.

Aviation Supply Gift Cards

You can’t go wrong with a gift certificate, as this allows the person to make their own selection, be it apparel, book, model, fuel strainer, or even parts for the airplane they are building in the hangar. They might even use it toward the purchase of an online ground school.

Go for the Whimsy

For the more fanciful gifts, Sporty’s has its Wright Bros. Collection. Colorful and comprehensive, it is a good resource for history buffs looking for that perfect gift from the dawn of aviation to the space program. You’ll find T-shirts, artwork, models, and books, and you’ll find a nice selection of holiday decorations as well, including the inflatable Santa in an airplane and the aviator nutcracker.

There are gifts of nearly every size and at every price point for the aviator or enthusiast in your life. With a little thought and a little searching, you should be able to find something that is just right. 

The post Aviation Gifts that Take Flight appeared first on Plane & Pilot 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 D2 Mach 1 Aviator Watch: Why You Want One

“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.

Editor’s note: This story originally appeared on flyingmag.com.

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

Continue scrolling below to learn about all of the products. 

Arctic Air Portable AC

When filled with ice, Arctic Air blows ambient air across a coil cooled by ice water. It’s able to be powered by the 12 volts that run from a plane’s cigarette lighter (POH must be consulted to confirm your aircraft’s voltage) with a power cord that’s 7.5 feet long. It has two settings, high and low, and it can cool a plane’s interior for three hours on the low setting with flexible tubing. An included drainage tube can pump the water out when on the ground. Measuring 17x17x10 inches, it weighs 14 pounds empty and about 34 pounds full weight. No STCs are required. 

Price: $815. Available at: www.sportys.com. 

uAvionix tailBeaconX

The tailBeaconX is a Mode S Extended Squitter ADS-B transponder and WAAS GPS integrated into an LED rear-position light. It includes a certified SBAS GPS receiver and antenna; no additional GPS is required. It’s compatible with the Aireon ADS-B satellite network. The 20,000-hour-rated LED-position light draws less power than a traditional incandescent bulb, and it mounts in place of your existing rear-position light. Combining the tailBeaconX with the AV-20-E and AV-30-E upgrades your system with transponder control functionality to meet current and future mandates. 

Price: Starts at $2,499. Available at: www.aircraftspruce.com.

X-Naut Active Cooling Mount

This cooling case is compatible with iPad mini versions 1 through 5 and prevents overheating and shutdowns. It includes 26 DBA low-noise fans and offers two power options: through a Micro USB charging port or by battery (4 AAs). A test button indicates battery life, and it has a spring-loaded latch to secure the iPad mini. Measuring 8.3×5.6×1.7 inches, it weighs only 7 ounces (not including the batteries or iPad mini). A kneeboard accessory attaches the Active Cooling Mount to your leg. Compatible with RAM Mounts, it also fits MGF Mounts when used with an MGF Amp or Puck Adapter. 

Price: $179.95. Available at: www.aircraftspruce.com. 

PowerVolt Charger

The PowerVolt PD32 Charger from Scosche offers both a USB-A and a USB-C port for compatibility with most charging cords. The USB-C port provides up to 20 watts of power and is able to charge iPhones up to 50% in 30 minutes. It has fold-out prongs that allow it to plug close to wall outlets. 

Price: $29. Available at: www.sportys.com.

Stratus 3 ADS-B Receiver

Stratus 3 is a subscription-free portable and wireless receiver that provides weather, WAAS GPS information, backup attitude and dual-band ADS-B traffic on your tablet. It’s programmed to work in conjunction with ForeFlight but also with Open ADS-B Mode that’s compatible with popular iOS and Android-based apps. Other features include a pressure altitude sensor, smart WiFi, auto shut-off and an eight-hour battery life. 

Price: $749. Available at: www.marvgolden.com 

The post uAvionix tailBeaconX, Stratus 3 ADS-B Receiver, and More Gear for Pilots appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

Continue scrolling below to learn about all of the products. 

Robotow Cordless Towbar

When its friction drum is held against the nosewheel, the Robotow allows one person to move singles and twins such as the Aztec, Baron and Cessna 421. Its motor has a reverse-direction switch, and a trigger on the pistol-grip handle controls speed. Weighing less than 30 pounds, it measures 48 x12 inches. An axle adapter, sold separately, is required. It’s available for a variety of aircraft without wheel pants, including the Cessna 150, 172 and 175; the Piper Cherokee, Comanche and Apache; the Beech Bonanza Baron, Travelair and Debonair; and the Bellanca, Navion and Riley, to name only a few. It will not work with the Seneca, Arrow, Aerostar and Lance, among others. 

Price: $1,599. Available at www.sportys.com.

GoCheck Preflight Multi-Tool

The GoCheck Preflight Multi-Tool combines six preflight tools. These include a slide-off fuel tester with strainer and belt clip, a stall horn tester and a dipstick wiper that works with both round and flat dipsticks with LEDs for use at night. Additionally, there’s a red/white flashlight, Phillips/flathead screwdrivers illuminated by LEDs and checklist reminder card. It measures 6 inches long and comes with four AAAA batteries. 

Price: $49.95. Available at www.mypilotstore.com.

Sporty‘s Electronic E6B Flight Computer

The E6B is used for flight planning and accurate FAA test calculations. It’s capable of computing navigational, weight and balance or fuel problems, and it also performs standard arithmetic calculations. It has backlighting, a large keypad and a quick reference card in a storage case. Some of its aviation functions cover density altitude, required rate of climb, fuel required and plan true airspeed, among others. Conversions include Celsius<>Fahrenheit, Jet A Gallons<>Pounds and Nautical Miles<>Statute Miles. It also has a clock that reflects local, home and Zulu time zones, along with a count-up/countdown timer. 

Price: $79.95. Available at www.sportys.com. 

Flying Tigers Long-Sleeved Athletic Shirt

Sporty’s Wright Bros. features the Flying Tigers, the First American Volunteer Group. It was a fighter group that operated from 1941-1942 and piloted P-40 aircraft to oppose the Japanese invasion of China. The athletic shirt has a shark teeth design on the left sleeve and the Flying Tigers font down the right, with the leaping winged tiger from the back to the front left-hand shoulder. In addition, there’s the Republic of China roundel on the lower back and a red lady logo above the right chest. It’s made of a cotton/Lycra mix. 

Price: $14.99. Available at www.sportys.com.

The Baggage Organizer

Supplies can be organized and secured in the back of the aircraft with the Baggage Organizer’s compartments. It’s able to accommodate emergency aircraft supplies that can include nose and main tire tubes, spare alternator belts, a first aid kit, approximately four quarts of oil, spark plugs, a toolkit, a spare battery to jumpstart the plane, and jumper adapter and wheel chocks.

Price: $290. Available at www.aircraftspruce.com.

The Leatherman Wave

Measuring 4 inches when closed with a 2.9-inch blade and weighing 8.5 ounces, the Wave is still able to house 17 tools in one. It includes point and serrated knives, needle nose and regular pliers, wire and hard-wire cutters, a wire stripper, a saw, scissors, a wood/metal file, a diamond-coated file, large and small bit drivers, a ruler and a bottle/can opener. It also comes with Phillips and flat-tip eyeglasses screwdriver bits and Phillips #1-2 and 3/16-inch bits.

Price: $109.95. Available at www.aircraftspruce.com.

Ram iPad Mini 6 Perfect Fit Cradle

This cradle holds an iPad Mini 6 without a case. Its roller design facilitates placement and removal of the iPad, and it has an attachment point on the side for an Apple Pencil. The Perfect Fit comes with a 1-inch mounting ball preinstalled and is compatible with other Ram mounting products. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.

Price: $24.95. Available at www.sportys.com.

The post A Towbar, a Preflight Multi-Tool, and More Gear for Pilots appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

MultiSump Aircraft Fuel Tester

MultiSump Aircraft Fuel Tester

Price: $28.95
Available at: www.mypilotstore.com

This fuel tester allows for up to eight fuel sump testings on the same aircraft without having to empty between checks. After obtaining a sample, you can do an inspection on the fuel in the top container. Afterward, the contents can be emptied into the lower sample cup by pushing down on the top. After all the sumps have been checked, the samples can be emptied from the lower container with a pour spout. The MultiSump+ is a variation that includes a fuel strainer to keep impurities or water from entering the fuel pump during pourback. Constructed with fuel-resistant plastic and stainless steel, it measures 7 x 2.5 inches and weighs .28 pounds.

UA-80 Evolution Vest

Switlik’s UA-80 Evolution Vest

Price: $795
Available at: www.aircraftspruce.com

Switlik’s UA-80 Evolution vest is FAA-approved for underarm constant wear. It provides flotation around the body, so it does not interfere with the head and neck. It’s able to auto-right unconscious aircrew to bring them to a face-up position. It has a twin-chamber inflatable cell with two oral tubes, storage pockets and quick-release buckles. Made with 1000D textured nylon, it comes with an emergency locator light and a grab handle to assist in rescue. It’s approved to TSO-c13G.

Pivot iPad Mini Gen 6 Case

Pivot iPad Mini Gen 6 Case

Price: $189.95
Available at: www.sportys.com

The case for Pivot’s Mini Gen 6 is comprised of an inner shell that holds the iPad Mini and an outer shell that includes the mounting channel. It’s constructed with impact-absorbing carbonate with air to circulate around it to prevent the iPad from overheating. The kickstand supports different viewing angles, and the case has a suction cup and pivoting arm for mounting. The design allows access to the Apple Pencil and Touch ID and is compatible with Apple’s 6th Generation iPad Mini.

XeVision XeTreme LED Landing Light

XeVision XeTreme LED Landing Light

Landing and taxiing

Price: $897.75
Available at: www.aircraftspruce.com

The XeTreme Landing Light is a high-powered LED made for both taxiing and landing. The company says it has a proprietary cooling design that prevents the light from overheating and a strobe pattern that mitigates bird strikes. It’s able to generate 320000cd (candle power) and illuminates up to 800 nm at a 9-degree beam angle. Manufactured with aircraft-grade aluminum, it weighs 27 ounces and is warrantied up to five years or 2,000 hours (whichever comes first).

Baboon To the Moon Go-Bag

Baboon To the Moon Go-Bag

Price: $199
Available at: www.baboontothemoon.com

The Big version of this duffle bag holds 60L, around five-plus days’ worth of clothes. It fits in most airline overhead bins and is water-resistant. The zipper is lockable, and it has shoulder, cross-body and backpack straps along with external grab handles. Pockets include three internal and one external. Its specs come in at 2.5 x 21.5 x 14 inches, and the bag itself weighs 4 pounds. It comes with a lifetime warranty and in a range of colors.

Eyes Outside Plane Cleaner

Eyes Outside Plane Cleaner

Price: Starts at $14.75
Available at: www.aircraftspruce.com 

Eyes Outside cleans and polishes plastics (including plexiglass, acrylic, acrylate, lucite and lexan), glass or other hard, shiny surfaces. It removes fingerprints from LCD screens, radio displays, glass cockpits, instrument gauges and the likes. Paired with a microfiber cloth, it’s able to remove stuck-on dead bugs and insects from windshields and helmets. It comes in a 10-ounce sprayer bottle and a 1-gallon refill jug.

The post A MultiSump Aircraft Fuel Tester, UA-80 Evolution Vest, And More Gear For Pilots appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

Leather iPad Bag

This bag is a protective carrier for your flight electronics. It also organizes all the gear that come with tablets and EFBs. It’s made with jacket-quality leather for durability, and it has the Microsoft Simulator logo embroidered on the front. Its compact design helps it fit snugly in between seats. It has quick-access pockets for other gear, like flashlight, charts or a fuel tester. A water bottle holder is a convenient feature, as is the organizer pocket that can hold a cell phone, pens, your ID cards and more. It comes with a soft carrying handle and a shoulder strap, as well.

Price: $169.95  Available at: www.sportys.com

General Aviation Short-Sleeved Shirt

Sporty’s Wright Bros. Collection showcases fashion pieces that are tributes to our flying pioneers. This General Aviation Short-Sleeved Shirt is comfortable—made with four-sided, stretch, easy-care fabric. An all-over design of classic white airplanes, light-blue propellers and dark-blue pilot wings pops against a blue background. With a button-down collar and a left-chest pocket, it’s perfect to wear to dressy and casual occasions alike.

Price: Starts at $32.99  Available at: www.sportys.com

Stadia AGL LIDAR Landing Altimeter

Using LIDAR to measure the aircraft’s height above the ground, Stadia is an AGL landing altimeter that’s a practical addition to any aircraft. It connects to a smartphone through Bluetooth and notifies the pilot of their altitude with visual and audible cues. The alerting sounds increase in frequency as the aircraft’s height decreases. It has a maximum altitude of 130 feet and a rechargeable battery life of up to 12 hours.

Price: $545  Available at: www.aircraftspruce.com

Navigating Weather

One of ASA’s newest titles for 2022 is Dr. David Ison’s “Navigating Weather,” a comprehensive guide to the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to operate both airborne and datalink weather radar. Dr. Ison maintains a focus on real-world application of radar operation and interpretation, from radar and severe weather theory to attributes of inclement weather phenomena, how they’re detected and how pilots can evaluate conditions through radar sources available to them. Using example scenarios, essentials such as attenuation, tilt management, contouring and gain are discussed. Other advanced features are also included, like auto-tilt, turbulence detection, wind shear warning systems and terrain mapping. Each chapter contains case examples, concept questions to test understanding and sample storylines to assess a pilot’s evaluation skills.

Price: $39.95. Available at: www.asa2fly.com

Rope Chocks

Designed for ideal use with small- to-medium-sized aircraft, Rope Chocks prevent movement or rolling because of uneven terrain or environmental factors such as wind. Despite their light weight at only 1.5 pounds each, they don’t rattle on the ground or in the air and are resistant to weather, lubricants and oils. They’re also suitable for securing other kinds of vehicles, trailers, equipment or anything with tires or wheels. They’re highly visible because of their color scheme and are easy to store. Available to purchase singly or as a set of two.

Price: $79 for a set of two with storage bag  Available at: www.aircraftspruce.com

Long Wind-ed Socks

These humorous aviation-themed socks from Pilot Expressions are made with a breathable blend of bamboo, polyester and spandex. The design is woven right into the fabric instead of being simply printed on, which means the bottoms won’t stick to surfaces or retain heat from plastic printing, and the color will remain vibrant even over repeated use. They come in black and in one size that fits most.

Price: $12.99  Available at: www.etsy.com/shop/PilotExpressions

The post A General Aviation Shirt, Leather iPad Bag And More Gear For Pilots appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

The Complete Multi-Engine Pilot, New Edition

ASA has just released the fifth edition of Bob Gardner’s guide for pilots learning multi-engine flying. The Complete Multi-Engine Pilot textbook includes a new chapter on energy management and information on obtaining the multi-engine rating and checking out in a new twin. An integrated flight and ground syllabus outlines the rating program, with a sample written test that’s a helpful guide to the ones typically used for new-aircraft checkouts. It also comes with a complete library of FAA source material on multi-engine flight subjects. The Complete Pilot Series was written to complement training materials in flight schools, for home study and as a starting point for student kits. It has a soft cover, measures 8.25 x 10.75 inches, and is illustrated with 200 pages. It’s also available as a digital e-book and as part of a discounted e-bundle.

Price: $24.95. Available at asa2fly.com.

Dual Eyewear SL2 Sunglasses With Readers

A good pair of sunglasses that won’t reduce visibility is essential for pilots. This featherweight “Super Leggero” (Super Light) pair from Dual Eyewear weighs only 20 grams. Its non-polarized lenses are made of shatterproof and scratch-resistant polycarbonate. The Grilamid TR-90 frames are impact-, chemical- and UV-damage resistant, and the slim profile makes for an easy fit under a headset’s ear seals. Non-slip rubber nosepieces and arm inserts keep the pair in place. It offers 100% UVA, UVB and UVC protection, and the +1.5. +2.0 or +2.5 diopters reduce distortion and fatigue.

Price: $64.95. Available at sportys.com.

Hangarbot Smart Hangar And Monitoring System

This all-in-one security system allows pilots to monitor their hangars closely, along with the ability to open and close doors remotely. The bundle includes two LynkGuard Smart Security Cameras, one HangarBot 4G Hub and one HangarBot Door Controller. It’s especially useful for those who rent or share hangars. The waterproof camera captures activity during automated door opening and closing and provides additional internal hangar viewpoints. The Door Controller is compatible with nearly all electric and hydraulic industrial doors. An app on your smartphone downloads video information and manages all the important functions for the system.

Price: $1,696. Available at aircraftspruce.com.

Flight Gear USB Slimline Charger

The aluminum-constructed Flight Gear Slimline Charger has a USB type-A port that provides quick-charge capability with up to 3.6 amps at 5 volts. It also has a type-C port with a power delivery of 3 amps at 5 volts, 2 amps at 9 volts, or 1.5 amps at 12 volts. An LED screen displays the voltage of the cigarette lighter socket it’s plugged into. When a device is plugged in, the screen changes to show how many amps the device uses. It works with 12V and 24V systems.

Price: $14.95. Available at sportys.com.

Flight Gear Tailwind Backpack

Popular among students at flight school Sporty’s Academy, the Tailwind has a headset hanger to keep that expensive headset secure and protected. Inside, there’s also a large section that can accommodate books, kneeboards and a padded pocket for computers and iPads. Internal gear walls are removable for gear modifications. Outside, two side pockets can hold a water bottle or backup radio, and there are holders for other essentials such as flashlights and fuel testers. Webbing loops are helpful for attaching gear with carabiners. The padded shoulder straps and breathable back pad, along with a reinforced handle, all make this a heavy-duty flight bag that stands up to use. It comes with a three-year warranty.

Price: $99.95. Available at sportys.com.

Peeps Eyeglasses Cleaners

Speaking of sunglasses, Peeps promise to clean lenses up to 500 times. NASA uses these compact eyeglasses cleaners on the Space Station. Their carbon cleaning compound safely and easily cleans glasses from oily fingerprint smudges to facial oils. Included are a brush to remove surface dust and dual-facing carbon pads to wipe off any residue on the inside and outside of your lenses. The cleaners also come in a wide range of colors.

Price: $14.95. Available at thegrommet.com.

The post A New Multi-Engine Flying Textbook, A Security System And More Gear For Pilots appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

Bike In A Bag

The sporty pakiT folding bike is a small and light bike that will fit into most baggage compartments easily. It’s so small that it fits neatly into a large backpack when folded up, a process that the maker says takes as little as 20 seconds. How light is it? Very. It tips the scales starting at just 22.5 pounds, and its small footprint (38x24x10 inches when folded, with a 16-inch wheel) is just the ticket to fitting it through that Bonanza baggage door, not to mention for taking in the trunk of a car or on a train for cruising around a destination city.

Price: Starts at $1,695. Available at www.bikefriday.com.

Sentry ADS-B Receiver For ForeFlight

Sentry is a compact, affordable ADS-B receiver made specifically for ForeFlight that offers inflight weather and traffic, AHRS and internal WAAS GPS. It has a long battery life (up to 12 hours), onboard storage for weather replay, and a CO sensor with an alarm system for added safety. With ForeFlight’s Cockpit Charging feature, Sentry can support up to five devices. Suction cups for mounting make transferring from plane to plane easy.

Price: $499. Available at www.sportys.com.

Leather Pilot Log

This classic leather pilot log from Rustico is for pilots looking to upgrade their current folio.

It comes refillable with an ASA logbook inside and can be personalized. Choose from three sizes (small/standard, medium and large/master) and a range of seven colors, from natural to burgundy. 

Price: $79. Available at www.rustico.com.

iPad Flight Desk

Flight Outfitters’ Deluxe iPad Flight Desk combines a universal kneeboard design with a custom organizer case. The rigid kneeboard is a secure surface with three sizes of silicon holders to accommodate iPads, iPad Minis and most phones, either in portrait or landscape modes. There are three pockets with straps to put charging cables in order. Loops can hold a stylus and pen, and you can use an included clipboard inside or outside the case. 

Price: $99.95. Available at www.sportys.com.

Pilot Stuff Tee

Flight Outfitters’ pilot-themed tee in vintage blue answers the age-old question, “So, what do you do all day?” Any aviation fan can wear the shirt, made of super-soft 50/50 cotton, to go flying, to the next airshow, or to simply show off their love of all things plane at the local airport. 

Price: $24.95. Available at www.aircraftspruce.com.

A Shoe Just For Pilots

Lift Aviation’s Air Boss Flight Shoe has an aviation-specific engineered heel designed to lower friction against the cockpit floor. It has the lightweight, thin sole of a driving shoe with added rigidity in the heel for mobility and support while you fly. Its breathable and microbial OrthoLite insoles promise comfort during long hauls, and its oil- and slip-resistant outsoles offer comfort and protection during walkarounds. 

Price: $129. Available at www.mypilotstore.com.

Dual-Purpose Flashlight

Flight Gear’s rugged Rechargeable Flashlight is a multipurpose tool that’s water resistant, has a zoomable spotlight/flood feature in two colors (white and red), and has a USB port to charge your phone. It has a four-light indicator to show you how much charge is still left for use. At only 6.75×1.6 inches, it’s a practical addition to any flight bag.

Price: $49.95. Available at www.sportys.com.

Check out more gear here.

The post An ADS-B Receiver, A Shoe, And More Products For Pilots appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.