PLBs are emergency devices that transmit distress signals via satellite. Pilots carry PLBs as a last-resort distress signal. If an aircraft crashes or becomes stranded, activating the PLB alerts search and rescue authorities.

Satellite messengers, on the other hand, allow customized two-way messaging via satellite networks. Pilots can use satellite messengers for emergency and non-emergency communications, trip planning, and keeping connected in remote areas. They provide SOS capabilities, location sharing, and text messaging.

Keep reading for a side-by-side comparison of the best PLBs and satellite messengers on the market today, and explore their crucial role they play in aviation safety.

Quick Look: 5 Best Personal Locator Beacons & Satellite Messengers

• Best for ruggedness: ACR ResQLink 400
• Best for simplicity: McMurdo FastFind 220
• Best for affordability: SPOT Gen4
• Best for compact size: Garmin inReach Mini 2
• Best for all-in-one features: Iridium Go!

Top PLB & Satellite Messenger Options

PLBs and satellite messengers are essential items for any survival kit and could save your life in an emergency. Let’s explore the different PLBs and satellite messengers available on the market today.

ACR ResQLink 400

The ACR ResQLink 400 PLB utilizes a built-in GPS paired with a 406 MHz transmitter and can alert search and rescue teams around the world of the current location within minutes of activation. The PLB works with the next generation MEOSAR satellite system for faster alerting times. It is compatible with both the U.S.’s GPS and the European Galileo system for precise position fixes. The unit’s rugged build includes a built-in antenna and single SOS button activation.

Best for: Ruggedness

Features:

• PLB/satellite messenger: PLB
• Satellite network: Cospas-Sarsat, MEOSAR
• Subscription plan: No
• Battery life: 5 years, 24+ hours of operational life
• Waterproof: Yes, up to 10 meters
• Additional features: Small and lightweight; global coverage

Disadvantages:

• Does not allow for two-way messaging
• Once activated, the unit cannot be reset or reused
• Replacing the battery can be costly compared to rechargeable alternatives
• Manual, instead of automatic, activation is required during an emergency

Price: $369.95

McMurdo FastFind 220

The McMurdo FastFind 220 is a simple, user-friendly PLB. It can transmit continuously for a minimum of 24 hours on both 406 and 121.5 MHz. The unit is waterproof up to 10 meters and comes with a flotation pouch and lanyard. An LED strobe flashes SOS in Morse code when activated. If registering the unit outside of the U.S, the McMurdo Fast Find 220 PLB — Programmed for Rest of World Registration version must be purchased.

Best for: Simplicity

Features:

• PLB/satellite messenger: PLB
• Satellite network: Cospas-Sarsat
• Subscription plan: No
• Battery life: 6 years, 24+ hours of operational life
• Waterproof: Yes, up to 10 meters
• Additional features: Accelerated location detection; LED SOS Morse code flashlight installed

Disadvantages:

• Does not allow for two-way messaging
• Once activated, the unit cannot be reset or reused
• Replacing the battery can be costly compared to rechargeable alternatives
• Manual, instead of automatic, activation is required during an emergency

Price: $254.99

SPOT Gen4

The SPOT Gen4 is a Globalstar-based satellite locator and messenger that straddles the line between satellite messenger and basic PLB. It can be used to send an SOS alert to the emergency network, a standardized all-okay check-in, or a help message to personal contacts. Outgoing messages and personal contacts are pre-programmed by logging into a personal online account, so they cannot be changed without internet access. 

Best for: Affordability

Features:

• PLB/satellite messenger: PLB with one-way messaging
• Satellite network: Globalstar
• Subscription plan: Yes, activation fee applies; monthly and annual contract plans available
• Battery life: 4 AAA batteries, which are good for roughly 1,200 check-in messages, or approximately 436 hours when set to 10-minute tracking intervals
• Waterproof: Yes, up to 1.5 meters
• Additional features: Dust-resistant; progress tracking feature available

Disadvantages:

• Requires a subscription to function
• Satellite tracking interruptions due to obstructions
• Pre-set messaging available only
• Only sends messages; it does not receive them

Price: $149.95

Garmin inReach Mini 2

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact, lightweight satellite communicator that enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally. An active satellite subscription is required. TracBack routing is available to allow the user to navigate back to where they started. A digital compass is available to get accurate heading information. 

Best for: Compact size

Features:

• PLB/satellite messenger: Satellite messenger
• Satellite network: Iridium
• Subscription plan: Yes, activation fee applies; monthly and annual contract plans available
• Battery life: 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode
• Waterproof: Yes, up to 1 meter
• Additional features: Larger, easy-to-read color screen; TracBack routing feature available; Explore app integration available to plan routes, share locations, and access maps; USB-C battery charging available; integrated GPS tracking, weather updates, and messaging capabilities; emergency SOS messaging available

Disadvantages:

• Subscription is required to access the satellite network and messaging features
• Limited battery life when using added tracking and messaging features
• Fastening design can unexpectedly open, potentially resulting in a lost device

Price: $399.99

Iridium GO!

The Iridium Go! satellite Wi-Fi hotspot has even more functionality than the standard satellite messengers. This feature-rich unit provides internet via satellite. Although the subscription plans can be expensive, the unit’s capability is hard to match. Iridium GO! enables a personal smartphone to call and text messages from just about anywhere in the world via the Iridium satellite network. The until is compatible with both Apple and Android products.

Best for: All-in-one

Features:

• PLB/satellite messenger: Satellite messenger
• Satellite network: Iridium
• Subscription plan: Yes, activation fee applies; monthly and annual contract plans available
• Battery life: 5.5 hours of talk time and 15.5 hours of standby time
• Waterproof: Yes
• Additional features: Intuitive color touchscreen and built-in voice calling; flip-up antenna provides reliable satellite connectivity; can connect to five mobile devices within a 100-foot radius via Wi-Fi; global coverage; able to access select email, chat, social media, weather, and light web-browsing apps; rechargeable Li-ion battery

Disadvantages:

• The data speeds are relatively slow, which makes it less suitable for bandwidth-intensive tasks like streaming or large file transfers
• Both the initial purchase cost and airtime minutes can be expensive, especially for frequent or heavy data users

Price: $925.00

How Do Personal Locator Beacons Work?

A personal locator beacon is a compact, portable device designed to send out an emergency distress signal in life-threatening situations. When activated, a PLB transmits a powerful distress signal on the 406 MHz frequency. This signal is picked up by a network of satellites, which then relays the information to local search and rescue teams.

A PLB is especially useful in remote areas where traditional communication methods like cell phones may be unreliable. It is accurate, portable, and cost-effective. Some newer PLBs also integrate GPS position data into the distress signal, narrowing the search area to roughly the size of a football field. This means that a PLB can be a crucial lifeline in case of an emergency if you’re flying over remote terrain.

Emergency Locator Transmitters

In 1973, after the disappearance of a Cessna 310 on a flight from Anchorage, Alaska to Juneau, Alaska, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) began requiring the installation of emergency locator transmitters (ELTs) in almost all aircraft.

Unlike PLBs, ELTs are units permanently installed on an aircraft. But similar to PLBs, they are designed to automatically activate in the event of an aircraft accident and send out a signal to search and rescue crews.

ELTs are also registered to their owners, allowing emergency responders nearly immediate access to information about who they’re looking for. They transmit a distress signal on the 406 MHz frequency.

Basic Emergency Beacon vs. Satellite Communicator

PLBs were approved for use in the U.S. in 2003. PLBs transmit a personalized signal on 406 MHz, an international distress frequency that can be received by the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite constellation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) monitors the system in the U.S, including PLB registration. That registration is good for two years and is required by law. One of the benefits of registration is that any distress signal will identify the owner and their personal info to search and rescue personnel.

PLBs fall into two general categories:

• Basic emergency beacon: A basic emergency beacon is an emergency device that uses satellite technology to transmit a distress signal to search and rescue teams in case of an emergency. It is typically a one-way communication (SOS only) device. A basic emergency beacon does not require a subscription unless it offers upgraded features, such as one-way messaging.
• Satellite communicator: A satellite communicator allows two-way, customized communication. It improves emergency response by enabling communication beyond cell signals. It offers features like text messaging, tracking, and SOS capabilities. A satellite communicator requires a subscription.

Tips for Choosing the Best PLB or SAT Communicator

There are several considerations to keep in mind when choosing the best PLB or SAT communicator. From distress signal strength and reliability to budget considerations, there is a tool to meet every pilot’s unique mission.

Distress Signal Strength and Reliability

PLBs are designed to send out a distress signal when activated. This signal is crucial for alerting search and rescue services. A strong signal ensures faster detection and response while guaranteeing that help can be summoned promptly even in the most remote locations. PLBs are built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, but regular maintenance and testing are crucial to guarantee their reliability during emergencies.

Battery Life: Ensuring Longevity in Emergencies

Having a reliable device with sufficient battery life can be a lifesaver during emergencies. Here are several battery life-related factors to consider when choosing a PLB:

• Standby mode: If you never have to activate your PLB, it can last anywhere from months to years without needing replacement or recharging.
• Operational mode: When activated, a PLB should work continuously for at least 24 hours, as required by law. Some devices can last longer—up to several days or weeks—depending on usage and operation.
• Battery longevity: Always check your device’s specifications and follow manufacturer guidelines for battery charging, maintenance, and replacement.

Satellite Network: Coverage and Accessibility

Having a reliable PLB with global satellite coverage ensures that help can reach you even in the most remote areas. Pay attention to the following as you evaluate your options:

• Global coverage: When activated, PLBs transmit a signal that can be detected worldwide by the international satellite system. This means your beacon can be activated from anywhere on Earth’s surface, whether you’re traveling by air, land, or sea.
• Emergency response: PLBs use satellite technology to send distress signals to emergency services, alerting them to your location and need for assistance. The signal relays GPS data, providing precise coordinates to local search and rescue teams.
• Network reliability: Different PLBs use various satellite networks. For truly worldwide coverage, COSPAS/SARSAT and the Iridium network are the best options. Globalstar, employed by SPOT devices, provides more regional coverage.

SOS Only vs. Two-Way Messaging

An SOS only device is designed solely for emergencies. When a pilot activates the SOS button, the unit transmits a distress signal to rescue services. An SOS only device is simple, lightweight, and reliable for critical situations. However, it offers limited communication as there is no custom messaging or interaction beyond the SOS signal.

A two-way messaging unit, on the other hand, allows pilots to communicate directly with rescue teams. It allows pilots to send and receive messages, explain their situation, and get advice. Two-way messaging enhances communication and coordination during emergencies. However, these devices tend to be slightly heavier and more complex than the SOS only units.

Subscription Requirements: What You Need to Know

A PLB does not require a subscription unless it is a device that also offers messaging capabilities. SAT communicators, on the other hand, require ongoing payments to keep them operational, including:

• Activation fees: Most services have activation fees when starting or resuming service.
• Monthly/Annual fees: Monthly or annual subscriptions are available and can be selected based on your individual needs.
• Additional charges: Depending on your plan, you might incur additional charges unless you’ve selected an unlimited option.

Budget Considerations

The average cost of a PLB/SAT communicator typically ranges from $200 to $500. The cost of the unit ultimately depends on every pilot’s unique needs and the unit’s functionality. A simple PLB with SOS signaling only costs much less than an advanced SAT communicator with a global hotspot. 

While a PLB does not require a subscription beyond the initial unit cost, a SAT communicator requires additional subscription fees, as already described.

Choose Your Personal Locator Beacon Wisely

If you are simply looking for a solid backup to an aircraft ELT, a basic PLB is the best way to go. Little maintenance is required, and the price for most models is reasonable. Given the similarity in cost, deciding between basic PLB models is largely a matter of picking which features and operating styles you prefer, such as waterproofing and protection against accidentally transmitting distress signals while testing the unit.

For pilots planning more extensive backwoods travel or flying over sparsely populated terrain, satellite messenger functions can offer a lot of safety options geared specifically for trips away from cell phone reception. It’s up to you to choose the device that will meet your unique needs.

FAQ

Do personal locator beacons require a subscription?

Personal locator beacons (PLBs) do not require a subscription. However, some models that offer upgraded features, such as messaging, may require an annual subscription.

What is the difference between a personal locator beacon and SAT phone?

A personal locator beacon is strictly for emergencies as it sends a one-way distress signal to rescue authorities without requiring a subscription. A SAT phone sends an SOS signal, offers communication and navigation options, and requires a subscription.

Does a PLB work everywhere?

Yes, a PLB works globally.

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• READ MORE: Tecnam Brings the P-Mentor to North America

About the P-Mentor

The post Tecnam Earns Part 23 Cert for P-Mentor appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

Pilots interested in an economical, fun-to-fly four-place aircraft should consider this 1957 Piper PA-22-150 Tri-Pacer, which is available for $64,000 on AircraftForSale.

Derived from the PA-20 Pacer taildragger, Piper’s PA-22 Tri-Pacer adds tricycle gear for surefooted handling in crosswinds and notably less expensive insurance premiums. Purists love Piper’s robust, fabric-covered tubular steel airframe, reasoning that it is superior to the stressed-skin aluminum fuselage construction utilized by Cessna and Beechcraft. The steel cage is said to provide better protection to occupants, and the fabric covering can make both inspection and repair easier than aluminum counterparts.

Equipped with a 150-horsepower Lycoming O-320 and a left-side rear door, the Tri-Pacer is equally happy bringing friends and pets along as it is toting camping equipment for weekend adventures. Although this particular example doesn’t have a rear seat installed, Piper parts are plentiful and not overly expensive compared to many other types. Beefy bungee-cord-equipped main gear holds up well to rough runways, and vortex generators provide crisp, responsive handling.

With only 2,650 hours on the airframe, 815 hours since the major overhaul of the engine, and only 355 hours since new cylinders were installed, this Tri-Pacer is poised to provide its next owner with many years of economical flying. Perhaps best of all, the fabric was replaced with Ceconite in 2003 and repainted in a classic scheme—a job easily worth over $40,000 alone.

But the owner didn’t stop there! A look inside reveals a completely new interior that was installed in 2016, including fresh soundproofing for a quieter, less fatiguing cabin environment. In addition to fresh carpet and upholstery, the panel is in outstanding shape, free from the ugly cracked and weathered plastic trim pieces that are so commonly found. A set of AV-30 digital gauges replace the heavy vacuum system, a Stratus ESG transponder provides ADS-B out, and a Garmin Aera 660 GPS is neatly installed in its recessed panel mount.

At $64,000, this Tri-Pacer is more expensive than many examples, but with over $40,000 in new paint and fabric and many thousands of dollars in new cylinders, updated interior, and advanced avionics, it seems to be an exceptional value that will likely provide decades of economical, trouble-free ownership.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

The post Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1957 Piper PA-22-150 Tri-Pacer appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

The fully equipped GFC 500 autopilot offers a straightforward, lightweight, and cost-effective upgrade path for a wide range of existing GA aircraft. With solid-state attitude and robust self-monitoring capabilities, the GFC 500 provides superior autopilot performance, enhanced reliability, and safety tools similar to those found in the popular GFC 700 autopilot.

• READ MORE: Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1958 Beechcraft J35 Bonanza

Featuring a user-friendly autopilot mode controller with large, dedicated keys and knobs, as well as a control wheel for easy adjustments to aircraft pitch, airspeed, and vertical speed, the GFC 500 stands out with its Level Mode. This feature returns the aircraft to straight-and-level flight with the push of a dedicated button. Additionally, GFC 500-equipped aircraft may benefit from Garmin Smart Glide, an innovative safety tool automating tasks to reduce pilot workload in the event of engine power loss.

In addition to traditional autopilot features such as altitude hold, vertical speed, and heading modes, the GFC 500 includes advanced capabilities like altitude preselect, VNAV2, underspeed and overspeed protection, allowing pilots to execute various coupled instrument approaches, including LPV, GPS, ILS, VOR, and missed approaches when paired with a compatible Garmin GPS navigator.

As a standard feature, the GFC 500 comes with Garmin Electronic Stability and Protection (ESP), functioning independently of the autopilot. ESP assists the pilot in maintaining a stable flight condition by subtly nudging the aircraft to avoid inadvertent flight attitudes or bank angles while hand-flying.

The GFC 500 autopilot seamlessly integrates with Garmin’s GI 275 or G5 electronic flight instruments. It offers versatility by combining with either a standby GI 275 or G5 electronic flight instrument interfaced to a G500 TXi flight display or a G3X Touch flight display.

Garmin continues to expand its aircraft compatibility list for the GFC 500 autopilot.

The post Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot Receives FAA STC for Beechcraft A35 and B35 Aircraft appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

“Due to multiple component availability limitations, comprehensive repair service for Garmin’s GNS 430/530 series is estimated to become limited in the years ahead,” the company said in a statement. “This includes all GPS/COM and GPS-only variants, as well as all WAAS models. Initially, these limitations are estimated to impact a small percentage of repairs in 2024.”

Garmin reported that it will continue offering repair service as long as the components required for the specific repair remain available. For products that the company has to return as unrepairable due to the announced unavailability of parts, a $500 per unit processing fee will be charged. Garmin will continue to provide database updates and technical support for the nav/coms.

Garmin is actively encouraging customers to transition to newer-generation products.

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Piper Aircraft revealed its most powerful single ever—the M700 Fury—in a livestream event Tuesday afternoon. The new $4.1 million M700 Fury adds a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-52 powerplant up front, flat-rated to 700 hp, giving the updated machine its name.

The extra power pushes the Fury past the 300-knot barrier to a maximum cruise speed of 301 ktas, according to the company. Piper expects FAA certification at the end of Q1 2024, with deliveries to follow shortly thereafter.

The M700 keeps the Garmin G3000 glass up front with its GTC touchscreen controllers and the Collier Trophy-winning Halo autoland emergency landing system on board.

READ MORE: Why the Piper M600 SLS Is So Remarkable

It also manages to keep the beast below 6,000 pounds maximum takeoff weight to retain its Basic Med compatibility status.

The M700 Fury will best the M600/SLS it replaces in a wide range of specs:

• Maximum range: 1,149 nm at 301 ktas maximum cruise speed / 1,424 nm at normal cruise
• Takeoff distance: 1,994 ft over a 50-ft obstacle, at sea level on a standard, 24 percent better than the M600 at 2,635 ft 
• Departure climb: 2,048 fpm at MTOW, 32 percent better than the M600
• Time to climb: 13.9 minutes to FL250, flying 34 nm and burning 97 pounds of fuel—-25 to 35 percent improvements over the M600
• Landing distance: 26 percent less ground roll compared to the M600

Garmin’s PlaneSync technology will add remote aircraft status capability via the Garmin Pilot app, with database downloads available while the aircraft is powered down and the pilot is away from the plane.

“The M700 Fury is a beautifully efficient, cross-country thoroughbred that gives our customers a performance-based flight experience with economics never seen before,” said Piper Aircraft’s president and CEO, John Calcagno. “We listened, and we delivered. The M700 Fury encompasses power, performance and the most advanced safety measures available today and an overall value proposition that is extremely compelling to individuals and corporate flight departments alike.”

Interior appointments include new leather and seat styling, with six choices for the Fury. Following first deliveries in the U.S., Piper will pursue validations with Canada, EASA, the U.K., and Brazil.

We’ll be putting the Fury to our own flight test soon—so stay tuned!

The post The Fastest Piper Single Ever Is Revealed, the M700 Fury appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

“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.

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Rethought from the inside out, the G7 series—including the SR20, SR22, and SR22T—takes cues from the Vision Jet to simplify operation while incorporating added safety and luxury features. All three 2024 models have completed the FAA type certification process and are ready for delivery.

We took an exclusive first series of flights with the striking new G7 in the SR22 version in early December for a We Fly pilot report that will debut in FLYING’s Issue 945/February 2024, reaching subscribers later this month. Till then, we can share a few key details. Further reporting will follow in an upcoming issue of Plane & Pilot.

Central to the updates is the reimagined Perspective Touch+ integrated flight deck with 12- or 14-inch high-resolution displays, and twin GTC touchscreen controllers, to mimic the functionality and redundancy available in the Vision Jet SF50–and the ease of using a smartphone. Engine start has transformed into a push-button interface, preserving the ability to check mags and set mixture while making the process feel similar to that of the SF50. The updated automated flight control system (AFCS) incorporates smart servos and includes an optional yaw damper. 

Updated synoptic pages and streamlined checklists aid the pilot in monitoring both systems and procedures throughout all phases of flight. And the Cirrus IQ app gives the pilot remote viewing and control of certain aircraft functions. Cirrus Global Connect delivers worldwide text messaging, telephone service, and global weather.

It’s telling that Cirrus Aircraft looked up the model line to its Vision Jet to drive out complexity from its core single-engine pistons, sending its engineers on a journey to find ways to make the SRs as straightforward to operate as the jet. While that sounds like a contradiction, perhaps, pilots have opined about the complexity involved in stepping down from a light jet back into the high-performance piston world.  

To this end, Cirrus has introduced a new shallower menu structure in the touchscreen controllers, along with a scroll wheel for turning through the CAS-linked, on-screen checklists smoothly. Still on the ground, Taxiway Routing and a contextualized 3D Safe Taxi guide the pilot around complex airport layouts, decluttering and slewing the PFD imagery to match the airplane’s speed and position on the airport. In the air, the automatic fuel selection system automatically switches between fuel tanks every 5 gallons.

Additional Safety Features

Pilots will also find an improved flight control, incorporating a stick shaker function to piggyback on the other envelope protection features in the Perspective+ series, for enhanced low-speed situational awareness. Both the left and right controls vibrate to warn of an approaching stall condition.


Another new addition to envelope protection is flap airspeed protection. The system monitors airspeed to protect the pilot from accidentally deploying or retracting flaps when the aircraft is traveling too fast or too slow for the given flap configuration change. 

A Stylish and Functional New Interior

In addition to the magic up front, Cirrus also rethought the interior, taking a page from current luxury vehicles to incorporate a host of new features, including redesigned interior panels, dimmable task lights, and ambient accent lighting. 

More rugged cup holders, more pockets, and two center console compartments efficiently store your smartphone and other key things for better cockpit organization and accessibility. Powered headset jacks and lighted high-power USB-C outlets come positioned within easy reach of each seat. 


First SR20 G7 Customer

While only one new TRAC20 (SR20) G7 has been built, it’s already wearing its school colors—those of Western Michigan University College of Aviation in Battle Creek. The Broncos are longtime Cirrus flight training operators and will incorporate the new models into their aviation degree programs. The school will take delivery in the first quarter for integration into the flightline.

Pilots across the board can opt into several training options for the new Cirrus line, including the OEM’s recently released Private Pilot Program—taking a prospective pilot from first flight to certification in their new airplane.

“Our mission is to increase participation in aviation, so more people can benefit from the freedom, productivity, and joy it provides,” said Zean Nielsen, CEO of Cirrus Aircraft. “We have also developed a comprehensive ecosystem, providing global sales, flight training, maintenance, and support to ensure our owners have a seamless ownership experience. Our aircraft are truly designed with people in mind, and the new SR Series G7 is a testament to that philosophy. Our team and our aircraft provide a clear path to enter and advance within the personal aviation community by learning to fly and eventually transition to the Vision Jet with ease.” 

The post Cirrus Unveils the G7 Editions of the SR20, SR22, and SR22T appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

The recently EASA-certified full glass cockpit comes with a full suite of Garmin avionics, a feature designed to meet the demands of professional aviation training. The design aligns well with the academy’s dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in flight training.

AFAE has also ordered an additional four aircraft, scheduled for delivery in early 2024. Compared to the current fleet of older-generation aircraft, the Elixir 100HP, a fourth-generation, two-seat plane that has been certified under EASA CS-23, offers a significant reduction in fuel consumption, by a factor of four, corresponding with a 50 percent decrease in noise emissions. 

AFAE is an Airbus subsidiary headquartered in Champniers, France—in close proximity to Elixir, located in La Rochelle, France, and established in 2015. AFAE, established in 2006, has accumulated more than 525,000 flight hours and 131,000 simulator hours, and maintains a fleet of more than 100 aircraft. With more than 80 planes on order and more than 200 preordered, Elixir Aircraft expects to shape the future of general aviation worldwide.

The post Airbus Flight Academy Europe Secures 4 New Elixirs 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. 

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