There are some things that every pilot just needs to own. A topic that frequently comes up with new students: “What do I need?” The truth of the matter is there are somethings you need right away and others that can wait…but not too long. I’ve arranged a list of the top 10 things every pilot should own.
1. FAR/AIM:
Boring I know, but how can we fly by the rules if we don’t own a copy of the book? Having been through all of my licenses, ratings, endorsements, etc… It’s the one book I know I can turn to in order to find 95% of my answers. Order your 2010 FAR/AIM
2. POH:
(Pilot’s Operating Handbook) When do I rotate? What’s Vy again? How does my fuel system work? These are all answered in you POH along with copies of your checklists printed by the manufacturer.
3. Current Charts:
Things change and it’s important your charts stay up to date. My instructor would refuse to fly with me If I didn’t have current charts! I’ve even seen people bust checkrides because of out of date charts!
4. GATS Jar:
A what? For those of you not familiar you can view one here. A GATS Jar allows you to sump your fuel and pour it safely back into the fuel tanks without contaminating them. Why should you own one? You never know when the opportunity of flight may happen. I’ve had several people ask “Can you take my plane here.” After looking around you don’t seem to find a GATS Jar anywhere in the cockpit, would you go flying without sumping the tanks? I hope not!
5. E6B:
Before you enter into the world of cross country flying with your instructor you’ll need an E6B. Now I’ve heard the argument “But my computer does everything for me.” Can you bring your computer along when we’re scuding running at 1,000 feet diverting for weather? Nope. Pick out an E6B
6. INOP Covers:
This may be more for instrument students but private pilots take note. If you had a vacuum system failure, your heading indicator and attitude indicator would not only be reading incorrect, but they would be sporadic. This could be very distracting to your instrument scan. Having INOP covers would allow you to hide these instruments thus making it easier on your eyes for the scan.
7. AOPA Subscription:
I recommend this strongly. AOPA has done wonders for general aviation and has helped me create a career in general aviation. I’m an avid member and advocate for their “General Aviation Serves America” campaign.
8. Headset:
A good headset may set you back some, but it’s an investment on your ears and if you plan on having any career in aviation your ears are important. I started with a set of David Clarks
9. Handheld Radio:
What if you experience an electrically failure? You remember your light gun signals and/or your IFR lost comm procudures but wouldn’t it be nice to talk to someone! Anyone! I use my handheld for everything from listing to traffic while relaxing, watching my students solo, copying IFR clearances on the ground etc… Knock on wood I’ve yet to need one in an emergency, but if the need arose I’d be ready.
10. Handheld GPS:
This goes right along with the handheld radio, it’s the classic “what if” questions we ask. If your electrically system failed could you get back safely? With a handheld GPS you sure increase your chances. I personally own a Lowrance 600c It has a great “glass panel mode” that would really help if the need came up. It’s also WASS enabled so I can use it as a backup altimeter.
As a pilot we need to equip ourselves to operate as safely as possible, preparation and having the right gear for the job is certainly a great start!
