Powerful Learning, Inc., longtime a supplier of study materials for commercial aircraft pilots, has introduced three new software products for General Aviation pilots; the Private Pilot Study System, the Instrument Pilot Study System and the VFR Pilot Review System. These software packages are built around an entirely new concept that enables a student to learn more in less time. An integrated Aviation Library makes it easier for a student or previously rated pilot to continue learning and understand concepts more thoroughly.
Software Overview
The Private Pilot Study System and the Instrument Pilot Study System are specifically designed to aid the student working towards a certificate or rating. These products will help students prepare for both the FAA knowledge test and the flight test, and should be used from the first day of training. The VFR Pilot Review System is designed for the pilot who already has his or her Private Pilot Certificate and needs to continue the learning process and/ or prepare for a flight review.
All of the software designed by Powerful Learning incorporates three components:
Testing and Review Software
A Comprehensive Aviation Reference Library
Seamless Integration
The first component, Testing and Review Software, provides all of the functions and tools needed for a student to customize his or her learning experience. That includes, but is not limited to, random question generation, choosing question categories, marking questions for further review, having the ability to display the correct answer and concise explanations, and a comprehensive end-oftest report to help identify areas that need further study. Powerful Learning software contains some unique tools that enhance the learning experience. Among them are:
Additional, custom designed question and answer databanks that cover areas that are either not covered in the FAA knowledge test, or covered lightly (ex. interpreting METARs and TAFs).
An electronic Flashcard Mode
Integration with relevant, online courses
It is in this first component, the testing and review software, that the major differences between the products will be found.
The second component, an Aviation Reference Library, is also unique. Powerful Learning is the only software company on the market that provides this valuable reference source bundled with learning and testing software. The library is tailored to each software package and is very comprehensive. It includes books, Advisory Circulars and additional tools and guides. The ease of navigation makes it very easy for a student to cross-reference information on a single topic from multiple sources, thereby gaining different perspectives and better understanding. The library is installed on the user’s hard drive during product installation, making it available all of the time (i.e. no internet connection required).
Every document in the library can be kept up to date with one click from the main launch page of the software. When a user clicks the ‘Update Software’ button, the software communicates with the servers at Powerful Learning and determines if any documents in the library need to be updated. If needed, an update is downloaded and installed in a few seconds. Powerful Learning also offers an update notification service whereby users will be notified whenever there is a software update available for their product.
The third component, seamless integration, is at the heart of what makes this software so powerful. Because the reference library is ‘wrapped’ inside the software, the student has the ability to instantly access the information that is relevant to any question while working inside the learning environment. No matter what question a student is viewing, with one click, the appropriate book is retrieved from the library and opened to the correct chapter, page, and paragraph for that particular question. Not only that, but the relevant information is highlighted for instant recognition. Instead of spending their time searching for information, students can spend their time learning the material. Students will learn more in less time, understand the required material better, and become safer pilots!
A great tool for instructors, students and flight schools
The Aviation Library is a great standalone reference source for GA pilots, flight school owners, students, CFIs, corporate operators and examiners alike.
Flight instructors will find the Aviation Library to be comprehensive, with a navigation system that is quick and easy to use. Whether they are planning lessons, looking something up to show a student, or using it for their own education, the information they need is at their fingertips. Navigating between different books is a snap and makes it easier to cover a single topic from the various perspectives offered from different documents. The easy-to-navigate reference library is a great tool for verifying information (with an FAR/ AIM that is always current) crossreferencing information between many sources, developing questions, and checking candidates.
Either for flight schools that have a single computer or an entire learning center for student use, Powerful Learning offers site license arrangements and special pricing on their software. Contact them for more information.
Product Specifics - Private Pilot and Instrument Pilot software
The form and function of the Private Pilot Study System and the Instrument Pilot Study System are identical. The differences lie in the question and answer databanks and the material included in the Aviation Library. Each software package contains the appropriate FAA knowledge test databank plus additional databanks designed by Powerful Learning. The books and other materials found in the library are appropriate to the rating or certificate being sought.
Each software package has three Modes that questions and answers can be delivered in: a Learning Mode, a Test Mode and a Flashcard Mode.
When using the software, the first step is to choose which test database you would like to use. The Private Pilot Study System includes the FAA knowledge test plus 13 additional tests grouped by subject area. The Instrument Pilot Study System includes the FAA knowledge test plus nine additional tests to choose from.
In the Learning Mode, the question and answer databanks are highly customizable. Once a user chooses a test, he or she can further specify the category of questions delivered. For example, in the Private Pilot Study System, users can choose the ‘Lighting and Visual Aids’ test which consists of 52 questions. They can then choose from seven subcategories such as runway lighting, pilot controlled lighting, runway markings, etc. The Learning Mode includes a number of different tools to promote learning, with all of the buttons to access these learning tools arranged around the question and answer window. The result is an uncluttered screen that makes it easy to focus on what’s important; the question and answer.
The buttons arranged around the screen are as follows: Mark Question - allows a user to mark a question for later review; Show Answer - the correct answer is checked or filled in for the user; Explanation – a concise explanation is displayed for that question; LEARN – one of the most important buttons in this software. The LEARN button will retrieve the book from the library that is appropriate for that particular question. The book will be opened to the correct page and the section that contains relevant information for that question will be highlighted in yellow. The software is not simply displaying a section of the book, it is actually taking the user inside the library. This means that a user can not only read the immediate section that is displayed, but can navigate the entire library from this point, including reading information on the topic at hand from other documents in the library. The ability to easily cross-reference information from multiple documents on a single topic means that the student will gain a better understanding of the material. When the library window is closed, the student will be returned to the question and answer window.
In addition, there are Print, Help, and Users Manual buttons located on top of the question window. When a test is completed in the Learning Mode, a comprehensive end-of-test report is automatically generated. This report includes overall grade and grades by category, and displays all of the questions that were answered incorrectly along with the correct answer, and an explanation. Of course, this report can be printed.
The Test Mode is designed to emulate the testing environment the student will experience when taking the FAA knowledge test. When the knowledge test is loaded in the Test Mode, 60 random questions are selected from the FAA databank, loaded into the test window, and a 2-½ hour timer is started. At the end of the allotted time, the test is automatically ended and graded. All question and answer databanks can be launched in the Test Mode. When delivered in the Test Mode, all of the “help” buttons are disabled (i.e. the Show Answer button, Explanation button, Learn button, etc.). The student can truly test his or her knowledge using any of the test databanks!
The Flashcard Mode uses an entirely different method of question delivery and learning style. This mode emulates the time-tested method of studying using flashcards. In effect, questions are loaded onto an electronic flashcard at the top of the screen. This means that the question is displayed, but no answer choices are visible. When the user flips the card over (i.e. clicks the lower card), the answer and an explanation are revealed. There are a number of advantages to this method of study. When preparing to take the FAA knowledge test, the Flashcard Mode can be used to review questions and associate the correct answer with those questions – a great tool during the final stages of preparing for the knowledge test! The Flashcard mode is also more challenging than the multiple choice style. Displaying a question with no multiple choice answers removes the ‘guessing’ factor. This learning method will really test a student’s understanding of the required material.
Product Specifics – VFR Pilot Review System software
The VFR Pilot Review System package functions much differently than the Private Pilot and Instrument Pilot packages. This software is specifically designed for the already certificated pilot who needs to prepare for flight reviews and who also wants to continue learning. The software contains 12 question and answer databanks. Each databank deals with a different subject area (aerodynamics, performance, weather, etc.) and each subject area is broken down into subtopics. This allows an incredible amount of customization for the user.
Because the software was developed with the ‘flight review’ in mind, a heavy emphasis has been placed on questions being delivered in an open-ended style, much like the oral portion of a flight review. When questions are delivered in the openended style, the main window displays the question but no answer choices. When the Show Answer button is clicked, a window opens underneath the question displaying the answer, an explanation, and a library reference. Of course, just as with the Private Pilot Study System and the Instrument Pilot Study System, the LEARN button is available which will retrieve and open the appropriate book for the question being viewed; and highlight the section that applies to that question.
An additional benefit with the VFR Pilot Review System is the use of online courses. With many questions, when the Show Answer button is clicked and the answer and explanation window open, there will also be a link to an online course that is relevant to the question at hand. This, in effect, brings the power and depth of online courses to the user, exactly when it will benefit him or her the most. The user can skip the online course, take the course in part, or take the entire course. When the online course is closed, the student will be brought back to the place in the test from where they left off. Questions can also be delivered in the multiple choice style, allowing flexibility and variety for different learning styles.
Free Software for CFIs
Powerful Learning offers software to CFIs, free of charge. Requests for a free download can be made through their distributor, EDMO Distributors, Inc.
Additional Information
Please visit Powerful Learning online for more detailed information on each software package. Software can be purchased both in CD form and as a download from their web site. In addition, free demos are available in case you would like to ‘try it before you buy it’. Software can also be purchased on the wholesale level through their distributor, EDMO Distributors, Inc.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
FLIGHT SIMULATOR TECHNOLOGY AS A TEACHING AID
Simulators. For many, the very word conjures up visions of mammoth box-like machines articulating on hydraulic legs as if controlled by some remote alien intelligence rehearsing for a part in War of the Worlds. For others, a simulator or “sim” is simply a joystick, mouse, and a favorite desktop flight simulation program. Although the term simulator or full flight simulator (FFS) technically does refer specifically to those larger than life, multi-million dollar box-like machines mentioned above, simulator has become the all-encompassing word used almost universally to mean nearly any flight simulation setup.
Simulators, no matter how you choose to refer to them, have been around in one form or another almost as long as flight itself. They come in many flavors; the spectrum running the gamut from off-the-shelf mass appeal products that you can pick up at nearly any electronics superstore, to the specialized one-of-a-kind machines used in the space program. In this brief flight simulation introduction we’ll be focused toward the more down-to-earth variants, on the types of devices utilized in General Aviation (GA). A typical such device usually includes physical flight controls (e.g., joystick, yoke, rudder pedals), flight simulation software, and a computer.
It’s interesting to note that although the adoption and acceptance of simulators within the GA community has previously been rather conservative, sims have long been a training staple of the military, airlines, and NASA. Thanks however to rapid advances in the power of personal computers and wider acceptance of technology in general, sims in GA have become much more commonplace. No longer are sims considered some unobtainable technology requiring rooms full of computers and a budget that could run a small country. Rather, sims are now accessible by almost any individual or training organization wanting to integrate the numerous benefits of this technology into their training programs.
Why Simulators?
As the famous story goes, a person on the streets of New York asks a man, “Pardon me sir, but how do I get to Carnegie Hall?” The man replies, “Practice, practice, practice.” Indeed, practice is the key to becoming fundamentally good at anything. Flying is no different. But why practice using simulators as opposed to just going out and flying? There are actually several good reasons but paramount among them is the fact that simulators provide a unique opportunity to practice in a safe, distraction-free environment that is conducive to the concentrated focus necessary for true learning to take place. It’s just a fact that the actual aircraft cockpit can simply be a poor classroom depending on what is being taught, workload, weather, traffic, etc. In addition, there are some things that can be practiced in a sim that would be impractical and/or possibly dangerous to do in an actual aircraft. It should be noted however that simulators are uniquely suited to yield greater benefits for some disciplines within the art and science of flying more than others. An excellent example of this is instrument flying.
Blind Flight in Theory and Practice
In this first book on instrument flying published in 1932, authors William C. Ocker and Carl J. Crane used the term “blind flight” to refer to flight without reference to the “natural instrument” (the visually observed natural horizon). Although not immediately apparent or accepted as fact at the time, Ocker and Crane’s research determined that flight by reference to the instruments inside the aircraft became the only way for a pilot to survive the insidious effects of spatial disorientation (vertigo) when an aircraft was in cloud, fog, or when the pilot could not otherwise see the “natural instrument.” To combat this and to provide a means for the pilot to maintain spatial orientation, Ocker and Crane not only studied various instrument solutions but designed the “Aerial Flight Integrator” (an illustration of which appears from their 1936 patent). If you look closely you’ll notice that what Ocker and Crane proposed over 70 years ago looks like an amazingly similar mechanical version of today’s glass cockpit PFDs (primary flight displays).
As it turns out, simulators are excellent platforms for practicing the discipline of instrument flight. By their very nature simulators are the perfect tool to allow pilots to practice their instrument thinking and flying skills (i.e., instrument scan, procedure visualization, situational awareness, what-if scenarios, aeronautical decision making, etc.) before getting in the actual aircraft. Utilizing the sim in this manner is really nothing more than a sophisticated thought experiment in which the pilot mentally and physically rehearses the very processes he or she will use when aloft. Similar to “muscle memory” referred to in sports physiology, flight simulation helps pilots internalize procedures so execution becomes second nature, thus greatly improving safety, proficiency, and confidence.
Entertainment vs. Training
Who’s to say the pursuit of aeronautical perfection can’t be accompanied by some fun? Yes fun, that taboo word that is surgically removed from an adult’s vocabulary just when it becomes critical to mere survival. There are many simulation options available for people that don’t necessarily want to become pilots and yet long to experience what it’s like to maneuver an aircraft. Many aviation enthusiasts and pilots alike use simulation for entertainment purposes as well as for training and proficiency. In fact, many of the very products once thought to be games have become quite sophisticated over time giving them dual-purpose functionality as both entertainment and training tools. Clearly, the distinction between what is an entertainment product and what can be used for serious training has been somewhat blurred in recent years. Yet although blurred, there are some key elements to each, which are worth mentioning. Typical off-the-shelf variety mass-market flight simulation software products tend to have an abundance of rich, visual scenery—what the pilot sees looking out the virtual window—which appeals to a greater audience. These often do an excellent job all around and can be used by aviation enthusiasts or anyone seeking to experience the thrill of flight without having to become a pilot. (It’s noteworthy to mention that many pilots and flight instructors also use these products for training.) On the other hand, software and systems created specifically for instrument training tend to focus on flight model fidelity—how closely the aircraft flies to its real-world counterpart¬—and precise instrument depiction. These systems also typically have more tools with which a pilot and/or instructor can use to evaluate flight performance.
Abbreviation Soup
Many of the simulation systems in use today by flight schools and training organizations fall under the designation of ATD or Aviation Training Device. These FAA-approved systems are often used as an integral part of an initial flight training curriculum or as part of a recurrent training program. Students log the time spent on these devices based upon the allotted time allowed by the FAA for each certification level. For example: The system pictured here is certified as a BATD (Basic Aviation Training Device) which can be used to log 2.5 hours toward the Private Pilot License, 10 hours toward the instrument rating, and to maintain instrument currency. Other system designations such as FTD (Flight Training Device), AATD (Advanced Aviation Training Device), FSTD (Flight Simulation Training Device), to name a few, all have corresponding approval specifications and loggability allowances.
Is the Glass Half Full?
Perhaps no more timely an application for flight simulation exists than to learn the complex integrated avionics systems now proliferating General Aviation. These advanced “glass” cockpit systems found in second generation “Technically Advanced Aircraft” (TAA) literally represent the coming of a new age and the promise of nearly unlimited potential. At the same time however, the arrival of these sophisticated aircraft have created an unprecedented training and operational challenge never experienced in GA. The days of just jumping in an unfamiliar rental and going flying are all but gone. These integrated systems demand a level of understanding and functional proficiency as never before. It goes without saying that good stick-and-rudder skills are still vastly important, but now pilots must also become systems managers, learning to balance the combined skills of aircraft control, task management, systems management, and the complex flight environment of today’s busy airspace.
Pilots training in simulation devices equipped with glass cockpits gain a tremendous advantage by becoming familiar with these complex systems before jumping in the actual aircraft. The applicable training opportunities provided by such a device are nearly endless as pilots learn everything from basic instrument interpretation to emergency procedures, and beyond.
Simulation Information
Great resources on flight simulation abound. Any internet query using your favorite search engine will return relevant results. Additionally, here are two of the many publications available which can explain the ins and outs of using flight simulation in a training environment.
Advances in technology have made flight simulation tools of all kinds more widely accessible. This greater accessibility, along with precarious fuel costs and a need for meeting the training challenges posed by increasingly complex aircraft and airspace have helped to create a simulation renaissance. No doubt simulation use in General Aviation will continue to grow as more and more people embrace this beneficial technology and realize its great potential. After all, from the brain’s perspective it’s “virtually reality!”
Simulators, no matter how you choose to refer to them, have been around in one form or another almost as long as flight itself. They come in many flavors; the spectrum running the gamut from off-the-shelf mass appeal products that you can pick up at nearly any electronics superstore, to the specialized one-of-a-kind machines used in the space program. In this brief flight simulation introduction we’ll be focused toward the more down-to-earth variants, on the types of devices utilized in General Aviation (GA). A typical such device usually includes physical flight controls (e.g., joystick, yoke, rudder pedals), flight simulation software, and a computer.
It’s interesting to note that although the adoption and acceptance of simulators within the GA community has previously been rather conservative, sims have long been a training staple of the military, airlines, and NASA. Thanks however to rapid advances in the power of personal computers and wider acceptance of technology in general, sims in GA have become much more commonplace. No longer are sims considered some unobtainable technology requiring rooms full of computers and a budget that could run a small country. Rather, sims are now accessible by almost any individual or training organization wanting to integrate the numerous benefits of this technology into their training programs.
Why Simulators?
As the famous story goes, a person on the streets of New York asks a man, “Pardon me sir, but how do I get to Carnegie Hall?” The man replies, “Practice, practice, practice.” Indeed, practice is the key to becoming fundamentally good at anything. Flying is no different. But why practice using simulators as opposed to just going out and flying? There are actually several good reasons but paramount among them is the fact that simulators provide a unique opportunity to practice in a safe, distraction-free environment that is conducive to the concentrated focus necessary for true learning to take place. It’s just a fact that the actual aircraft cockpit can simply be a poor classroom depending on what is being taught, workload, weather, traffic, etc. In addition, there are some things that can be practiced in a sim that would be impractical and/or possibly dangerous to do in an actual aircraft. It should be noted however that simulators are uniquely suited to yield greater benefits for some disciplines within the art and science of flying more than others. An excellent example of this is instrument flying.
Blind Flight in Theory and Practice
In this first book on instrument flying published in 1932, authors William C. Ocker and Carl J. Crane used the term “blind flight” to refer to flight without reference to the “natural instrument” (the visually observed natural horizon). Although not immediately apparent or accepted as fact at the time, Ocker and Crane’s research determined that flight by reference to the instruments inside the aircraft became the only way for a pilot to survive the insidious effects of spatial disorientation (vertigo) when an aircraft was in cloud, fog, or when the pilot could not otherwise see the “natural instrument.” To combat this and to provide a means for the pilot to maintain spatial orientation, Ocker and Crane not only studied various instrument solutions but designed the “Aerial Flight Integrator” (an illustration of which appears from their 1936 patent). If you look closely you’ll notice that what Ocker and Crane proposed over 70 years ago looks like an amazingly similar mechanical version of today’s glass cockpit PFDs (primary flight displays).
As it turns out, simulators are excellent platforms for practicing the discipline of instrument flight. By their very nature simulators are the perfect tool to allow pilots to practice their instrument thinking and flying skills (i.e., instrument scan, procedure visualization, situational awareness, what-if scenarios, aeronautical decision making, etc.) before getting in the actual aircraft. Utilizing the sim in this manner is really nothing more than a sophisticated thought experiment in which the pilot mentally and physically rehearses the very processes he or she will use when aloft. Similar to “muscle memory” referred to in sports physiology, flight simulation helps pilots internalize procedures so execution becomes second nature, thus greatly improving safety, proficiency, and confidence.
Entertainment vs. Training
Who’s to say the pursuit of aeronautical perfection can’t be accompanied by some fun? Yes fun, that taboo word that is surgically removed from an adult’s vocabulary just when it becomes critical to mere survival. There are many simulation options available for people that don’t necessarily want to become pilots and yet long to experience what it’s like to maneuver an aircraft. Many aviation enthusiasts and pilots alike use simulation for entertainment purposes as well as for training and proficiency. In fact, many of the very products once thought to be games have become quite sophisticated over time giving them dual-purpose functionality as both entertainment and training tools. Clearly, the distinction between what is an entertainment product and what can be used for serious training has been somewhat blurred in recent years. Yet although blurred, there are some key elements to each, which are worth mentioning. Typical off-the-shelf variety mass-market flight simulation software products tend to have an abundance of rich, visual scenery—what the pilot sees looking out the virtual window—which appeals to a greater audience. These often do an excellent job all around and can be used by aviation enthusiasts or anyone seeking to experience the thrill of flight without having to become a pilot. (It’s noteworthy to mention that many pilots and flight instructors also use these products for training.) On the other hand, software and systems created specifically for instrument training tend to focus on flight model fidelity—how closely the aircraft flies to its real-world counterpart¬—and precise instrument depiction. These systems also typically have more tools with which a pilot and/or instructor can use to evaluate flight performance.
Abbreviation Soup
Many of the simulation systems in use today by flight schools and training organizations fall under the designation of ATD or Aviation Training Device. These FAA-approved systems are often used as an integral part of an initial flight training curriculum or as part of a recurrent training program. Students log the time spent on these devices based upon the allotted time allowed by the FAA for each certification level. For example: The system pictured here is certified as a BATD (Basic Aviation Training Device) which can be used to log 2.5 hours toward the Private Pilot License, 10 hours toward the instrument rating, and to maintain instrument currency. Other system designations such as FTD (Flight Training Device), AATD (Advanced Aviation Training Device), FSTD (Flight Simulation Training Device), to name a few, all have corresponding approval specifications and loggability allowances.
Is the Glass Half Full?
Perhaps no more timely an application for flight simulation exists than to learn the complex integrated avionics systems now proliferating General Aviation. These advanced “glass” cockpit systems found in second generation “Technically Advanced Aircraft” (TAA) literally represent the coming of a new age and the promise of nearly unlimited potential. At the same time however, the arrival of these sophisticated aircraft have created an unprecedented training and operational challenge never experienced in GA. The days of just jumping in an unfamiliar rental and going flying are all but gone. These integrated systems demand a level of understanding and functional proficiency as never before. It goes without saying that good stick-and-rudder skills are still vastly important, but now pilots must also become systems managers, learning to balance the combined skills of aircraft control, task management, systems management, and the complex flight environment of today’s busy airspace.
Pilots training in simulation devices equipped with glass cockpits gain a tremendous advantage by becoming familiar with these complex systems before jumping in the actual aircraft. The applicable training opportunities provided by such a device are nearly endless as pilots learn everything from basic instrument interpretation to emergency procedures, and beyond.
Simulation Information
Great resources on flight simulation abound. Any internet query using your favorite search engine will return relevant results. Additionally, here are two of the many publications available which can explain the ins and outs of using flight simulation in a training environment.
Advances in technology have made flight simulation tools of all kinds more widely accessible. This greater accessibility, along with precarious fuel costs and a need for meeting the training challenges posed by increasingly complex aircraft and airspace have helped to create a simulation renaissance. No doubt simulation use in General Aviation will continue to grow as more and more people embrace this beneficial technology and realize its great potential. After all, from the brain’s perspective it’s “virtually reality!”
ANR HEADPHONES BY SENNHEISER
When flying, pilots rely on high-quality, noise canceling headsets for a peaceful flight and clear communication. Sennheiser developed the exclusive NoiseGard™ technology, which actively reduces ambient noise near the ear. The NoiseGard™ technology than reverses the ambient noise signal by 180 degrees and creates a corresponding “anti-noise” wave that almost totally cancels out the original noise. As a result, surrounding noise is significantly decreased.
But this technology is not just meant for the cockpit. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, airplane passengers can enjoy some solitude even on a crowded flight with Sennheiser’s line of noise canceling in-flight headphones.
PXC 450
Outstanding sound quality and undisturbed music enjoyment even in noisy environments. The PXC 450 is a premium circumaural travel headphone set featuring Sennheiser’s exclusive NoiseGard™ 2.0 active noise compensation system, which effectively reduces up to 90% of ambient noise. The extremely comfortable headphones offer audiophile grade sound combined with a foldable construction for maximum enjoyment and convenient storage. The innovative new TalkThrough function allows the user to communicate with neighbors without taking off the headphones. Unwanted background noise, such as the roar of the airplane engines, is filtered out so that only the neighbor’s voice is passed on through the headphones at top quality. Just one AAA battery is all it takes for up to 16 hours of serene enjoyment. The PXC 450 is foldable and is supplied complete with a transport case, 2 AAA batteries and audio adapters. This headset will function as a passive headset when used without batteries. Two year warranty, MSRP $399.95.
PXC 350
Pure listening pleasure even in noisy environments. The PXC 350 is a circumaural high-end travel headphone set with NoiseGard™ Advance active noise technology. This technology enables even better active attenuation of ambient noise of up to 85%. It is of course also possible to use these headphones passively, i.e. without NoiseGard™ and without batteries. The PXC 350 enables an unprecedented sound experience for people on the move, thanks to its adaptive baffle damping in combination with the patented Duofol diaphragms, which prevent unwanted partial oscillation and thus guarantee a highly natural, lifelike sound quality. The PXC 350 is foldable and is supplied complete with a practical transport case, 2 AAA batteries and audio adaptors. Volume control integrated in the single-sided cable, which is detachable and replaceable, ensures maximum convenience for the user. Two year warranty, MSRP $299.95.
PXC 250
Sennheiser’s PXC 250 headphones are the ideal travel companion. The closed supra-aural headphones deliver superb noise cancellation while providing excellent sound quality. The NoiseGard™ technology reduces nearly ¾ of the ambient noise, so individuals can enjoy their music in peace. The lightweight, mini headphones fold up easily and fit snugly in the included soft case for convenient storage. The case easily slips into carry-on bag, purse or even a shirt pocket for optimum convenience. The PXC 250 also comes with batteries and adaptors for in-flight entertainment system
But this technology is not just meant for the cockpit. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, airplane passengers can enjoy some solitude even on a crowded flight with Sennheiser’s line of noise canceling in-flight headphones.
PXC 450
Outstanding sound quality and undisturbed music enjoyment even in noisy environments. The PXC 450 is a premium circumaural travel headphone set featuring Sennheiser’s exclusive NoiseGard™ 2.0 active noise compensation system, which effectively reduces up to 90% of ambient noise. The extremely comfortable headphones offer audiophile grade sound combined with a foldable construction for maximum enjoyment and convenient storage. The innovative new TalkThrough function allows the user to communicate with neighbors without taking off the headphones. Unwanted background noise, such as the roar of the airplane engines, is filtered out so that only the neighbor’s voice is passed on through the headphones at top quality. Just one AAA battery is all it takes for up to 16 hours of serene enjoyment. The PXC 450 is foldable and is supplied complete with a transport case, 2 AAA batteries and audio adapters. This headset will function as a passive headset when used without batteries. Two year warranty, MSRP $399.95.
PXC 350
Pure listening pleasure even in noisy environments. The PXC 350 is a circumaural high-end travel headphone set with NoiseGard™ Advance active noise technology. This technology enables even better active attenuation of ambient noise of up to 85%. It is of course also possible to use these headphones passively, i.e. without NoiseGard™ and without batteries. The PXC 350 enables an unprecedented sound experience for people on the move, thanks to its adaptive baffle damping in combination with the patented Duofol diaphragms, which prevent unwanted partial oscillation and thus guarantee a highly natural, lifelike sound quality. The PXC 350 is foldable and is supplied complete with a practical transport case, 2 AAA batteries and audio adaptors. Volume control integrated in the single-sided cable, which is detachable and replaceable, ensures maximum convenience for the user. Two year warranty, MSRP $299.95.
PXC 250
Sennheiser’s PXC 250 headphones are the ideal travel companion. The closed supra-aural headphones deliver superb noise cancellation while providing excellent sound quality. The NoiseGard™ technology reduces nearly ¾ of the ambient noise, so individuals can enjoy their music in peace. The lightweight, mini headphones fold up easily and fit snugly in the included soft case for convenient storage. The case easily slips into carry-on bag, purse or even a shirt pocket for optimum convenience. The PXC 250 also comes with batteries and adaptors for in-flight entertainment system
Buying Pilot Supplies Online in UK
The web houses a vast selection of aviation websites offering a plethora of pilot goodies. PPL Mania has trawled the Internet to bring you some of the most competitive and safest places to buy online. We have compiled a list of approved online retailers. Our approved online retailers have met our standards of ease-of-use, reputation, safety whilst being overall reliable in their services.
If you frequently shop online then you will know that it is relatively safe, in fact it could be argued that it is more safer than handing over your card at a petrol station! You will know which sites have served you well in the past. But what do you do if you come across a site that you haven’t used before?
Well, if you haven’t had any past experiences from the website you are buying from then pause for a moment before handing over your credit or debit card details. Take time out to carry out some ‘common sense’ checks:
Does the online store have adequate contacts details?
Is there a UK postal address that can be contacted?
Is there a telephone number on the website?
Perhaps ring the company number to check it is real!
Does the site use secure channels when purchasing?
We would strongly advise against entering your personal information / credit card details on a site that does not use secure channels. You can see if a website is using secure channels by looking for a key icon within your browser at the point of entering your personal details. Another check can be examining the address ‘https://’ usually indicates that the site is using encrypted communication.
Other common-sense questions
Several other common sense question you should ask yourself before buying online is to ask yourself is "What is the refund policy on the product(s) you are buying?"
"Is there a customer services department that can help if problems are encountered with the order process, the product itself or delivery of that product?"
Consider doing a ‘Google’ search on the company! It may reveal some interesting things! Good or bad reviews!
Does the website have a ‘terms and conditions’ statement? If so read this. I would generally not use a website that didn’t have a terms and conditions or data privacy statement in place. But some may chose to otherwise.
At this point, if you feel uncomfortable with going ahead with the purchase then consider an alternative online store.
Things to be aware of
Remember those postage and packaging charges! I always check first before browsing the online store so I know what to add on the end. Different stores differ in their postage and packaging prices so keep a close eye on this! It is a bonus if the site offers ‘Free postage and packaging’; offers like this are not to be sniffed at!
Does the price quoted include or exclude the 17.5% value added tax? Sometimes when shopping for pilot supplies I think to myself ‘wow, that is really cheap’ only to discover at the checkout that VAT was not included in the initial price and then 17.5% is added! Quite annoying to say the least! I presume it is beneficial to a buyer who can reclaim the VAT.
Look out for those online discounts. I have seen a couple of online stores that offer 2% when ordering online. That 2% discount will save you about a fiver when buying a middle of the road David Clarke headset. Also lookout for certain coupon codes from magazines / Internet, these promotional codes can save you a small fortune as well.
If you are purchasing items from a website that isn’t listed as a reputable online pilot supply website, that does not mean it is disreputable by any means.
Be cautious buying from websites that are outside of the UK or European Union. Last year I purchased the David Clarke 10-13X headset in the United States saving a whopping £150 only then to find out that UK Customs and Excise intercepted the headset and calculated an import duty charge of £80. Do check this. On another note I have heard of people who order from websites outside of the UK to ask the seller to prepare the package as a gift, and write the words “Happy Birthday” on the parcel. Apparently, a one off gift is not classed as taxable items that enter the UK. But you may wish to confirm this yourself
If you frequently shop online then you will know that it is relatively safe, in fact it could be argued that it is more safer than handing over your card at a petrol station! You will know which sites have served you well in the past. But what do you do if you come across a site that you haven’t used before?
Well, if you haven’t had any past experiences from the website you are buying from then pause for a moment before handing over your credit or debit card details. Take time out to carry out some ‘common sense’ checks:
Does the online store have adequate contacts details?
Is there a UK postal address that can be contacted?
Is there a telephone number on the website?
Perhaps ring the company number to check it is real!
Does the site use secure channels when purchasing?
We would strongly advise against entering your personal information / credit card details on a site that does not use secure channels. You can see if a website is using secure channels by looking for a key icon within your browser at the point of entering your personal details. Another check can be examining the address ‘https://’ usually indicates that the site is using encrypted communication.
Other common-sense questions
Several other common sense question you should ask yourself before buying online is to ask yourself is "What is the refund policy on the product(s) you are buying?"
"Is there a customer services department that can help if problems are encountered with the order process, the product itself or delivery of that product?"
Consider doing a ‘Google’ search on the company! It may reveal some interesting things! Good or bad reviews!
Does the website have a ‘terms and conditions’ statement? If so read this. I would generally not use a website that didn’t have a terms and conditions or data privacy statement in place. But some may chose to otherwise.
At this point, if you feel uncomfortable with going ahead with the purchase then consider an alternative online store.
Things to be aware of
Remember those postage and packaging charges! I always check first before browsing the online store so I know what to add on the end. Different stores differ in their postage and packaging prices so keep a close eye on this! It is a bonus if the site offers ‘Free postage and packaging’; offers like this are not to be sniffed at!
Does the price quoted include or exclude the 17.5% value added tax? Sometimes when shopping for pilot supplies I think to myself ‘wow, that is really cheap’ only to discover at the checkout that VAT was not included in the initial price and then 17.5% is added! Quite annoying to say the least! I presume it is beneficial to a buyer who can reclaim the VAT.
Look out for those online discounts. I have seen a couple of online stores that offer 2% when ordering online. That 2% discount will save you about a fiver when buying a middle of the road David Clarke headset. Also lookout for certain coupon codes from magazines / Internet, these promotional codes can save you a small fortune as well.
If you are purchasing items from a website that isn’t listed as a reputable online pilot supply website, that does not mean it is disreputable by any means.
Be cautious buying from websites that are outside of the UK or European Union. Last year I purchased the David Clarke 10-13X headset in the United States saving a whopping £150 only then to find out that UK Customs and Excise intercepted the headset and calculated an import duty charge of £80. Do check this. On another note I have heard of people who order from websites outside of the UK to ask the seller to prepare the package as a gift, and write the words “Happy Birthday” on the parcel. Apparently, a one off gift is not classed as taxable items that enter the UK. But you may wish to confirm this yourself
Avoid Airspace Infringements
Airspace infringements continue to be one of the UK’s main aviation safety risks. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), through its Airspace Infringements Working Group, is currently working with industry to tackle the issue. With the start of the summer flying season now upon us, the Group has issued a list of top ten tips to avoid an infringement.
How not to infringe - The 10 tips from the CAA
Tip 1.
Navigation is a skill, and needs to be practised regularly, both planning a flight and conducting it. Safety Sense Leaflet 5 (available on the CAA website and in the LASORS publication) contains good advice on VFR navigation, but it only works if you read and apply it!
Tip 2.
If you plan a route through controlled airspace, remember that a crossing clearance may not always be possible and consider that route as your ‘secondary’ plan. Your primary plan should avoid controlled airspace -and don’t forget to make your overall time and fuel calculations using the longer, primary route!
Tip 3.
Where possible, avoid planning to fly close to controlled airspace boundaries. If you do need to do so, be very careful. A small navigational error or distraction of any sort can lead to an infringement – and it doesn’t take much to ruin your day!
Tip 4.
Pilot workload rises rapidly in less than ideal weather - and so do infringements. If the weather starts to deteriorate, consider your options early and if necessary divert or turn back in good time.
Tip 5.
If you wish to transit controlled airspace, think about what you need to ask for in advance and call the appropriate Air Traffic Control (ATC) unit at 10 nautical miles or five minutes flying time from the airspace boundary. This gives the controller time to plan ahead.
Tip 6.
Thinking before you press the transmit switch and using the correct Radio phraseology helps air traffic control to help you - and sounds more professional!
Tip 7.
Be aware that ATC may be busy when you call them – just because the frequency doesn’t sound busy doesn’t mean that the controller isn’t busy on another frequency or on landlines.
Tip 8.
Remember - the instruction ‘Standby’ means just that; it is not an ATC clearance and not even a precursor to a clearance. The controller is probably busy so continue to plan to fly around the airspace. Only fly across the airspace if the controller issues a crossing clearance.
Tip 9.
Your planned route through controlled airspace may appear simple on your chart but the traffic patterns within that airspace may make it unrealistic in practice. Be prepared for a crossing clearance that does not exactly match your planned route but will allow you to transit safely.
Tip 10.
Don’t be afraid to call ATC and use the transponder when lost or uncertain of your position - overcoming your embarrassment may prevent an infringement which may in turn prevent an Airprox (or worse).
How not to infringe - The 10 tips from the CAA
Tip 1.
Navigation is a skill, and needs to be practised regularly, both planning a flight and conducting it. Safety Sense Leaflet 5 (available on the CAA website and in the LASORS publication) contains good advice on VFR navigation, but it only works if you read and apply it!
Tip 2.
If you plan a route through controlled airspace, remember that a crossing clearance may not always be possible and consider that route as your ‘secondary’ plan. Your primary plan should avoid controlled airspace -and don’t forget to make your overall time and fuel calculations using the longer, primary route!
Tip 3.
Where possible, avoid planning to fly close to controlled airspace boundaries. If you do need to do so, be very careful. A small navigational error or distraction of any sort can lead to an infringement – and it doesn’t take much to ruin your day!
Tip 4.
Pilot workload rises rapidly in less than ideal weather - and so do infringements. If the weather starts to deteriorate, consider your options early and if necessary divert or turn back in good time.
Tip 5.
If you wish to transit controlled airspace, think about what you need to ask for in advance and call the appropriate Air Traffic Control (ATC) unit at 10 nautical miles or five minutes flying time from the airspace boundary. This gives the controller time to plan ahead.
Tip 6.
Thinking before you press the transmit switch and using the correct Radio phraseology helps air traffic control to help you - and sounds more professional!
Tip 7.
Be aware that ATC may be busy when you call them – just because the frequency doesn’t sound busy doesn’t mean that the controller isn’t busy on another frequency or on landlines.
Tip 8.
Remember - the instruction ‘Standby’ means just that; it is not an ATC clearance and not even a precursor to a clearance. The controller is probably busy so continue to plan to fly around the airspace. Only fly across the airspace if the controller issues a crossing clearance.
Tip 9.
Your planned route through controlled airspace may appear simple on your chart but the traffic patterns within that airspace may make it unrealistic in practice. Be prepared for a crossing clearance that does not exactly match your planned route but will allow you to transit safely.
Tip 10.
Don’t be afraid to call ATC and use the transponder when lost or uncertain of your position - overcoming your embarrassment may prevent an infringement which may in turn prevent an Airprox (or worse).
Air Transport Intelligence
Air Transport Intelligence (ATI) is the leading online intelligence service for the global air transport industry, providing fast access to real-time news and data 24 hours a day. It provides air transport professionals with timely and accurate market intelligence.
Over 30,000 air transport professionals access ATI every day for data that secures a competitive advantage in winning business, saving time and ensuring that a vital story is never missed.
The vast amount of data that ATI provides is advanced, detailed and accurate, allowing experts in the aviation industry to gain a competitive edge.
ATI provides:
Real time global air transport news coverage
Personalised email alerts to focus on your clients and prospects
Essential data and extensive profiles on over 2600 airlines
Market data, rankings and analysis from Airline Business
World respected ICAO Airline Traffic and Financial reports
Airline filing information directly from FAA and US DOT
Commentary and analysis on over 2000 airports worldwide
Routes & schedule data including route maps from Innovata
Searchable archive offering access to ATI, Airline Business & Flight International
Over 30,000 air transport professionals access ATI every day for data that secures a competitive advantage in winning business, saving time and ensuring that a vital story is never missed.
The vast amount of data that ATI provides is advanced, detailed and accurate, allowing experts in the aviation industry to gain a competitive edge.
ATI provides:
Real time global air transport news coverage
Personalised email alerts to focus on your clients and prospects
Essential data and extensive profiles on over 2600 airlines
Market data, rankings and analysis from Airline Business
World respected ICAO Airline Traffic and Financial reports
Airline filing information directly from FAA and US DOT
Commentary and analysis on over 2000 airports worldwide
Routes & schedule data including route maps from Innovata
Searchable archive offering access to ATI, Airline Business & Flight International
AIRSHOW SEASON 2009 To Show or Not to Show?
regarding how the current state of the economy is affecting business, and are happy to report that for the most part businesses are indicating little or minimal negative affects as of yet. At the same time many businesses are not expressing a great deal of confidence or optimism for the upcoming year. This lack of confidence and optimism is leading many businesses to evaluate and re-evaluate their approach and attendance for the 2009 Air Show Season. If you find yourself in this category you may want to consider some of the following suggestions before finalizing your decisions.
Be the Exhibitor that is at the Show – It is common knowledge that many businesses and individuals became very successful because they were willing to take risks during the Great Depression. You can use this same process to your advantage during the current challenging times. At a time when many businesses are considering, and many will choose to reduce or even not attend the shows, yours can be the business pilots are buying from. The Shows will go on, the patrons will attend, and those in attendance will be looking to buy.
Create your own “SHOW”- If you cannot justify going to a show to find the customers, create your own “show” and bring the customers to you. With a small amount of coordination and advertising a one day open house with product seminars is a great way to bring customers and sales to your business. Host a couple manufacturer or distributor reps and have them conduct seminars on their new or hot products. They will create excitement for their products and even become your sales staff for a day.
Diversify your Product Lines – No matter what your niche or specialty, business is never static. It is important to be informed and ahead of the curve when new products or improved products become available. Additionally, it can be advantageous to offer different products to your customers. A good plan is to find low cost products that move relatively easily. These smaller purchases keep the customer buying from you and create opportunities for sales of larger ticket items. Talk to your suppliers. Have them make suggestions on products that move well for them, that you are not currently selling to your customers.
Run Show Specials – It is important for all pilot shops to communicate with distributors and suppliers about the products they will be promoting during the upcoming show season. Many times they will allow all of their customers to promote “show specials” during the time of the show. If you get in the habit of promoting these specials you customers will also get in the habit of looking to you first for these show specials.
Regardless of the decision you make, it is important to make a decision and create a plan that allows you to access the sales that will inevitably be created by the upcoming show season!
Be the Exhibitor that is at the Show – It is common knowledge that many businesses and individuals became very successful because they were willing to take risks during the Great Depression. You can use this same process to your advantage during the current challenging times. At a time when many businesses are considering, and many will choose to reduce or even not attend the shows, yours can be the business pilots are buying from. The Shows will go on, the patrons will attend, and those in attendance will be looking to buy.
Create your own “SHOW”- If you cannot justify going to a show to find the customers, create your own “show” and bring the customers to you. With a small amount of coordination and advertising a one day open house with product seminars is a great way to bring customers and sales to your business. Host a couple manufacturer or distributor reps and have them conduct seminars on their new or hot products. They will create excitement for their products and even become your sales staff for a day.
Diversify your Product Lines – No matter what your niche or specialty, business is never static. It is important to be informed and ahead of the curve when new products or improved products become available. Additionally, it can be advantageous to offer different products to your customers. A good plan is to find low cost products that move relatively easily. These smaller purchases keep the customer buying from you and create opportunities for sales of larger ticket items. Talk to your suppliers. Have them make suggestions on products that move well for them, that you are not currently selling to your customers.
Run Show Specials – It is important for all pilot shops to communicate with distributors and suppliers about the products they will be promoting during the upcoming show season. Many times they will allow all of their customers to promote “show specials” during the time of the show. If you get in the habit of promoting these specials you customers will also get in the habit of looking to you first for these show specials.
Regardless of the decision you make, it is important to make a decision and create a plan that allows you to access the sales that will inevitably be created by the upcoming show season!
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