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!”
Saturday, January 31, 2009
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!
QUEST AIRCRAFT COMPANY KODIAK - REDEFINING UTILITY
Quest Aircraft Company, LLC, headquartered in Sandpoint, Idaho, is the manufacturer of the KODIAK, a new 10-seat single engine turboprop utility airplane. The aircraft is built around a commitment to modern STOL design, rugged construction, turbine power, and high useful load.
The origins of Quest began in 1998 with the start of Idaho Air Group — the product of co-visionaries Tom Hamilton and Dave Voetmann who recognized the need for a modern backcountry aircraft designed to meet the extraordinary demands of humanitarian aviation. Along with an early group of visionaries, they put the KODIAK on paper and went out in search of funding.
The company was officially launched in May 2001, and by that summer employed a staff of 14. On October 16, 2002, the 27,000 square foot new Quest facility was officially dedicated and the team moved the production work to its current home at the Sandpoint Municipal Airport. Work began on the prototype aircraft.
Two years later to the day, the first flight of the KODIAK (N490KQ) took place and then in March 2007 s/n 001, the first fully conforming production aircraft, made its initial flight and joined the KODIAK prototype in the flight test program. The KODIAK received FAA Type Certification on May 30 2007, and began customer deliveries in December. To-date, seven KODIAKs have been delivered.
Quest has seen strong market acceptance in key market segments, including personal use, Part 135 operations, government, and humanitarian organizations. Customer orders have exceeded expectations and the company has a 3-year backlog, which it is working to bring down as production ramps up.
The KODIAK’s rugged aluminum construction combines superior STOL performance and high useful load. It offers proven turbine reliability with the Pratt & Whitney PT6 turbine engine, is capable of operating off floats without structural
upgrades, and has the ability to land on unimproved surfaces. The KODIAK can take off in under 700 feet at full gross takeoff weight of 6,750 lbs and climb at over 1,700 feet per minute The robust landing gear allows the KODIAK to easily handle unimproved airstrips, and it is designed for floats and amphibs. A 3-panel Garmin G1000 integrated avionics suite is standard equipment on the KODIAK.
In October 2005, the company completed a 57,000 square foot expansion to its facility that houses the KODIAK production line, bringing the size of the Quest facility to 84,000 square feet. The company continues to grow in terms of personnel as well, with over 250 skilled employees now at the Sandpoint facility. Additional facility expansion is planned over the next several years as well.
The origins of Quest began in 1998 with the start of Idaho Air Group — the product of co-visionaries Tom Hamilton and Dave Voetmann who recognized the need for a modern backcountry aircraft designed to meet the extraordinary demands of humanitarian aviation. Along with an early group of visionaries, they put the KODIAK on paper and went out in search of funding.
The company was officially launched in May 2001, and by that summer employed a staff of 14. On October 16, 2002, the 27,000 square foot new Quest facility was officially dedicated and the team moved the production work to its current home at the Sandpoint Municipal Airport. Work began on the prototype aircraft.
Two years later to the day, the first flight of the KODIAK (N490KQ) took place and then in March 2007 s/n 001, the first fully conforming production aircraft, made its initial flight and joined the KODIAK prototype in the flight test program. The KODIAK received FAA Type Certification on May 30 2007, and began customer deliveries in December. To-date, seven KODIAKs have been delivered.
Quest has seen strong market acceptance in key market segments, including personal use, Part 135 operations, government, and humanitarian organizations. Customer orders have exceeded expectations and the company has a 3-year backlog, which it is working to bring down as production ramps up.
The KODIAK’s rugged aluminum construction combines superior STOL performance and high useful load. It offers proven turbine reliability with the Pratt & Whitney PT6 turbine engine, is capable of operating off floats without structural
upgrades, and has the ability to land on unimproved surfaces. The KODIAK can take off in under 700 feet at full gross takeoff weight of 6,750 lbs and climb at over 1,700 feet per minute The robust landing gear allows the KODIAK to easily handle unimproved airstrips, and it is designed for floats and amphibs. A 3-panel Garmin G1000 integrated avionics suite is standard equipment on the KODIAK.
In October 2005, the company completed a 57,000 square foot expansion to its facility that houses the KODIAK production line, bringing the size of the Quest facility to 84,000 square feet. The company continues to grow in terms of personnel as well, with over 250 skilled employees now at the Sandpoint facility. Additional facility expansion is planned over the next several years as well.
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