Cool Products For Pilots And Aviation Enthusiasts

The recently FAA-approved Robinson cargo hook gives R66 fliers the ability to carry heavy external loads---up to 1,200 pounds' worthwhile easily managing them from the cockpit.

Thanks to the presence of both right- and left-seat controls, the hook can be controlled in solo flight from either side of the cockpit, although the system's hydraulic switch and start button are located on the left-seat side. The left-seat pilot can monitor the cargo weight using a load weight gauge located on the door sill, while a second series of power gauges on the door sill allows for the monitoring of torque and gas temperature. The hook also allows for remote control of external equipment, such as a water-dropping bucket.

For external load operations, the max gross weight of the R66 tops out at 2,900 pounds, as opposed to the traditional max of 2,700 pounds.

Learn more at Robinsonheli.com

This compact carrying case from Sporty's provides an easy way to organize all of your flight gear and keep it within reach during your trip. The case splits down the middle and features a large top handle, allowing it to drape over a seat or other divider. The case is equipped with several large mesh pockets on each side for easy storage. It also features a dedicated pen holder and flashlight holder.

The case is just shy of 1 foot long in height, width and length, making it a good option for a tight-fit cockpit. The bag is priced at $34.95.

Learn more at Sporty's.

Copenhagen-based makers of the popular MATE bike have unveiled their newest creation in an Indiegogo campaign that has amassed nearly $5 million in interest so far. The new bike, dubbed the MATE X, is a foldable e-bike that will fit in most four-seat airplanes' baggage compartments with ease. It features an extended frame and big, 4-inch, wide-rim tires for a smoother ride.

There are three versions of the MATE X, all of which contain a 48V battery along with a 250-watt motor in two versions and a 750-watt motor in the third. The bike can run in six different speed levels (or 9, with an upgrade), from zero assistance to full motor assistance, and the first two models max out at a top speed of 15.5 mph while the third can hit up to 20 mph. The basic model has a battery life of 35 miles while the other two versions have a battery life of 55 miles. Users can add hydraulic brakes for an additional $129.

The bike comes with a computer display that allows users to monitor speed, distance and battery life from the center of the handlebars. The computer unit also comes with a built-in USB charger.

The bike, including the pedals, can fold into a very tight package that is just 41 inches tall, 31 inches long and 23 inches wide.

The bike is available in a variety of bold colors.

Learn more at Indiegogo.

Aviation buffs can commemorate one of the most famous reconnaissance aircraft in history with this watch inspired by the SR-71 Blackbird, an iconic symbol of the Cold War era. The Smithsonian Reconnaissance Collectors Watch features gunmetal and silvertone IP plating, along with an adjustable C-clasp band made out of steel. The watch contains a date window with a special SR-71 cover, along with a stopwatch function and quartz movement.

The back of the watch contains a stainless steel etching of the blackbird's recognizable design, and the watch is delivered in a custom SR-71 case.

Learn more at Sporty's.

MYGOFLIGHT has branched out from its traditional realm of iPad gear and other flight accessories and into the sector of advanced tech with its introduction of a new head-up display system called SkyDisplay. SkyDisplay utilizes certified data from the airplane's instruments in order to provide key info, including indicated airspeed, pressure altitude, and attitude right within a pilot's line of sight. In addition to traditional panel data, the HUD also features a flight path marker and a flight director cue that provides pilots with vital information for hand-flown approaches.

The HUD operates automatically without the need for any pilot input. The product is currently in testing, and the first STC is planned for an Avidyne Entegra PFD with Garmin G430w nav radios and the Avidyne DFC90 autopilot.

Learn more at MYGOFLIGHT.