In each issue of Plane & Pilot magazine, we share a handful of gear for pilots that we feel pilots and aviation enthusiasts would love to have.
The round-up in our July 2020 issue includes a model of a B-17G, a guide to buying your own airplane, and more items for pilots! Click through the gallery below to view all of the items.
Flight Outfitters Slimline Kneeboard
This kneeboard design from Flight Outfitters provides reliable and convenient storage for an iPad in flight, allowing pilots a secure means to use their favorite flying app in the cockpit to track their trip and airplane performance. The device is held in place by four flexible corner loops, so you can transport the iPad without removing it from the kneeboard. Dual mesh pockets are included on the side of the iPad bracket, enabling users to store a screen cleaner or other materials directly on hand.
The kneeboard allows for users to rotate between landscape and portrait mode. Using the thick elastic strip that secures the holder to the knee, the product can be used comfortably on either leg. The kneeboard comes in two sizes, large and small, and each is available for $49.95. The product comes with a drawstring bag for easy storage.
Learn more at aircraftspruce.com.
MARQ Aviator Watch
This luxury watch from Garmin provides all of the smart features users expect in a contemporary watch, packaged in a classic aesthetic thatâs made just for aviators. Encapsulated within the domed sapphire lens is a display that presents local time, GMT and time zones for two airports of the userâs choosing. A plethora of aviation tools are available at the push of a button, including direct-to emergency nav, a moving map, and NEXRAD weather, among several others. The display is always on and provides smartphone capabilities for those looking to keep in touch without whipping out their phone. Flight plans created using the Garmin pilot app sync up with the MARQ, and flight log info transfers from the watch to Garminâs online and app tools.
In addition to its aviation features, the MARQ offers wearers the ability to monitor their heart rate, hydration, stress level and other data points. The watch also includes a pulse OX sensor, so users can evaluate their oxygen levels when flying at higher altitudes. The all-metal MARQ was designed to celebrate the beauty of airplanes, with a brushed titanium bracelet and a 46 mm bezel. The watch is priced at $1,950.
Learn more at Garmin.com.
Bush Pilot Premium Crew Socks
These brightly colored socks are a fun item to wear on a backwoods flying trip or just hanging around the hangar. The socks are made of jacquard fabricâmeaning the image of a taildragger flying in the mountains was woven together as opposed to being printed onâso they wonât fade over time like other designs. On top of that, they are comfortable to boot.
The socks come in one size, and a single pair is priced at $11.95.
HangarBot Pilotâs Bundle
This package deal from HangarBot includes a handful of tools aimed at giving pilots extensive remote control over their hangars, making it easier to ensure aircraft are secure and well-maintained from afar. A central component of the bundle is a video surveillance system that provides 24/7 live streaming and captures snapshots automatically if movement is sensed.
On top of that, the bundle features a remote-controlled outlet that allows users to operate any 110-volt outlet, enabling the powering on and off of air conditioning, heaters, lights and other units. Meanwhile, a thermostat shares real-time information about the hangarâs inside temperature, giving pilots the peace of mind that conditions are appropriate for the maintenance of their airplanes. The HangarBotâs door controller allows users to operate powered doors straight from their iPhone or iPad and sends alerts when someone has entered the hangar.
The HangarBot system requires the use of an Apple device and cellular data. The entire bundle goes for $1,299.
Learn more at shop.hangarbot.com.
ASA Buying And Owning Your Own Airplane
New buyers who are in the market for their first airplane would do well to review ASAâs Buying and Owning Your Own Airplane, which provides a wealth of information on what to consider and how to avoid common pitfalls when realizing oneâs dream of aircraft ownership. In addition to providing key information about the vast number of unique models available to potential buyersâincluding everything from LSAs to complex aircraftâthis fourth edition of ASAâs buying guide also delivers critical data on all of the other facets that go along with ownership, such as insurance costs, maintenance and overhauls, just to name a few topics. The book gives readers a holistic view of ownership so that they are prepared to go into the difficult decisions of which aircraft to purchase, how to negotiate a sale, etc., with eyes wide open.
The book also takes a broader look at the general aviation industry, making predictions for what the market will look like in the long term. Written by James E. Ellis, the guide is available as an e-book on applications compatible with Adobe ID.
Learn more at aircraftspruce.com.
B-17G Flying Fortress Swamp Fire Die-Cast Model
This die-cast B-17 replica pays homage to the first heavy bomber to fly 100 missions without an abort. The airplane was flown by dozens of different crews after entering into service in 1944, and despite the replacement of many parts along the way, it gained a reputation for its reliability and endurance. The modelâs wingspan measures 17.25 inches, and overall the model is presented at a scale of 1:72 in comparison to the actual aircraft. The model features the nose art and markings, making for an accurate representation of one of most WWIIâs revered birds.
The model is available for $129.99.
Learn more at Sportys.com.
