6 Most Common Gadgets and Gears Pilots Use in the Cockpit

Whether you're an experienced pilot or a new student pilot, preparation is key to ensuring a safe and smooth flight. One of the basics for every pilot is having the right cockpit gadgets and gear when flying to ensure easy navigation and preparedness. While every pilot has personal preferences regarding what to include in their flight bag, some essentials are a must-have on any flight.

Here are six common gadgets and gear pilots use in the cockpit.

iPad

Some years back, pilots had to carry navigational charts, notebooks, logbooks, and other documents to the cockpit. Nowadays, that's not necessary as all essential info can now be stored and accessed digitally. An iPad has become a pilot's best friend - the 11'' Apple iPad Pro is recommended as it has a large screen that makes it easier to read charts.

Of course, an iPad alone is not enough. You have to download essential apps like Foreflight for charting, SkyDemon for navigation, and the Logbook Pro app for digital logbooks. You can also have an iPhone with all these apps as a backup option. Get yourself an extra accessory like an iPad Cooling Case that's designed to prevent your iPad from overheating. It will save you a lot of stress since cockpits are known to get hot.

Headsets

Pilot headsets are the primary means of communication during a flight. A well-prepared pilot always travels with their own headsets to ensure proper fit and comfort. Some of the most popular brands in the market include Kore Aviation and Rugged Air. You should get the best quality headsets and carry spare batteries in your flight bag.

These headsets come with superior features like:

• Stainless steel headband for maximum durability
• Noise-reflective caps
• Ear seals with comfortable foam
• High-performance audio speakers
• Noise-canceling feature
• 3.5 mm jack with proper conductive material

Non-Polarizing Sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses as a pilot isn't just about looking cool. It's necessary for maintaining clear visibility and reducing eye fatigue, especially during long flights. Get yourself non-polarizing sunglasses explicitly designed for aviation use. They should help reduce glare when reading instruments and using gadgets and protect your eyes against UV light.

Some of the best options in the market today include pilot sunglasses from Ray-Ban and American Origins Original, which supplies optical accessories to the U.S. government. Air Force pilots also rely on these proven aviation glasses.

Portable Battery Pack

With increasing reliance on modern devices in the cockpit, pilots must ensure that their essential gadgets have enough power to continue operating smoothly. A portable battery pack or power bank is a must-have gadget for extending your iPad's and other navigational devices' battery life. A 20,000 mAh power bank from reputable companies like RAVPower is an excellent option.

A good power bank should be waterproof and shockproof and provide a long-lasting power backup solution for your cockpit needs. You can also opt for a solar power backup option. Extra iPad accessories like a universal docking station with reliable power delivery can help you meet your charging and connectivity needs.

Kneeboard Case

Whether standard or with an iPad holder, a kneeboard is another must-have gadget for pilots in the cockpit. It's like a simple clipboard that attaches to your leg, making it easier to copy clearances or remember frequencies. While many pilots have shifted to using iPads, kneeboards with iPad holders are very popular.

They come with adjustable brackets for your tablet and a clipboard for attaching paper documents. There's also a flexible Velcro strap at the kneeboard's backside for securing the board to your thigh.

Flight Bag for Your Essentials

A flight bag carries all your daily flight essentials. It should be the perfect size to carry your iPad, documents, pens, sunglasses, and other extra gadgets and survival gear. You must also have your photo ID, pilot's license, and medical certificate, so get a small document holder for these legal documents and keep them in an easy-to-access point in your flight bag.

Other essentials you should have in your bag include:

• Compact first aid kit for emergency response
• Some snacks and a bottle of water
• Lightweight flashlight for emergency light
• Fuel tester for checking fuel quality as part of safety precautions
• Handheld two-way communication radio as a backup option

The Bottom Line

There you have it. These six everyday gadgets and gear are part of any pilot's daily flight bag packing list. And there can even be more, depending on a pilot's preference. The good thing is, modern technology has made it easier for pilots to pack lighter and still access what they need to do their jobs effectively.