I have to admit I am a tool guy and that is really what pilot supplies are – tools to make your piloting more enjoyable. Flight Computers, kneeboards, Flash lights, and electronic flight computers are there to assist you the pilot with your cross country flight. However, pilot tools need to flow. What do I mean? Pilot tools must work together as part of your overall CRM strategy.

If you are fumbling between your charts, E6B and plotter you may need to organize your tools so they make sense of your flight. However, some of you may be thinking like why do I need an E6B dude if I have a GPS? The main purpose of the E6B is to train you think like a pilot and a GPS will display ground speed, and estimated time en route, etc, but a GPS will not think for you. This is why it is vitally important not to toss your tools in the closet after you get your certificate and pass your check ride.

Pilot proficiency is based upon solid airmanship built through continual refinement of planning and executing your flights. For example, this means being very accurate with fuel calculations based upon your pre flight planning phase. You may not realize it, but pilot in command is just that, you are the Captain.