Modern Aircraft Engines

Modern Aircraft Engines

Let’s look at some definitions that will help us to get an understanding of the different types of engines. When you look at the different types of engines today the designation of the engine can leave you wondering what they mean. For instance, Lycoming has a TIO-540-AJ1A engine rated at 310 BHP, and Continental has a TSIO-550-C engine, which is also rated at 310 BHP. These numbers are very different and to the manufacturer, it has a particular meaning under the Type Certificate issued by the FAA.

A Pilot’s Review of the Garmin GFC 500 Digital Autopilot

A Pilot’s Review of the Garmin GFC 500 Digital Autopilot

A pilot’s detailed review of the Garmin GFC 500 Autopilot in a Cessna 182Q. Includes discussion of LVL button and ESP Electronic Stability Protection System. The Garmin GFC 500 Digital autopilot is an adaptation of Garmin’s OEM GFC 700 that can be found in several factory aircraft applications including but not limited to the Cessna 172, 182/T, 206, and TTX…

Initial Impressions on the Embraer Phenom 300

Initial Impressions on the Embraer Phenom 300

After working on Phenom 300’s, 100’s and the ERJ135/145 (aka Legacy 600) for several years as an aircraft mechanic, I was elated to be presented with an opportunity to embark on a trans-continental journey with a longtime, family friend, and retired American Airlines 777 captain Russ. The trip was to originate out of Dallas TX, catch a flight to London England, and then get on another flight to Hamburg, Germany. The route back was dictated by weather and range limitations of the Phenom. Essentially, we would be taking the northern route to cross the Atlantic, instead of flying directly across it.

Garmin G1000 vs. Avidyne Entegra Avionics

Garmin G1000 vs. Avidyne Entegra Avionics

I often get asked about comparisons between the Garmin G1000 and Avidyne Entegra systems. Many Piper, Cirrus, and Columbia aircraft originally debuted with Avidyne glass cockpit systems before later switching exclusively to the Garmin G1000 (or Garmin Perspective as Cirrus calls it). So what’s the difference between the Garmin G1000 and the Avidyne Entegra?

Review of BrightLine Bags Flex B7 Flight Echo Bag

Review of BrightLine Bags Flex B7 Flight Echo Bag

I rarely travel anywhere without a computer bag or flight bag of some kind. There are always several gadgets, file folders, iPad, chargers and other stuff that I have been convinced I can’t live without. So when it comes to choosing a flight bag, I knew it needed to be something that would hold all my gear, withstand constant abuse, and be functional for both my general aviation and airline needs.

Lightspeed Headsets: Wired or Wireless?

Lightspeed Headsets: Wired or Wireless?

Christmas is just around the corner. Do you need an idea for the pilot or right seat partner in your life? Check out these Lightspeed headsets that offer remarkable performance and have a multitude of advanced features at a great price. Lightspeed was ranked #1 in the latest Professional Pilot Headset Preference Survey, so whether you choose the wired Zulu.2 ANR headset or the Tango® wireless headset, you can’t go wrong.