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?

Why Hire an Aircraft Broker?

Why Hire an Aircraft Broker?

Most aircraft owners are smart, successful professionals who pride themselves on their ability to make good financial decisions. However, most aircraft owners will only buy or sell an aircraft a few times over the course of a lifetime. Even aircraft owners who intend to change planes every few years will quickly realize that having an experienced broker on their side can make the difference between a frustrating experience or successful transaction. Aircraft brokers can assist with selling or buying planes. So why should an owner hire an aircraft broker?

10 Things to Carry in Your Aircraft That Could Save Your Trip

10 Things to Carry in Your Aircraft That Could Save Your Trip

Every so often, I find it necessary to empty my aircraft of everything in the various seat pockets, baggage areas, and stowage compartments. By the time I finish the purge, there are a few plastic storage bins filled with the stuff. Some of these items never make it back into the aircraft, but some tried and true traveling “companions” go right back where they were because they have proven their value over the years. Here is a list of things that I carry (and why), in hopes that you might find them useful, too.