Awesome delivery - for a ~20 min video with a single camera angle, this was really watchable - good job buddy. But I was disappointed you didn’t provide me a link to your cash :)
Hey @FlightChops. One of the things that went through my head while watching it: "What would FlightChops have in his bag?" One thing I'd like to see @Aviation101 tackle would be essential gear to carry in the plane for long distance trips. BUT, you might have covered that in a few of your survival test videos. Yeah, we still need that cash, buddy!
There’s one more item that can come in very handy for those longer solo flights. It can help increase range and it’s super cheap - an empty Gatorade bottle.
As a side note, on the use of a handheld, if you use headsets, make sure you can plug them into the handheld. Nothing worse than trying to hear a weak handheld signal with engine noise.
One of the other things, if you own the airplane, consider at the next annual installing an additional antenna with a coax connector in the cockpit that you can connect the radio to. That, of course, requires that the radio has an external antenna connection. But, even the radio Josh had has that connection.
Yes back in my day 1997 flying around in upstate New York or back country you do not leave behind your first aid and survival gear, if you crash and survive it made take time for help to arrive who knows how long, this is more important than others stuff that you mention, is till a good video.
Just for fun I took my flight bag out and inventoried it along with the video. I was at 100% of your list until you got to not keeping the logbook and medical in my flight bag. I 100% agree with you but had never looked at it that way until now. Thanks a bunch!
Some people have commented about keeping a digital copy as a backup. Maybe you can store the real deal at home, and still keep a digital copy on you for those "just in case" moments?
i bought a $5 battery powered led light .. looks like a wall light switch and velcroed it to my ceiling. its adjustable and ultra bright. if i cant see instruments or need to see inside.. click and it doesnt matter if my electrical system is screwed. also handy if you want to run out and work on the plane at night (mine is trailerable)
Take a picture of each page in your logbook along with the endorsements. Save the photos to the cloud. Redundancy is key. No single points of failure allowed.
Not a certified pilot (yet), but I have a question - don't you need to present your log book when you rent an airplane to prove your endorsements? This is something I was just wondering - and won't apply to anyone that owns their own plane. Will the rental provider accept an image or other digital likeness?
Nice video. I kind of understood the necessary equipment from having previously flown in the military. I gathered all the same equipment working my PPL. Now working instrument rating, so log book stays in the bag. I also log all my sorties in foreflight, so I have complete backup just in case. Your listing is spot on.
As a CFII and now as a ferry pilot with Full Throttle Aviation, I enjoyed comparing your list and recommendations which matched mine almost 100%. Great video and I have just subscribed to your channel - Thanks
Please do an in depth video on logbooks. How to log the time... paper vs electronic... share with us your favorite logbook both paper and electronic. I’m a soon to be student pilot so this info would be helpful.
Captain Joe did a video about that if u want to check it out and personally I use a paper logbook and a cloud logbook app so I know my info is safe at all time
I keep anti nausea bracelets in my bag for passengers. Wife loves it and has helped new fliers on multiple occasions. Also a bottle of water and some peanuts for unexpected delays.
Quick tip about using your notepad on your kneeboard: turn the notepad UPSIDE DOWN (binding at the bottom)! The kneeboard clip will keep the loose page-ends from flapping around, and it's much easier to turn a page, etc., while in flight. You won't need that little extra binder clip, which can drop under a seat (or into the trim wheel housing -- yikes).
Top tip, thanks! I noticed that the clip doesn't always hold the pad in place very well, especially when the pad gets thinner. I put a square of adhesive rubber on the kneeboard under the pad, that keeps it from slipping. The kneepad was the first thing I bought when I started on my PPL (along with a headset), though I went for a small (A6) size.
I've found a vest to be more practical. Anything you need is accessible, always in the exact same spot and not in the bottom of the backpack hard to find hiding under everything else. Leave the vest in the backpack or hang over the other seat for casual flying but at night or cross country flights wear it.
Interesting point about the logbook. Where I fly it is actually mandatory to have your logbook with you when you fly. In order for a flight to be valid, the log entry must be signed by an airport authority or the flight instructor(if it was an instruction flight). Also, we need to do a flight hours validation process with the aviation authority whenever we want to get a new license or endorsement. This process requires us(among other really annoying stuff) to deliver photocopies of every logbook page, so I've developed a habit of scanning a every sheet once I've filled them up. That way I also have a digital backup of my logbook.
Awesome video and great advice! I love this type of talking to the audience video, we get to see a bit more of your personality and style than we do in the plane. I hope you do more of these!
Great presentation, thank you. I’ve been flying for over 40 years so I’ve learnt a few things in that time. Additional to all the great things you have said I always carry a spare pair of socks, jocks and a clean T-shirt in my flight bag, you never know when you will get stuck overnight somewhere. Also with all the aircraft that I regularly fly I actually keep a photo copy of my licence and current medical certificate in the back of the POH of each aircraft I fly. That way when I get ramp checked or random breath tested it’s always right there with me. I also carry with me a small multi tool like a leatherman or such. They come in real handy sometimes. Another handy accessory is a spare PTT/headset jack. I’ve had them fail before and this does get you out of trouble inflight. Just a tip with logbooks (and you’re quite right, never have it in the plane with you) I’m on my 4th one now and some time ago I went to a lot of trouble to put together a digital backup in case (God forbid) it ever gets lost or destroyed. It took me a long time but it’s definitely worth the piece of mind. Thanks again for the effort you put into your video.
Logbook nightmare: As a student pilot my car was broken into and my flight bag was stolen. I know the feeling and excellent advice about putting your logs into a fireproof safe. Thank you!
I initially adopted the binder clip method on my kneeboard, but I didn't like how much it scratched up the board. Now I just flip the notepad upside down and let the board's clip hold the paper down.
I have a flashlight (need it for preflight anyway), but I also always have an inexpensive headlamp in my bag. In my case it’s a Coast lamp with both a zoom-able/adjustable intensity white beam AND a separate red night-vision LED. Perfect for flying.
Great video Josh. I finally got away from the hand held flashlight and got a good quality head band style. The hand helds are never where you need them to be, no more having to hold the flashlight with your mouth because you need both hands. In my opinion, a much better option. Keep up the good work!
@Stan Nance I was thinking about the undesirable aspect of a handheld flashlight, especially while in flight and if you've got a heavy workload going. I just wasn't sure if a headband equivalent existed, in particular with the red light feature to avoid dilating pupils. Does your headband flashlight have that? Would you consider posting the details about it, perhaps a link? Thanks!
I agree with the comment about anti nausea bracelets or medicine, but would also add to keep a few sick sacks in there as well. Don't really want passenger vomit all over the place. (Or mine or anyone's for that matter)
Brilliant ! Nobody thinks to ask and few will volunteer this sort of info . When I was young and a flying fanatic , I subscribed to every aviation magazine I could afford . Back then issues like this were covered often in the helpful hints articles . But , sadly, today it is too trivial to mention . Bravo !
Add backup flashlights and/or batteries for your lights. And extra batteries for the handheld radio. When you have an electrical failure in IMC, it will be at night. And you'll drop your flashlight and it'll roll to the back of the cockpit and wedge behind the back seat. And the handheld radio will have been bumped while it was in your bag and powered on so that the battery is now dead. :)
For night flying a carry a small red/white LED flashlight, on a lanyard, around my neck. Can't lose it that way. If I need a light while flying it's right there. No looking for it. Even have a rubber "bite" grip on the end so I can hold the light in my mouth and free both hands.
I wanted to share some exciting news with you Josh! My childhood dream of taking flying lessons is coming true tomorrow! I'm taking lessons in Loveland Colorado at Northern Colorado Reg. Airport with Leading Edge Flight Training and I'm just "plane" giddy with excitement! I'm working in Colorado at the present time and made the decision to begin this amazing journey! This info video came out right in the nick of time for me. Thanks. Very good point on the log book. My Journey begins at 11am MT time. Best regards, Christopher
Excellent video. I just purchased a plane in Nebraska and flew it back to my home base in SoCal. I essentially had everything you just described in your video with the addition of three items. The first is a good jacket in case of an off airport landing where you might have to stay the night in inclimate weather. That of course depends on where you are flying and what time of year. Second is take a bottle or two of water. Do not get dehydrated on those long flights. Force yourself to take a drink every now and then. Last, take some sort of a snack, beef jerky is good, it lasts forever in those sealed packages, maybe a piece of fruit, trail mix. I know these mainly relate to cross country flying, longer trips, not the hamburger run, but I do highly recommend the water always.
Tire gauge? So you weren't a "kick tires, light fires" kind of pilot? 😁 😷 Seriously, I haven't flown in decades, but I never remember checking tire pressure (except visually), nor do I remember it even being suggested. But it sure sounds like a good idea.
Nice video I’m doing a career change and will be in a pilot program in central Texas. Been a truck driver for the last 7 years and will be going to a part 141 under my gi bill keep up the good work these vids are pretty informal for me and others looking to fly.
I enjoy your videos Josh. I have 100% of my log book on Four Flight. I keep medical, insurance, copy of licenses..... all in the cloud. Can’t be lost or stolen (maybe hacked?) and available on any device.
I found this video very important (especially for new pilots) I wish when i was a student someone of gave a me list of what i should get. awesome video
Excellent video. You are getting better and better in your editing, Camera placement, delivery, everything. I would say you, Steveo, FlightChops, and some others I can't think of right now are very very good. This video is very informative. The in-flight sound is very important also, as is camera placement. Showing shots of the instrument panel from time to time is a nice touch. Do more of these....very nice.
How do you position your iPad? I assume you use a yoke or window mount if you are using your kneeboard for writing. Also, when putting the flight bag in the back seat, put it behind the passenger seat so you can reach it. If it is behind the pilot seat it is much harder to access
Really enjoyed video as a professional pilot but also a cub and 182 owner i agree with just about everything, I don’t carry a wallet but a clip just like you had on pad for money and credit cards.I don’t carry my medical or license with me but keep it in my flight bag with one passport and my other passport in my uniform, if that rare occasion comes up to fly just order a temp online and go fly, great presentation
Just started watch these videos. Many are nostalgic for me as I went to Southwest Texas State and flew out of Mueller airport. Gary was a favorite lunchtime destination to hit Fushak's for BBQ. Not as good as Luling or Kruez's Markets but easier to get to from the local FBO. I've found a vest to be more practical. Anything you need is accessible, always in the exact same spot and not in the bottom of the backpack hard to find hiding under everything else. Leave the vest in the backpack or hang over the other seat for casual flying but at night or cross country flights wear it. Rubber band, bungee, or whatever around the whole knee board, holds the pencil also which is tethered with a piece of string. Lost a dozen pencils out the door of the Huey before I finally caught on. Ziplocks work great for air sickness and one with a sponge works for spills and to relieve yourself. Better than the Gatorade bottle of wee rolling around the cockpit.
Hey Josh, On my knee board (lift Aviation) I just turn the table 180*. No need for the bindery clip. I really appreciate your perspective and commentary on your passion of flight.
Rubber band, bungee, or whatever around the whole knee board, holds the pencil also which is tethered with a piece of string. Lost a dozen pencils out the door of the Huey before I finally caught on.
For the logbook that’s great advice! One thing I do is have my hard copy logbook and then an electronic version as well. That way I have 2 copies of my logbook
One negative to keeping your pilots logbook at home is... if you do indeed have an aircraft accident? the surviving passengers or relatives to those passengers could use your logbook to sue you and all of your flight instructors. So, you might not want your heirs to produce the pilots logbook(s)... without a court order... just pointing out the negative side of passengers... additionally, consider bringing a survival bag on your back seat...
Hi Josh, Brian from Canada here. I agree with all you've said, but I would add a portable Carbon Monoxide monitor. I use mine every day for work. Works great for flying too. Mine is an MSA Altair 4X it also measures Oxygen
Been watching your channel for years but finally saved up enough to start training next week. Coincidentally been wondering what I needed to have with me especially when starting to solo, so this video was great. Thanks Josh!
I would like to see a video on how you structure your flight lesson plans. Specifically, to most efficiently and thoroughly complete the requirements for a ppl certificate candidate. Thanks for everything, Josh!
Josh, when are you going to offer the Aviation 101 Productions 4 inch circular patch? I'd LOVE to purchase a few of those. Great video as always. The only item I don't currently have from your list is the Anker USB charger and that is because they are STILL out of them. Frustrating to no end. But it is on my watch list, so I'll get it as soon as it is in stock again. Happy SAFE flights my friend. Brian
I am super redundant with my nav and comm, it gives me peace of mind. I have a Garmin GNS 50 w/ adsb in to an ipad mini, a backup Samsung Tab, a second backup my Samsung Note phablet, paper sectionals, a Yaesu 750L NAV/Com/GPS, a Garmin InReach mini personal locator GPS w/ emergency SOS service within reach. I love the binder clip suggestion!
When I'm flying a twin, I usually pack a small size A&P Mechanic. I cannot tell you how many times he's had to go out on the wing (ala World War 1 style) to check oil, replace a magneto in flight, etc. I'm not providing a link. He's on my payroll, subject to my command, and I don't share.
Had to read twice to see it was humor 😆, almost started a Google search for “A&P Mechanic.” Now can’t get that twilight episode with William Shatner and that gremlin in the airplane ✈️ wing out of my head. Thanks 👍🏾
Hey man nay helo guy here. For Your tip with the little binder clip to keep the paper from flying. Someone showed me that whats better is to flip the pad in the clipboard so the free end of the paper is under the clip of the clipboard and the solid binding is down. BOOM no need for the little clip (less FOD hazard in my job).
Yaesu .. Yes 5w output but probably the Best Handheld Radio you can choose .. over the yrs I've had a lot of different radios and this one is my favorite. It's lightweight/rugged and easy to use/prog.. The Best 200 bucks ive ever spent on a absolute necessity for my flight bag... Also.... on a personal note I am and forever will be a Huge fan of yours... I just Love Flying with you ! Awesome Videos.... See ya....
Thanks a lot Josh. When I would of finished my lessons and became a pilot, I would need this. Number 1, I'd probably take my log book along but now I know to leave it at home or somewhere safe. You really give a lot of detail with your explorations and that has taught me so much about aviation.
Ok, great topic, great list. Excellent advice, only one thing missing... an emergency knife! I carry a "wartech" emergency lockblade (has the seatbelt cutter w/glass breaker).
Good upload with stacks of good ideas. Building on the point raised by Timothy Krahmer , one additional issue I would like to raise is the effectiveness of a handheld radio in the cockpit and my comments assume that you need to use a handheld with a headset.. Not sure about the Yaesu radio but certainly it is true of the ICOM transceivers, unless you use a proprietary plug in push to talk switch the internal microphone picks up all of the cabin noise, which in many circumstances means that the you will not hear the pilot. The plug in push to talk switch disables the onboard microphone meaning that you can use the headset in the normal way. Additional if you use the handheld, ensure that the radio and hence the antenna are held vertically. That way you will get the best overall coverage.
I carry most of the items in the video, along with red light sticks, first aid kit, and survival kit. Flying around here in south Louisiana especially at night these items are essential.
Good video, thanks! On the logbook point - for anything that you want a permanent record of, such as your logbook, you should _always_ take pictures of the pages and save them somewhere. Preferably in the cloud. If you have an Android phone it happens automatically with Photos, and you can do the same with an iPhone. A rule to live by is never have only one copy of something irreplaceable, especially in this day and age.
Great stuff, Josh. If you use a second iPad, be sure to power it up before the trip, charge it to full and make sure all software and charts are updated.
great list Josh.....rather then mentioning a flightbag to hold everthing, you referred to your backpack.....any suggestions on a backpack that you find preferable for the cockpit environment?
Thanks Josh great info. I'm just learning, but I'll only be flying Sim. I'm 72 and I've always wanted to really fly, but can't now because of health reasons, so Sim will have to do and I have a great imagination lol. I watch your vids, you talk a little fast for me, but I'm starting to learn more and now I can understand you more. Just like playing ball, the speed finally starts slowing down. Again, thanks a million, oh BTW, I won't be stealing any of your credit cards!!
Great tips Josh, most important to have all those things near you, in the back seat but never in the cargo compartment. My hand held have save me so many times wjajaja even here in Chile that we have a lot of mountains it works perfectly ! Thanks for this good reviewing. Saludos.
I've got all of these things in my flight bag (except logbook). Even have the same external battery. But two additional suggestions: 1) I use a headlamp instead of handheld flashlight; 2) I've got pics of my endorsements/medical on my iPhone, as well as paper copies folded up and stored in my flight bag. Agree about paper maps and charts. Paper does't run out of batteries or freeze up. In fact, for ALL IFR flights I have a small ASA binder where I print up ALL approach plates, ODPs, and SIDs for the departure airport, destination airport, and alternative. In fact, my last flight in actual I expected the ILS but was assigned a VOR-A (Bracket Field). I was in actual at the time and my iPad froze up. I grabbed my binder, pulled out the VOR-A and briefed it, no big deal.
Tons of useful and important info in a short time frame. Great advice derived from experience. Two thumbs up Josh, preparation, thinking ahead....you nailed it all !
May I suggest a pocket first aid kit too ? Mine is just a clear pencil case with a few plasters, headache tablets, hand sanitiser, a pocket pack of tissues & few gauzes with pair of tweezers too. Enough for bumps & scrapes or a blister or 2
Bulldog clip on the steno pad...yup, been doing that since the start of training! One suggestion...since a pulse oximeter is on your list - handheld cans of O2. At 9,500 MSL last year, I was at 92% on the meter. Two short hits from a handheld bottle and I was back at my normal 98%. Very effective, tho not the same as built-in O2.
I use to backup all my entries in the logbook with an online app. There's plenty of apps out there, I've tried MyFlightbook and is good enogh. Another mean of backing up that info is just to take a photo with the smartphone, i.e. once you finish a page. Good video, I'm glad only a couple items were not in my flight bag, the ones I've not purchased yet.
Great video, I use the same flash light too. I modified mine and put a small eye bolt in the end of the flashlight. I cut off the excess off so it would not hit the negative terminal on the battery and clip it to a lanyard so this way I can put around my neck and wont drop it and then can not find it.
Depending on stick vs. yoke and the type of harness it also might be a good idea to turn a slim backpack around and wear it on your chest, with all the essential stuff in it in order to make sure you have it in case you have to leave the plane in a hurry after a crash. If you crash in an unpopulated or remote area (mountains, forest..), e.g. not leaving the phone inside the airplane can be crucial in order to call for help. If you crash at night (or before sunset) or in questionable weather, you might have to spend a night in cold and ugly weather before rescue teams are able to get to you the next day. I therefore would also carry a light&compact rain coat and some basic emergency equipment in that flightbag, like e.g. an emergency blanket, some basic first aid medical stuff, a lighter... A fuel drain cup and a tank dip-stick probably are also in most flightbags. _On a sidenote about the paper charts_ : I agree that they are great for students but electronic charts have the great advantage that they show the position on a moving map, including terrain and airspace warnings. I wonder how many airspace conflicts happend only because of old-school paper charts and whiskey compass ...
I've always wondered, why not invert your kneeboard so the clip at the top is now your clip at the bottom and holds your pad papers from flapping around in the wind? The pad itself is already bound on the top end, and it saves you from having to get/lose/find a separate paper clip.
Chris P I feel like the clip would irritate my wrist like that. My wrist rests and slides across the bottom as I write. I usually put a tiny binder clip at the very bottom.
You mentioned that if you wear contacts you need to carry a pair of glasses as a backup, is the same also true for people that wear glasses as well, that you need to carry a backup pair?
Another tip is take a photo on your cell phone of everything as a backup. This includes photo ID, license, med certificate, endorsements, any prescription meds you take, etc. The phones can hold heaps of photos. I do it with my drivers license, health care cards, workplace certificates, etc.
Logbook question: digital logbooks!.What is your take on e-log books? Garmin has one built-in to Garmin Pilot. This gives you easy access to logging from anywhere AND if you crash it is backed up online so anyone can get it later. There are many stand-alone commercial ones as well.
Like a lot of the other people I never thought about not caring my log book but certainly does make sense. My question would be what do you do to keep track of your time? Do you use an electronic one and transfer it over?
Small tip about the logbook: a lot of aircraft owners keep their airplane logs in a digital format as well as a hardcopy format. Outside of a crash, there is nothing that will devalue an airplane faster than missing logbooks. It is easy enough to scan your logs into a digital PDF format that you can keep on your computer or in the cloud. The same is true for your pilot logbooks. If you have access to a scanner, definitely make digital copies of all your credentials and records.
Awesome delivery - for a ~20 min video with a single camera angle, this was really watchable - good job buddy. But I was disappointed you didn’t provide me a link to your cash :)
Thanks Steve! I can provide directions to your nearest ATM if you'd like? :D
Aviation101 that gave me a good laugh
You are just hoping that when you toss Josh a Loony that he gives you a dollar back so that you make 30¢ on the transaction! :D
Friggin flightchops.... Dude is gonna rob you blind!! Lol I'm just messing around. Both you guys are awesome! Keep up the great work!!
Hey @FlightChops. One of the things that went through my head while watching it: "What would FlightChops have in his bag?" One thing I'd like to see @Aviation101 tackle would be essential gear to carry in the plane for long distance trips. BUT, you might have covered that in a few of your survival test videos.
Yeah, we still need that cash, buddy!
There’s one more item that can come in very handy for those longer solo flights. It can help increase range and it’s super cheap - an empty Gatorade bottle.
this tip was recomended to me by my airline pilot brother, has saved me many times
Agreed. It's really hard to go out the little window in the door.
I use the Truckers Urinal on long X-COUNTRY trips. It works great. Just strap the bag to your leg 🦵 and condom with tubing to bag. And Go for it!!!!!
As a side note, on the use of a handheld, if you use headsets, make sure you can plug them into the handheld. Nothing worse than trying to hear a weak handheld signal with engine noise.
One of the other things, if you own the airplane, consider at the next annual installing an additional antenna with a coax connector in the cockpit that you can connect the radio to. That, of course, requires that the radio has an external antenna connection. But, even the radio Josh had has that connection.
Yes back in my day 1997 flying around in upstate New York or back country you do not leave behind your first aid and survival gear, if you crash and survive it made take time for help to arrive who knows how long, this is more important than others stuff that you mention, is till a good video.
"Two is One, & One is None".
A lesson learned as a Soldier and Firefighter.
the people that don't understand this amaze me
Just for fun I took my flight bag out and inventoried it along with the video. I was at 100% of your list until you got to not keeping the logbook and medical in my flight bag. I 100% agree with you but had never looked at it that way until now. Thanks a bunch!
Some people have commented about keeping a digital copy as a backup. Maybe you can store the real deal at home, and still keep a digital copy on you for those "just in case" moments?
Yeah... Foreflight has a logbook option. I could scan the logbook into a PDF and store it in the cloud (Dropbox) or maybe on one of the iPad's
In addition to a flashlight, I keep a headband light that shines white or red light. It came in very handy when I had an alternator failure at night.
i bought a $5 battery powered led light .. looks like a wall light switch and velcroed it to my ceiling. its adjustable and ultra bright. if i cant see instruments or need to see inside.. click and it doesnt matter if my electrical system is screwed. also handy if you want to run out and work on the plane at night (mine is trailerable)
@Larry Brock Details on your headband light? Link? Thanks!
@@cdreid9999 Details on your wall (red) light? Link? Thanks!
Take a picture of each page in your logbook along with the endorsements. Save the photos to the cloud. Redundancy is key. No single points of failure allowed.
James Conner I flew airliners ( as a F.A) for a while and a lot of pilots do that, indeed a good tip!
I use a paper logbook and a digital cloud log book app so I know if something happens to one of them, I'll still have the other
Yes, and maybe keep copies on a thumb drive (or 3!).
@@ChaplainDaveSparks If the cloud fails we've got bigger problems than logbooks.
Not a certified pilot (yet), but I have a question - don't you need to present your log book when you rent an airplane to prove your endorsements? This is something I was just wondering - and won't apply to anyone that owns their own plane. Will the rental provider accept an image or other digital likeness?
The not keeping the logbook in the bag part is priceless! Never even thought about leaving it at home before!
Nice video. I kind of understood the necessary equipment from having previously flown in the military. I gathered all the same equipment working my PPL. Now working instrument rating, so log book stays in the bag. I also log all my sorties in foreflight, so I have complete backup just in case. Your listing is spot on.
As a CFII and now as a ferry pilot with Full Throttle Aviation, I enjoyed comparing your list and recommendations which matched mine almost 100%. Great video and I have just subscribed to your channel - Thanks
Please do an in depth video on logbooks. How to log the time... paper vs electronic... share with us your favorite logbook both paper and electronic. I’m a soon to be student pilot so this info would be helpful.
how did you get verified with 13 subs?
Captain Joe did a video about that if u want to check it out and personally I use a paper logbook and a cloud logbook app so I know my info is safe at all time
I keep anti nausea bracelets in my bag for passengers. Wife loves it and has helped new fliers on multiple occasions. Also a bottle of water and some peanuts for unexpected delays.
I always keep a couple of bottles of water and granola bars, etc. in my backpack.
Quick tip about using your notepad on your kneeboard: turn the notepad UPSIDE DOWN (binding at the bottom)! The kneeboard clip will keep the loose page-ends from flapping around, and it's much easier to turn a page, etc., while in flight. You won't need that little extra binder clip, which can drop under a seat (or into the trim wheel housing -- yikes).
Also, the faint red line on the right makes a good border for writing frequencies to the right.
Top tip, thanks!
I noticed that the clip doesn't always hold the pad in place very well, especially when the pad gets thinner. I put a square of adhesive rubber on the kneeboard under the pad, that keeps it from slipping.
The kneepad was the first thing I bought when I started on my PPL (along with a headset), though I went for a small (A6) size.
Nice video Josh. What about Flight Bags themselves?
I've found a vest to be more practical. Anything you need is accessible, always in the exact same spot and not in the bottom of the backpack hard to find hiding under everything else. Leave the vest in the backpack or hang over the other seat for casual flying but at night or cross country flights wear it.
@@pearlyamamoto8351 There's a good argument for that.
I like that idea. Personally converting from military to civilian I miss all the pockets and pen holders of a flightsuit
I agree with you about night flying. I LOVED to fly at night. It was so peaceful.
Interesting point about the logbook. Where I fly it is actually mandatory to have your logbook with you when you fly. In order for a flight to be valid, the log entry must be signed by an airport authority or the flight instructor(if it was an instruction flight). Also, we need to do a flight hours validation process with the aviation authority whenever we want to get a new license or endorsement. This process requires us(among other really annoying stuff) to deliver photocopies of every logbook page, so I've developed a habit of scanning a every sheet once I've filled them up. That way I also have a digital backup of my logbook.
Awesome video and great advice! I love this type of talking to the audience video, we get to see a bit more of your personality and style than we do in the plane. I hope you do more of these!
Since I have a ham radio license I also kept a ham radio in my bag. It was also CAP modified but I was in Civil Air Patrol at the time.
Great presentation, thank you. I’ve been flying for over 40 years so I’ve learnt a few things in that time. Additional to all the great things you have said I always carry a spare pair of socks, jocks and a clean T-shirt in my flight bag, you never know when you will get stuck overnight somewhere. Also with all the aircraft that I regularly fly I actually keep a photo copy of my licence and current medical certificate in the back of the POH of each aircraft I fly. That way when I get ramp checked or random breath tested it’s always right there with me. I also carry with me a small multi tool like a leatherman or such. They come in real handy sometimes. Another handy accessory is a spare PTT/headset jack. I’ve had them fail before and this does get you out of trouble inflight. Just a tip with logbooks (and you’re quite right, never have it in the plane with you) I’m on my 4th one now and some time ago I went to a lot of trouble to put together a digital backup in case (God forbid) it ever gets lost or destroyed. It took me a long time but it’s definitely worth the piece of mind. Thanks again for the effort you put into your video.
So many helpful tips
Logbook nightmare: As a student pilot my car was broken into and my flight bag was stolen. I know the feeling and excellent advice about putting your logs into a fireproof safe. Thank you!
I initially adopted the binder clip method on my kneeboard, but I didn't like how much it scratched up the board. Now I just flip the notepad upside down and let the board's clip hold the paper down.
I have a flashlight (need it for preflight anyway), but I also always have an inexpensive headlamp in my bag. In my case it’s a Coast lamp with both a zoom-able/adjustable intensity white beam AND a separate red night-vision LED. Perfect for flying.
Great video Josh. I finally got away from the hand held flashlight and got a good quality head band style. The hand helds are never where you need them to be, no more having to hold the flashlight with your mouth because you need both hands. In my opinion, a much better option. Keep up the good work!
@Stan Nance I was thinking about the undesirable aspect of a handheld flashlight, especially while in flight and if you've got a heavy workload going. I just wasn't sure if a headband equivalent existed, in particular with the red light feature to avoid dilating pupils. Does your headband flashlight have that? Would you consider posting the details about it, perhaps a link? Thanks!
@@Zelig2Cents Many headlamps do have a select-able pure red option, and even dimming. Black Diamond makes some.
@@youngskyculler Thanks for that lead!
I agree with the comment about anti nausea bracelets or medicine, but would also add to keep a few sick sacks in there as well. Don't really want passenger vomit all over the place. (Or mine or anyone's for that matter)
If you own the airplane,keep Sick Sacks in the seat backs.
Brilliant ! Nobody thinks to ask and few will volunteer this sort of info . When I was young and a flying fanatic , I subscribed to every aviation magazine I could afford . Back then issues like this were covered often in the helpful hints articles . But , sadly, today it is too trivial to mention . Bravo !
AMEN!!!!!
Add backup flashlights and/or batteries for your lights. And extra batteries for the handheld radio.
When you have an electrical failure in IMC, it will be at night. And you'll drop your flashlight and it'll roll to the back of the cockpit and wedge behind the back seat. And the handheld radio will have been bumped while it was in your bag and powered on so that the battery is now dead. :)
In-dash com radios are limited to 5 watts. Handhelds usually less than 1 watt. The Yaesu 230 is 700 mw, which is common with others as well.
For night flying a carry a small red/white LED flashlight, on a lanyard, around my neck. Can't lose it that way. If I need a light while flying it's right there. No looking for it. Even have a rubber "bite" grip
on the end so I can hold the light in my mouth and free both hands.
I also keep a PLB in my bag because the old ELT's are not monitored anymore except by the airlines.
I wanted to share some exciting news with you Josh! My childhood dream of taking flying lessons is coming true tomorrow! I'm taking lessons in Loveland Colorado at Northern Colorado Reg. Airport with Leading Edge Flight Training and I'm just "plane" giddy with excitement! I'm working in Colorado at the present time and made the decision to begin this amazing journey! This info video came out right in the nick of time for me. Thanks. Very good point on the log book. My Journey begins at 11am MT time. Best regards, Christopher
Good job Chris!!!
Excellent video. I just purchased a plane in Nebraska and flew it back to my home base in SoCal. I essentially had everything you just described in your video with the addition of three items. The first is a good jacket in case of an off airport landing where you might have to stay the night in inclimate weather. That of course depends on where you are flying and what time of year. Second is take a bottle or two of water. Do not get dehydrated on those long flights. Force yourself to take a drink every now and then. Last, take some sort of a snack, beef jerky is good, it lasts forever in those sealed packages, maybe a piece of fruit, trail mix. I know these mainly relate to cross country flying, longer trips, not the hamburger run, but I do highly recommend the water always.
Best youtuber ever, if you are a student pilot, or a kid wanting to become a pilot.
good call with the oxymeter, but don't forget a tire pressure gauge 👌
Tire gauge? So you weren't a "kick tires, light fires" kind of pilot? 😁 😷
Seriously, I haven't flown in decades, but I never remember checking tire pressure (except visually), nor do I remember it even being suggested. But it sure sounds like a good idea.
Nice video I’m doing a career change and will be in a pilot program in central Texas. Been a truck driver for the last 7 years and will be going to a part 141 under my gi bill keep up the good work these vids are pretty informal for me and others looking to fly.
By far one off the best content yet important I’ve seen I’ll take notes and save this video just in case thnx for sharing this
Well done. An updated flight bag vid is highly appreciated.
É aqui está um assinante do Brasil, parabéns pelo seu conteúdo! SENSACIONAL !
I enjoy your videos Josh. I have 100% of my log book on Four Flight. I keep medical, insurance, copy of licenses..... all in the cloud. Can’t be lost or stolen (maybe hacked?) and available on any device.
Derek Johnson I always think to have electronic copy of documents,but I always worry about “hacked”, I use last pass app for this
I found this video very important (especially for new pilots) I wish when i was a student someone of gave a me list of what i should get. awesome video
Excellent video. You are getting better and better in your editing, Camera placement, delivery, everything. I would say you, Steveo, FlightChops, and some others I can't think of
right now are very very good. This video is very informative. The in-flight sound is very important also, as is camera placement. Showing shots of the instrument panel from time
to time is a nice touch. Do more of these....very nice.
How do you position your iPad? I assume you use a yoke or window mount if you are using your kneeboard for writing. Also, when putting the flight bag in the back seat, put it behind the passenger seat so you can reach it. If it is behind the pilot seat it is much harder to access
Thanks Josh I listened to you everyday
Really enjoyed video as a professional pilot but also a cub and 182 owner i agree with just about everything, I don’t carry a wallet but a clip just like you had on pad for money and credit cards.I don’t carry my medical or license with me but keep it in my flight bag with one passport and my other passport in my uniform, if that rare occasion comes up to fly just order a temp online and go fly, great presentation
Just started watch these videos. Many are nostalgic for me as I went to Southwest Texas State and flew out of Mueller airport. Gary was a favorite lunchtime destination to hit Fushak's for BBQ. Not as good as Luling or Kruez's Markets but easier to get to from the local FBO.
I've found a vest to be more practical. Anything you need is accessible, always in the exact same spot and not in the bottom of the backpack hard to find hiding under everything else. Leave the vest in the backpack or hang over the other seat for casual flying but at night or cross country flights wear it.
Rubber band, bungee, or whatever around the whole knee board, holds the pencil also which is tethered with a piece of string. Lost a dozen pencils out the door of the Huey before I finally caught on.
Ziplocks work great for air sickness and one with a sponge works for spills and to relieve yourself. Better than the Gatorade bottle of wee rolling around the cockpit.
Thanks for the “Do/Don’t” on the logbook! Been carrying mine around in my flight Bag! Will get locked up from now on.
I use ForeFlight for electronic logbook, redundancy !
Hey Josh, On my knee board (lift Aviation) I just turn the table 180*. No need for the bindery clip. I really appreciate your perspective and commentary on your passion of flight.
Rubber band, bungee, or whatever around the whole knee board, holds the pencil also which is tethered with a piece of string. Lost a dozen pencils out the door of the Huey before I finally caught on.
For the logbook that’s great advice! One thing I do is have my hard copy logbook and then an electronic version as well. That way I have 2 copies of my logbook
One negative to keeping your pilots logbook at home is... if you do indeed have an aircraft accident? the surviving passengers or relatives to those passengers could use your logbook to sue you and all of your flight instructors. So, you might not want your heirs to produce the pilots logbook(s)... without a court order... just pointing out the negative side of passengers... additionally, consider bringing a survival bag on your back seat...
@@visarma9673I can see this theoretical doomsday scenario actually happening, but has it actually happened though?
Hi Josh, Brian from Canada here. I agree with all you've said, but I would add a portable Carbon Monoxide monitor. I use mine every day for work. Works great for flying too. Mine is an MSA Altair 4X it also measures Oxygen
$12 @ www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/pspages/llifecodetectors.php
Been watching your channel for years but finally saved up enough to start training next week. Coincidentally been wondering what I needed to have with me especially when starting to solo, so this video was great. Thanks Josh!
wow, I was thinking about the same type of video. Glad you beat me to it because this one is much better. Thanks so much for this.
I would like to see a video on how you structure your flight lesson plans. Specifically, to most efficiently and thoroughly complete the requirements for a ppl certificate candidate. Thanks for everything, Josh!
Josh, when are you going to offer the Aviation 101 Productions 4 inch circular patch? I'd LOVE to purchase a few of those. Great video as always. The only item I don't currently have from your list is the Anker USB charger and that is because they are STILL out of them. Frustrating to no end. But it is on my watch list, so I'll get it as soon as it is in stock again. Happy SAFE flights my friend. Brian
I am super redundant with my nav and comm, it gives me peace of mind. I have a Garmin GNS 50 w/ adsb in to an ipad mini, a backup Samsung Tab, a second backup my Samsung Note phablet, paper sectionals, a Yaesu 750L NAV/Com/GPS, a Garmin InReach mini personal locator GPS w/ emergency SOS service within reach. I love the binder clip suggestion!
I absolutely love your videos and I'm sure lots of others do too, so thank you for all of the hard work you do to entertain us.
When I'm flying a twin, I usually pack a small size A&P Mechanic. I cannot tell you how many times he's had to go out on the wing (ala World War 1 style) to check oil, replace a magneto in flight, etc. I'm not providing a link. He's on my payroll, subject to my command, and I don't share.
Had to read twice to see it was humor 😆, almost started a Google search for “A&P Mechanic.” Now can’t get that twilight episode with William Shatner and that gremlin in the airplane ✈️ wing out of my head. Thanks 👍🏾
I almost fell out of my chair laughing.....hahaha
@@garlandxx3400 "There's something on the wing.........some.....thing!"
Hey man nay helo guy here. For Your tip with the little binder clip to keep the paper from flying.
Someone showed me that whats better is to flip the pad in the clipboard so the free end of the paper is under the clip of the clipboard and the solid binding is down. BOOM no need for the little clip (less FOD hazard in my job).
There is some gold in this video. Thank you for the great insight.
Yaesu ..
Yes 5w output but probably the Best Handheld Radio you can choose .. over the yrs I've had a lot of different radios and this one is my favorite. It's lightweight/rugged and easy to use/prog..
The Best 200 bucks ive ever spent on a absolute necessity for my flight bag...
Also.... on a personal note I am and forever will be a Huge fan of yours... I just Love Flying with you !
Awesome Videos....
See ya....
Glad you went over what not to carry. Great info!
Thank you Josh. Learning a lot from your videos. What about a video to teach us where to mount cameras and how to process the shots?
Love the idea for the binder clip
Thanks a lot Josh. When I would of finished my lessons and became a pilot, I would need this. Number 1, I'd probably take my log book along but now I know to leave it at home or somewhere safe. You really give a lot of detail with your explorations and that has taught me so much about aviation.
Ok, great topic, great list. Excellent advice, only one thing missing... an emergency knife! I carry a "wartech" emergency lockblade (has the seatbelt cutter w/glass breaker).
Good upload with stacks of good ideas. Building on the point raised by Timothy Krahmer , one additional issue I would like to raise is the effectiveness of a handheld radio in the cockpit and my comments assume that you need to use a handheld with a headset.. Not sure about the Yaesu radio but certainly it is true of the ICOM transceivers, unless you use a proprietary plug in push to talk switch the internal microphone picks up all of the cabin noise, which in many circumstances means that the you will not hear the pilot. The plug in push to talk switch disables the onboard microphone meaning that you can use the headset in the normal way. Additional if you use the handheld, ensure that the radio and hence the antenna are held vertically. That way you will get the best overall coverage.
Great job Josh. How about adding a carbon monoxide alarm.
That should be a permanent item in your plane.
I carry most of the items in the video, along with red light sticks, first aid kit, and survival kit. Flying around here in south Louisiana especially at night these items are essential.
Good video, thanks! On the logbook point - for anything that you want a permanent record of, such as your logbook, you should _always_ take pictures of the pages and save them somewhere. Preferably in the cloud. If you have an Android phone it happens automatically with Photos, and you can do the same with an iPhone. A rule to live by is never have only one copy of something irreplaceable, especially in this day and age.
Thanks for all your videos and information Josh, coming from one of the 50 and learning people.
Great stuff, Josh.
If you use a second iPad, be sure to power it up before the trip, charge it to full and make sure all software and charts are updated.
Having an e6b is also advisable just for the same reasons for the paper charts.
great list Josh.....rather then mentioning a flightbag to hold everthing, you referred to your backpack.....any suggestions on a backpack that you find preferable for the cockpit environment?
Michael Azzollini any HighSierra Backpack is great. Flight Outfitters also has great bags!!
Thanks Josh great info. I'm just learning, but I'll only be flying Sim. I'm 72 and I've always wanted to really fly, but can't now because of health reasons, so Sim will have to do and I have a great imagination lol. I watch your vids, you talk a little fast for me, but I'm starting to learn more and now I can understand you more. Just like playing ball, the speed finally starts slowing down. Again, thanks a million, oh BTW, I won't be stealing any of your credit cards!!
Great tips Josh, most important to have all those things near you, in the back seat but never in the cargo compartment. My hand held have save me so many times wjajaja even here in Chile that we have a lot of mountains it works perfectly ! Thanks for this good reviewing. Saludos.
I've got all of these things in my flight bag (except logbook). Even have the same external battery. But two additional suggestions: 1) I use a headlamp instead of handheld flashlight; 2) I've got pics of my endorsements/medical on my iPhone, as well as paper copies folded up and stored in my flight bag.
Agree about paper maps and charts. Paper does't run out of batteries or freeze up. In fact, for ALL IFR flights I have a small ASA binder where I print up ALL approach plates, ODPs, and SIDs for the departure airport, destination airport, and alternative. In fact, my last flight in actual I expected the ILS but was assigned a VOR-A (Bracket Field). I was in actual at the time and my iPad froze up. I grabbed my binder, pulled out the VOR-A and briefed it, no big deal.
Tons of useful and important info in a short time frame. Great advice derived from experience. Two thumbs up Josh, preparation, thinking ahead....you nailed it all !
Great video. Anker should consider Neon colors for their chargers. Maybe even glow in the dark.
Really enjoy your videos. Can you make a non-foreflight paper Checklist recommendation?
May I suggest a pocket first aid kit too ? Mine is just a clear pencil case with a few plasters, headache tablets, hand sanitiser, a pocket pack of tissues & few gauzes with pair of tweezers too. Enough for bumps & scrapes or a blister or 2
You have the flight bag with all that stuff but where is the snack bag? That is very important too! lol... Great job Josh!
Good tips on the log book and the med cert.
What an awesome video. Really liked the little tips along the way.
Bulldog clip on the steno pad...yup, been doing that since the start of training! One suggestion...since a pulse oximeter is on your list - handheld cans of O2. At 9,500 MSL last year, I was at 92% on the meter. Two short hits from a handheld bottle and I was back at my normal 98%. Very effective, tho not the same as built-in O2.
I use to backup all my entries in the logbook with an online app. There's plenty of apps out there, I've tried MyFlightbook and is good enogh. Another mean of backing up that info is just to take a photo with the smartphone, i.e. once you finish a page. Good video, I'm glad only a couple items were not in my flight bag, the ones I've not purchased yet.
Great video, I use the same flash light too. I modified mine and put a small eye bolt in the end of the flashlight. I cut off the excess off so it would not hit the negative terminal on the battery and clip it to a lanyard so this way I can put around my neck and wont drop it and then can not find it.
Depending on stick vs. yoke and the type of harness it also might be a good idea to turn a slim backpack around and wear it on your chest, with all the essential stuff in it in order to make sure you have it in case you have to leave the plane in a hurry after a crash. If you crash in an unpopulated or remote area (mountains, forest..), e.g. not leaving the phone inside the airplane can be crucial in order to call for help. If you crash at night (or before sunset) or in questionable weather, you might have to spend a night in cold and ugly weather before rescue teams are able to get to you the next day. I therefore would also carry a light&compact rain coat and some basic emergency equipment in that flightbag, like e.g. an emergency blanket, some basic first aid medical stuff, a lighter...
A fuel drain cup and a tank dip-stick probably are also in most flightbags.
_On a sidenote about the paper charts_ : I agree that they are great for students but electronic charts have the great advantage that they show the position on a moving map, including terrain and airspace warnings. I wonder how many airspace conflicts happend only because of old-school paper charts and whiskey compass ...
Great video! Especially found the what not put in your fight bag eye opening.
I've always wondered, why not invert your kneeboard so the clip at the top is now your clip at the bottom and holds your pad papers from flapping around in the wind? The pad itself is already bound on the top end, and it saves you from having to get/lose/find a separate paper clip.
Chris P I feel like the clip would irritate my wrist like that. My wrist rests and slides across the bottom as I write. I usually put a tiny binder clip at the very bottom.
I’ve had the same flashlight sense 2006 and it still works
You mentioned that if you wear contacts you need to carry a pair of glasses as a backup, is the same also true for people that wear glasses as well, that you need to carry a backup pair?
Hey man great and useful vid!! I would like to see how you do your charts and all the things you use your iPad for!!!
As a new pilot, that was interesting info about the logbook and med cert. My CFI mentioned the same thing m, but you drove it home. Thanks. 👍
Another tip is take a photo on your cell phone of everything as a backup. This includes photo ID, license, med certificate, endorsements, any prescription meds you take, etc. The phones can hold heaps of photos. I do it with my drivers license, health care cards, workplace certificates, etc.
Logbook question: digital logbooks!.What is your take on e-log books? Garmin has one built-in to Garmin Pilot. This gives you easy access to logging from anywhere AND if you crash it is backed up online so anyone can get it later. There are many stand-alone commercial ones as well.
Like a lot of the other people I never thought about not caring my log book but certainly does make sense. My question would be what do you do to keep track of your time? Do you use an electronic one and transfer it over?
Do you have a video on how to afford the flight training.?
Small tip about the logbook: a lot of aircraft owners keep their airplane logs in a digital format as well as a hardcopy format. Outside of a crash, there is nothing that will devalue an airplane faster than missing logbooks. It is easy enough to scan your logs into a digital PDF format that you can keep on your computer or in the cloud. The same is true for your pilot logbooks. If you have access to a scanner, definitely make digital copies of all your credentials and records.
Thank u. So much good info. It sounds like we should photograph our log book.
Would you ever consider using a logging app on your iPad in addition a paper logbook?
Great job in this video. Lots of good information. Thanks for making the video.