Navigating the course is easy, given that it is divided into slides, much like a Microsoft PowerPoint presentation. The entire program is narrated, and clear graphics are used to explain complex procedures and concepts. There's also a handy search function, and the entire script is included for those who prefer to read the most complex material. The program is compatible with both Windows and Macintosh personal computers.
Price: $99.95
For more information: 800/247-6553; www.pilotlearning.com
Zululog.com Online Logbook
Responding to what it calls "poor risk management" to keep only a paper logbook, Zululog.com has introduced a versatile and fully capable online logbook for everyone from a beginning student to a captain for a major airline. The most amazing part--the resource is free!
At its most basic, the logbook will record flights with all applicable info one would expect from such a product: type of airplane, flight time broken down by pilot in command, second in command, or simulator; cost tracking; and instrument approach fields all are available. Zululog also has a built-in check system that won't allow a user to log, say, two hours of PIC time and only one hour of total flight time. When you're finished logging a flight, a map comes up with virtual pins that shows the departure and destination.
In addition to the basic log, there's a flight instruction record section, a place to keep track of currency, and an aircraft log. Flight logs can be downloaded into a spreadsheet, and an RSS feed is available to keep track of recent flights.
A premium membership is available for $9.95 per month or $99 per year that allows one to upload a current log from a spreadsheet and have unlimited entries to certain sections that are restricted with the free membership.
Price: Basic account is free; premium is $9.95 per month ($99 per year).
For more information: www.zululog.com
Professional Pilot's Career Guide
If becoming a career pilot is your goal, Rob Mark's new book, Professional Pilot's Career Guide, will serve as the bible of everything you've ever wanted to know about working in aviation. From the major airlines to fractional operators to the military, Mark covers it all in the Guide.
Though the Guide is ultimately most useful for newer students, pilots, and CFIs, seasoned pros will find useful tidbits, advice, and resources. In fact, if you were to only read and use the chapter containing the list of Internet resources, the book would more than pay for itself.
Mark's book contains chapters with detailed profiles of both the regional and major airlines, to which many readers of the Guide likely aspire. There is also a chapter on how to most effectively tackle flight instruction and advanced ratings, a lengthy list of common interview questions, a chapter on other types of professional flying, and a useful chapter on job-hunting tips.
But for those who are reaching for the airlines, the two chapters on these companies are invaluable. Mark explains in detail about what life is like in the cockpit, the ups and down of unions--and most important, the harsh realities of commuting, flying on reserve, and the low pay that everyone initially pulls in.
Price: $17.95
For more information: www.amazon.com
NYCIB Military Pilot Relief Bag
Your first solo cross-country flight may not be long enough to require an unscheduled landing to answer the call, but chances are that a long flight in the future will result in a frustrating pit stop long before your destination. While there are a number of products ranging from disposable bags to plastic containers to solve the problem, the New York Institute for the Blind (NYCIB) Military Pilot Relief Bag is an inexpensive, clean, easy solution that will keep you flying as long as your tanks will take you.
The NYCIB is a special manufacturing facility located in Brooklyn, New York, that serves to provide jobs for blind citizens of the New York metro area. As the name indicates, the relief bag was developed for a government contract through the military. Now available to general aviation pilots, the bag is heavy-duty plastic with nontoxic absorbent granules inside that almost immediately absorb up to 25 ounces of fluid.
During ideal testing conditions on the ground, both men and women found the bag easy to use. There was little to no spillback, and because the bag is clear, it's easy to see how much it will take before becoming full. When you're done, the bendable strap on the top can be rolled to keep it closed and reduce any chance of spills or odor.
A wet wipe is included as well.
Price: $4.99
For more information: 877/336-9242; www.nycib.org
Heads Up Flight Desk
The folks at Safeaviatior.com have improved on an already great product idea. The Heads Up Flight Desk is a yoke-mounted, removable clipboard that also includes a mini flashlight with a bendable head attached to the top. The newest version, the Master Pilot, includes a clamp that can accommodate yokes between one-half inch and two inches wide--handy for renters or flight instructors who transition between numerous airplanes.
The board is easy to install. A briefing card on the face includes a list of passenger briefing items, a crew briefing list, an engine-failure checklist, and a prelanding checklist. The light, while bright, is small and flexible. Because it easily points down hands-free, loss of night vision isn't a concern.
Price: $74.95 for Master Pilot; $39.95 for standard.
For more information: www.safeaviator.com
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