GPS For The Amateur Pilot

Dave · Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2003 8:04 am Post subject: GPS For The Amateur Pilot

Learning to fly is clearly one of the most demanding and enjoyable projects, with the normal objective of achieving a Private Pilots Licence (PPL). However most flying schools operate quite elderly aircraft without in-built GPS systems and PPL navigation training does not include GPS, nor is it encouraged as a "reliable" primary system.

This is the first of many articles to discuss how to start using GPS for the Amateur Pilot.

The full article can be read here

TonyP · Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2003 8:04 am Post subject: GPS For The Amateur Pilot

NavGPS basic might be worth a look for flying in Europe. It is only $99 and you can get a $9 data update at the start of the flying season. Most of the features of the Pro version, except for topographical display only apply to the US.

Another problem in Europe is that many of these products omit class E airspace and danger areas which is a common class at VFR altitudes, especially at PPL type airfields in France (Calais, Le Touquet) Allthough you are not obliged to talk to anyone in class E, the controllers get cross if you just announce finals without first telling them you want to enter their airspace.

Same with danger areas, they are not prohibited, just dangerous. If the French air force see you in a low flying corridor, they will make it a point of honour to treat you to an up-close-and-personal air display.

PeterB · Regular Visitor Joined: 04/10/2002 16:38:07 Posts: 195

Tony P,

Thanks for comments:

I will certainly look at NavGPS shortly.

Airspace can be a problem. Only last week when flying over Ostend we were asked to change course ?????some sort of millitary activity, but not explained!!!

Am curently looking at soft ware which includes all types of airspace, from A toG, and with European maps and data and should be able to comment in a few weeks.

Enjoy your flying

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PeterB, Kent, U.K.

pevelius · Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2003 8:04 am Post subject: GPS For The Amateur Pilot

Quote: Am curently looking at soft ware which includes all types of airspace, from A toG, and with European maps and data and should be able to comment in a few weeks.

which one would that be?

PeterB · Regular Visitor Joined: 04/10/2002 16:38:07 Posts: 195

pevelius,

Trade secret!!!! at the moment!

I'm sure that you will like it though.
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PeterB, Kent, U.K.

pevelius · Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2003 8:04 am Post subject: GPS For The Amateur Pilot

, nice! luv secrets!

pevelius · Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2003 8:04 am Post subject: GPS For The Amateur Pilot

Peter, any progress with that epic program you are working on?

i took a test flight on eurostar (ultra light). incredibly agile and easy to handle compared to c-152. and the view through the dome...marvellous experience.

PeterB · Regular Visitor Joined: 04/10/2002 16:38:07 Posts: 195

Pevelius,

Sounds a bit bouncy, I prefer something a bit heavier, the Piper Warrior is nice and stable for long flights.

The next product report is now flight tested and complete. We give the supplier a chance to comment before we publish so it won't be too long.
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PeterB, Kent, U.K.

schford · Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2003 8:04 am Post subject: GPS For The Amateur Pilot

Hi yup sooner the better I am currently doing my PPL and would love to know what the best proggy is for plane navigation!

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