The ability to use a mechanical E6B flight computer—a form of a circular slide rule that helps calculate things like fuel burn, wind correction, and time en route—is the “cursive writing” of the aviation world. Once taught in every flight school and used in every cockpit, it is increasingly rare as other technologies—apps and the electronic flight computer—have replaced it. Some people might argue that the mechanical E6B “flight confuser” is old technology and should be retired. However, it still works for solving performance questions, and there are still pilots who prefer it.
I own both mechanical and electronic E6B flight computers. And, I teach both because as long as they are both used in the aviation world, it is my responsibility to show them to learners.
