11 Things You Should Carry in Your Flight Bag

One of the rules for pilots is that they need to be familiar with all available information prior to a flight (FAR 91.103). The gear you carry in your flight bag should reflect this—prepare for the plan, and plan for the unexpected.

Meg Godlewski

Monday, September 26, 2022 at 06:00 PM ET

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Stylish? Yes, but it's what's inside that counts. [Courtesy: Flight Outfitters]

Key Takeaways:

Pilots are required to carry essential gear in their flight bag to comply with regulations and be prepared for both planned operations and unexpected situations.
Core operational equipment includes a headset, kneeboard, writing implements, and current paper or digital charts, all with necessary power backups.
Crucial items for safety and contingency planning consist of an aviation flashlight, a robust multitool, fuel management tools, a survival kit, and a handheld radio.
Practical provisions such as spare batteries and cash for vending machines are also recommended for unforeseen circumstances.

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1. Headset

The headset is often the most important piece of equipment a pilot carries. If you don’t think you need one, try conducting a flight in an enclosed-cockpit airplane without one—about 20 minutes into it, the noise and the vibration will leave you feeling like you’ve been flying all day. Don’t forget extra batteries for the headset if required. Add a flight helmet or leather cap for your headset if you’re flying an open-cockpit airplane.