Readback: August 2014

Reference Fred Simonds article Need Datalink? in the May 2014 issue. We first put datalink into our Bonanza about a dozen years ago after being stuck for a few extra days by weather. We had a post-mounted StratoCheetah by Echo Flight that used the Iridium satellite system. It worked reasonably well but was intrusive. Next a panel upgrade included the, then, UPSAT MX-20 with WSI datalink FIS. This is what we still use today in contrast to the XMWX system mentioned as the only available system in the article. There are some differences in the data and presentation, but the WSI receiver provides most of the same information as XM systems I have used.

Key Takeaways:

• Various datalink systems, including older WSI and modern ADS-B, are essential for aviation safety and flight planning, with ADS-B also enabling pre-flight weather checks on the ground.
• Legally, pilots in non-GPS equipped aircraft should request a vector when given or requesting "direct" routing, ensuring navigation is conducted under radar oversight.
• The pilot shortage is seen as stemming from both uncompetitive starting wages for regional airline pilots and, more fundamentally, a lack of new pilots entering general aviation at the outset.
• Locating specific waypoints, especially RNAV fixes not depicted on traditional charts, often requires a multi-step process utilizing online databases and detailed procedure charts.

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