Aircraft Upgrades Create Flying Lab for Fun, Performance Gains

Testing and evaluating the effect of altering the aviation experience can become a hobby of its own.

Jason McDowell

Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 09:54 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Kimberly Johnson

Not every aircraft modification or accessory must be rooted in logic or common sense. Sometimes, justification lies in the fun of evaluating and enjoying something that alters the flying experience. [Credit: Jason McDowell]

Key Takeaways:

The author finds joy in upgrading his espresso setup and airplane, driven by curiosity and the pleasure of technical exploration rather than strict necessity or a refined palate.
Many airplane modifications, though sometimes appearing excessive for their stated purpose, deliver unexpected, intangible benefits that significantly enhance the overall flying experience and peace of mind.
For the author, evaluating these modifications has become a hobby in itself, transforming his airplane into a "flying laboratory" for continuous experimentation and enjoyment.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Recently, I’ve reignited an old hobby that’s been dormant for years—coffee. Specifically, espresso.

First, I dusted off my old La Pavoni Europiccola lever machine and reminded myself how much I used to enjoy the art and science of extracting the perfect shot. Within weeks, I upgraded to an ECM Puristika and continued on my merry way of pursuing quickly diminishing returns via an ever-expanding assortment of cool gadgetry.