Bling

As I write this, the annual Sun n Fun Fly-In is ongoing at the Lakeland (Fla.) Linder Regional Airport, less than two hours away from me by car. I spent opening day there and will be returning as soon as I put the finishing touches on this issue. Even sun, fun and airplanes must wait when deadlines approach. My full day on the show grounds was spent mostly shopping. Events like this are great opportunities to stock up on airplane consumables-I bought some spark plugs, hydraulic fluid and other odds and ends at great prices-as well as drool over the latest and greatest offerings from a wide range of vendors. Owning and operating an airplane is never for the faint of heart, and finding good deals on parts and supplies leaves more scarce cash laying around for important stuff like $5.50/gallon fuel and unscheduled maintenance.

Key Takeaways:

• The author observes a "false economy" where pilots at aviation events prioritize non-essential "bling" and gadgets over crucial safety equipment.
• Despite complaints about high fuel prices, many pilots neglect vital and increasingly affordable safety gear, such as portable oxygen systems, which are essential for mitigating risks like insidious hypoxia.
• It is critical for pilots to prioritize fundamental flight safety equipment—like oxygen, current charts, and required inspections—over less critical cockpit accessories.

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