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.

Joseph E. (Jeb) Burnside

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The author observes a "false economy" among pilots who prioritize non-essential cockpit gadgets over vital safety equipment like portable oxygen systems.
High-quality portable oxygen systems are surprisingly affordable, often costing less than a full tank of fuel, yet pilots frequently use fuel prices as an excuse not to buy them.
Pilots should prioritize essential flight safety items such as oxygen, current charts, and required inspections over "bling" and unnecessary gadgets.

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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.