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The Case for New Technology in the Cockpit

A moment caught off guard as a student pilot led the author to buy a portable Garmin GPSMap 295. Getty Images
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Pilots must first master fundamental navigation skills like pilotage and dead reckoning, as these are crucial for understanding navigation and handling unexpected situations such as inflight diversions.
  • The adoption of modern aviation technology, such as GPS, initially raised questions about making flying "too easy" or being a substitute for traditional skills.
  • Ultimately, pilots should confidently integrate advanced technology (GPS, ADS-B, mobile apps) with their foundational skills to enhance safety, efficiency, reduce workload, and improve situational awareness, especially during demanding conditions or diversions.
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Recently, I was working with a student pilot on the subject of inflight diversions — a topic I thoroughly enjoy teaching with pilots of all experience levels because a diversion can result from an unlimited number of variables and external pressures. I liken the exercise to a timed puzzle, which often has more than one solution. Beyond the training environment, I enjoy engaging with fellow pilots on diversion strategies because I’ll quickly learn their priorities and comfort levels in dealing with unexpected occurrences, and maybe even pick up a few new strategies along the way.

Bret Koebbe

Bret Koebbe is a flight instructor and oversees the production of pilot-training courses and mobile apps for Sporty’s Pilot Shop. He flies for fun in a 1963 Piper Aztec and professionally in a Cessna Citation.

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