Size—and Safety

Size—and Safety—Matters

Tuesday, October 05, 2021 at 03:03 PM ET

Verified

You have to have a sight picture to fly safely. If you need a cushion or cushions to achieve that, you have an important choice to make.[Credit: Appareo]

Key Takeaways:

Many pilots, particularly those of shorter stature, require booster cushions to ensure proper visibility (sight picture) and comfortable reach of flight controls, which is crucial for safe and effective flying.
While improvised solutions exist, purpose-built aviation booster cushions offer superior effectiveness, comfort, and security, with various options differing in price, materials (e.g., foam, gel), and ergonomic design, like the research-backed Oregon Aero SoftSeat.
The article also briefly touches upon the challenges faced by tall pilots, who must carefully select aircraft that accommodate their height without compromising control access or comfort.