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Sizing Up Your New Aircraft

Ergonomics is one aspect few people consider in selecting an airplane to buy.

The tiny Quickie—an innovative way to convert 18 hp into 100 knots and 100 miles per gallon but only accessible to smaller pilots. [Credit: Jason McDowell]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Ergonomics and pilot size compatibility are critical, often overlooked factors in aircraft selection, significantly impacting the ownership experience and comfort.
  • Certain aircraft types are better suited for larger pilots (e.g., spacious cabins, heavier controls) while others are ideal for smaller pilots (e.g., compact cockpits, better useful load).
  • Both larger and smaller pilots face unique physical challenges with different aircraft, affecting comfort, control, and ground handling.
  • Prospective aircraft buyers should prioritize evaluating ergonomics early in the process by "trying on" different aircraft and consulting with other pilots of similar stature.
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When evaluating the many concerns involved with selecting an aircraft type to purchase, most people cover all the bases. Engine time and health, hangar availability, insurance cost, training requirements, and similar issues generally play a part in the decision—and for good reason. They’re all important elements that can significantly affect the ownership experience.

One aspect that few people take into consideration—early in the process, anyway—is ergonomics. This is primarily only a concern with particularly large and small pilots, but it’s an important one nonetheless. Certain aircraft types are simply incompatible with people of certain sizes, and these are pilot/machine combinations to avoid. 

Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.

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