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What to Look For in a Flight Computer

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Modern aviation relies on electronic flight computers (EFCs) for efficient calculations of various functions, with advanced models offering extensive features and FAA exam approval.
  • Affordable electronic flight computers are widely available, providing comprehensive functionality for flight planning and test calculations for both student and experienced pilots.
  • Despite the prevalence of EFCs, many CFIs advocate for students to first learn aviation calculations on the traditional analog E-6B ("Whiz Wheel") to grasp fundamental concepts, noting its battery-free reliability.
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As glass panels and EFBs become more widely used today, the calculations made by your grandfather on the famed E-6B analog flight computer are now handled with small, handheld electronic flight computers, or even displayed right on your glass panel. Today’s electronic flight computers are loaded with functionality, but there is still a case to be made by many CFIs for students to first know how to run a “Whiz Wheel.”

FLYING Staff

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