Aviation Equipment Rental

Have you ever wished that you had a video camera to record that special flight? How about a GPS tracker for a little extra piece of mind on that long flight across the rugged mountain pass?

I know that there are a lot of tools and gadgets that I would like to carry on certain flights but I simply cannot justify the initial or recurring costs. We are working on integrating a shopping cart to this blog that will allow you to rent a camera, GPS tracker, or other gizmo for a couple of days or longer if needed.

Below is an example from the shopping cart for a SPOT tracker. All rentals will include the service plan required for that device but not shipping or insurance.

GPS Rentals

Watch Our Video User Guide for SPOT Messenger Rental Rent a SPOT 2 GPS Personal Tracker & Locator Beacon 3 Days $??.00 7 Days $??.00 14 Days $??.00 21 Days $??.00 1 Month $??.00 Other items you might be interested in AAA Energizer Ultimate Lithium Batteries - 3 Pack InReach SE DeLorme 2-way Satellite Communicator / Rescue Device

  

Does Garmin have a PC simulator for my aviation GPS?

The answer is a resounding...... probably. Garmin has been known for their terrific customer support over the years so I would be surprised if they didn't offer some sort of free training right on their web site. Below you will find an extract taken from their web site that shows a list of supported units with links to their training products. This is a little dated but should remain helpful for years to come.

If you don't find what you are looking for, contact me directly as I have a library of material and can offer some hands on training in your airplane if you wish.

Have fun and fly safe!

Does Garmin have a PC simulator for my aviation GPS unit?

07/27/2011

Garmin currently has PC simulators for the following aviation units:

• GNS 400/W
• GNS 420/W
• GNS 430/W
• GNS 500/W
• GNS 530/W
• GNS 480
• GTN 750
• GTN 725
• GTN 650
• GTN 635
• GTN 625
• G600 / G500
• G1000

All simulators, except the G1000 simulators, are available to download free of charge from our website at http://www8.garmin.com/include/SimulatorPopup.html for the GNS 400/500 series, https://buy.garmin.com/shop/store/downloadsUpdates.jsp?product=010-0G600-00&cID=195&pID=6427 for the G500/G600, or https://buy.garmin.com/shop/store/downloadsDetails.jsp?id=5379&product=010-00820-50&cID=194&pID=67886 for the GTN 600/700 series.

The DVD-ROM for the G1000 simulator can be purchased at https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=153&pID=6420 under PC Trainers on the Accessories tab.

Latest edition of "Say Again, Please" released

As published in General Aviation News

Latest edition of ‘Say Again, Please’ released

The fifth edition of “Say Again, Please” has been released.

Talking on an aviation radio and understanding air traffic control instructions can be one of the most intimidating aspects of flight training. In “Say Again, Please” Bob Gardner explains how the ATC system works and teaches readers what to say, what to expect to hear, and how to interpret and react to clearances and instructions.

 This new edition has been updated to reflect current rules and operating procedures, according to the publisher. Chapters cover communication etiquette and rules, understanding radio equipment, emergency situations, and both VFR and IFR communications and clearances.

Also included is a concise summary of the FAA’s communication facilities and their functions, airspace classifications and definitions, and the FAA’s recommended shorthand for copying clearances.

The communication requirements for entering, departing, and transiting each class of airspace is explained in detail by following along with the author on “simulated” flights. A full-color sectional excerpt is provided for the example flights, so readers can review the map while reading the explanation for flying and talking in each area.

Price: $19.95.

Support Lets Fly Washington

If you like what you read here and you want to help us continue to not only bring you tid bits about my training, but to develop in to the flying club that we so hope to become then please look at our products below.

We are starting to offer mouse pads and mugs with the Sport Cruiser image and will add other airplanes as we collect some good snap shots.

We will also add video of flights to local attractions and city views in the near future.

Join us and get your goodies!

Lets Fly Mugs, Mouse Pads and More.

Garmin 696 Aviation GPSMAP

		Click for more details!
List Price: $3,295.00 Our Price: $2,999.00 Product # 5778 Shipping only $0.99! Email to a Friend Garmin GPSMAP 695 (Americas) Questions? Write a Review		Garmin GPSMAP 696 (Americas) - 10 customer reviews. Click for a larger/zoom image Meet our ultimate portable MFD: the GPSMAP 696, an all-in-one navigator designed exclusively for aviation. Featuring a large screen, detailed electronic charts and real-time weather, the 696 is your own personal avionics system. See the Big Picture The GPSMAP 696's bright 7-inch diagonal high-definition sunlight-readable display makes detailed mapping easy to see day or night - you can even view an entire approach plate on the large-format display. For easy operation, the bezel around the screen includes soft keys and a joystick control. And with a fast 5 Hz GPS update rate, the 696 renders graphics and presents flight data smoothly and continuously. No Chart? No Problem. With the addition of Garmin FliteCharts(R) and IFR map mode, the GPSMAP 696 has Class 1/Class 2 electronic flight bag (EFB) capability, reducing the use of paper charts in the cockpit. With FliteCharts, you can quickly find and view all U.S. NACO departure procedures (DP), standard terminal arrival routes (STARs), approach charts and airport diagrams. If the current approach is known, GPSMAP 696 automatically selects the correct chart based on the flight plan. When in IFR map mode, the 696 can display victor airways, jet routes, minimum enroute altitude and leg distance, much like found on paper enroute charts. Add Weather and Radio The GPSMAP 696 includes a GXM 40 smart antenna, which gives you access to high-resolution weather and audio entertainment right in the cockpit (XM subscription required). XM WX(TM) Satellite Weather includes next generation radar (NEXRAD), aviation routine weather reports (METARs), terminal aerodrome forecasts (TAFs), temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), lightning, winds aloft and more for the U.S. and Canada. In addition, the 696 can receive PIREPs, turbulence forecast and icing forecast information. The weather data can be laid directly over the unit's navigation and topographic map databases. With 170+ channels of digital music, news and programming through your aircraft headset or cabin audio system, you'll stay informed and entertained. Enhance Situational Awareness The GPSMAP 696 features a high-resolution terrain page showing hazards relative to your altitude and a vertical profile of terrain along your route of flight. It comes with a built-in Jeppesen database, and an Americas, Atlantic or Pacific terrain database. It also includes an obstacles database for the U.S. or Europe. Using this information, the 696 displays your flight route over contour terrain mapping. With information from the terrain and obstacles databases, the 696 monitors your current position in relation to surrounding terrain to provide alerts. You can even customize your own minimum clearance levels to receive terrain cautions. The 696 also comes with a realistic "view from space" satellite imagery basemap. Like other portable Garmin devices, the 696 includes the following enhanced aviation databases: Garmin SafeTaxi(R) Provides detailed taxiway diagrams and position information for over 850 U.S. airports. Preloaded on the unit, this information helps you navigate unfamiliar airports with confidence and shows your aircraft's exact position on the field. AOPA Airport Directory Offers detailed information for over 5,300 U.S. airports, along with the names and phone numbers of thousands of FBOs. Easily look up taxi services, plan an overnight, and choose fuel stops, plus find ground transportation, lodging, restaurants, local attractions and more. Private Airports and Heliports Provides data on private airports and heliports throughout U.S. and Europe, and materially expands your list of navigation and emergency "nearest" options. Receive Altitude-Sensitive Alerts When in the air, Garmin's new Smart Airspace(TM) feature makes it easier than ever to identify what airspace lies ahead. Smart Airspace automatically highlights airspace close to your current altitude and de-emphasizes airspace away from the current altitude, which gives you increased situational awareness. Expand Your Portable The GPSMAP 696 includes an SD card slot for extra memory and updates. Keep track of the databases on your GPSMAP 696 through www.fly.garmin.com, our online manager that helps you update, manage and purchase the latest aviation data for your Garmin device, all in one place. What's in the Box: GPSMAP 696 Free single database update Yoke mount GXM(TM) 40 smart antenna XM USB extension cable GA 25 remote antenna with suction cup mount 12/24 volt power cable AC power adapter USB cable Protective cover Owner's manual Quick reference guide List Price: $3,295.00 Our Price: $2,999.00 Shipping only $0.99! Other Helpful Documents: Garmin 696 Owner Manual Garmin 696 Quick Reference Guide Lowest Price Guaranteed: If you find a better price elsewhere on this product we will match that price and beat it by 10% of the difference. Buy With Confidence! Purchase today and you can return it in the original condition through Tuesday, February 02, 2010! Our return policy. Have a question about Garmin GPSMAP 696 (Americas)? Ask your question and see previous Q & A about this product.

Zaon Portable Collision Avoidance System

Zaon Portable Collision Avoidance System - PCAS XRX Onyx

Click for more information and to order

Zaon PCAS XRXO-A Onyx system: The first portable collision avoidance system to give
you relative altitude. And now, the only device with quadrant direction. Why
would you fly without it?

• Tiny, unobtrusive size (3.9" x 3.6" x 2.7")


• Digital range, scalable from 6NM to 1NM


• Relative altitude, scalable from +-2500 ft to +-500 ft, with
  ascending/descending indicator


• Metal or composite airframes


• Displays top three intruders


• A built-in altimeter, a built-in compass, and a built-in turn/bank
  sensor, and internal thermometer provide the highest, real-time accuracy
  available


• Completely portable


• Audio voice alerts for threats and advisories are included, with both
  Headset-Direct(TM) hookup and in-cabin output


• Built-in directional antenna


• Instant traffic updates with no delays


• "3-D" view Quadrant Direction, 45° increments


• Menu-driven interface, with selectable aircraft profiles and advanced
  calibration options


• Displays the local squawk code, altitude, bank angle, bearing and
  temperature


• RS-232 out for integration with other units.

XRX is the first ever portable, passive, stand-alone collision avoidance
system for general aviation to offer direction from within the cockpit. Threat
aircraft direction can be detected from within your cockpit in a tiny,
self-contained unit. XRX offers multiple aircraft information, audio alerts and
advisories, an easy-to-use menu interface, and local information. XRX displays
"3-D View" quadrant bearing information, as well as relative altitude and range,
all from inside the cockpit and without the need for external antenna arrays.

The detection window is scalable with a maximum range of 6 NM, and altitude
of +/-2500 feet. The tiny unit is only 3.9" (100mm) wide, 3.6" (93mm) deep, and
2.7" (69mm) tall. The majority of the height is for the enclosed antenna array.
XRX tracks up to 10 aircraft and displays the top three threats with all three
axis of information. Close traffic is announced by two levels of voice alerts.

Following in the footsteps of previous models, the traffic information
accuracy is the best in the industry. Range is accurate to 0.2 NM on average,
and altitude to +/- 200 ft. The unit displays the local squawk code, altitude,
and bearing. The easy-to-read LCD display boasts large numerals and EL
backlighting for night operation. All parameters are controlled by an
easy-to-use menu system.

XRX includes many built-in sensors for razor-sharp accuracy, including a
pressure altimeter for relative altitude accuracy, a solid-state 16-point
compass for bearing accuracy, a solid-state attitude and bank sensor for bearing
accuracy, temperature compensators and overtemp protection for accuracy in any
environment. The unit also monitors aircraft bus voltage and host transponder
operations and is powered through aircraft power (12-40 V compatible). All
traffic data is output through a built-in RS-232 data port. An installable
upgrade will also be available.

Everything you need is included!

• Dash-mount unit with integrated antenna


• Cigarette-lighter adaptor


• Audio cable


• Velcro mounting dots


• Silicone "gripper" feet


• 75-page Owner's Manual


• Quick Guide


• Hard carrying case

List Price: $1,795.00



Our Price: $1,375.00
Click for more information and to order

PPING!

Bendix/King AV8OR Handheld GPS / MFD

Bendix/King AV8OR Handheld GPS / MFD

Click for details and current price

Sleek, Powerful and Versatile; in the Air or on the Ground. The new Bendix/King
AV8OR Handheld Multi-Function Display (MFD) takes you to the airport, provides
airborne weather and guidance enroute to your destination, and even provides
multimedia entertainment along the way. Designed by pilots, for pilots; the
AV8OR's innovative features and exceptional graphical user interface mean you'll
spend less time entering data and more time piloting.

Features:

• Big 4.3" Touch Screen LCD


• Real-time satellite weather (with WxWorx XM receiver and XM
  subscription, purchased separately)


• Built-in automotive database


• Multimedia player (music, movies & more)


• Bluetooth cell phone/GPS interface


• On-screen keyboard for easy entry of identifiers


• Smart-Profile Altitude Display view lets you plan ahead with a vertical
  profile view of terrain, airspaces and obstacles on your course


• Touch-and-See feature lets you identify and get critical information for
  objects on the map with a simple tap on the screen


• Touch-and-Drag feature makes panning the map a simple, one-touch
  operation


• The AV8OR can be easily connected to your PC for quick database updates
  as well as uploads of flight plans or multimedia files


• Upload logged flights to your home PC for display on programs such as
  Google Earth


• 4 GB data card contains aviation and automotive databases for either
  North America/Canada or Europe


• Automotive database includes more than 10 million Points of Interest
  (POI) in the U.S. and 2 million POIs in Canada


• Dual Bluetooth interfaces for alternate devices such as a cell phone, XM
  weather receiver, or alternate GPS Receiver

Bendix/King's new AV8OR, a portable GPS with navigation routing and planning
for aircraft use and car navigation functionality as well.

The new Bendix/King AV8OR portable Multi-Function Display (MFD) provides GPS
navigation and weather information for both the aircraft and vehicle, with an
exceptional graphical user interface. The AV8OR puts the essential functionality
that pilots want in an easy to use and easy to see package, all at a very
affordable price.

By putting more information in the hands of pilots, the AV8OR helps enhance
situational awareness and safety in the cockpit. Small and sleek, the AV8OR is
designed with an external interface to access displayable XM weather information
and features a moving map with vertical terrain profile on a large, easy to
read, 4.3-inch diagonal display.

The AV8OR features a 20-channel SiRF III GPS receiver that receives WAAS
Satellite signals. The adjustable, high-brightness 150 fL LCD with 480 x 272
pixels provides a clear, clean view of your route with an efficient touch screen
and exceptional user interface derived from the pilot friendly, panel mounted
Bendix/King MFD systems. Powered by the latest in mobile processing, the AV8OR
includes a 4-Gigabyte data card containing aviation databases for North and
South America or Europe and Africa and automotive databases specific to
U.S./Canada or Europe with plenty of room to spare.

This device is easily connected to your PC for quick file or database updates
as well as uploads of flight plans. Users can also see logged flights from
programs such as Google Earth.

In addition to aircraft and automobile navigation, its features include a
music/movie player, ability to read electronic books and dual Bluetooth
interfaces for alternate devices such as a cell phone, XM Weather Receiver, or
Alternate GPS Receiver. Mounting hardware for both your car and your airplane is
included in the package.

Add XM Satellite Weather for Less Than $473.00

The AV8OR interfaces with the XM satellite weather via either a portable
receiver from WxWorx (purchased separately), or the KDR-610 WX receiver. If
using the WxWorx receiver, either the Bluetooth-enabled version or an RS-232
version with a custom cable for the AV8OR Unit can be used. When you
purchase an AV8OR you will receive a coupon from WxWorx in the box good for the
purchase of a WxWorx Bluetooth receiver for the discounted price of $472.61
(Wireless Bluetooth receiver bundle) or $376.00 (Wired RS232 receiver bundle).
Limit one receiver per AV8OR purchase. Receiver must be purchased directly from
WxWorx using the enclosed coupon.

Standard equipment includes:

• 800MAh Battery


• 12V-28V DC Adapter


• 120/220V AC Adapter


• PC/USB Cable


• Carrying Bag, Remote GPS Antenna


• Aviation Mount


• Automotive Windshield Mount


• Earphones


• CD of User's Manual


• Printed Quick Reference Guide


• 4-Gig Data Card with Car and Aviation Databases (for US/Canada)

Weight: 7.6 oz

Width: 5.04 in. (12.8 cm)

Height: 3.23 in. (8.2 cm)

Length (Depth): 0.86 in (2.2 cm)

List Price: $799.00
Click for details and current price

Aviation Books

If you are looking for the latest AIM or FAR or maybe just looking for a new aviation related adventure I bet we'll have it.



We are now offering a great selection of books, DVDs, study material and much more through Letsflywa.com.



Be sure to check out our pilot shop while you are at it and may your skies always be blue and your winds be favorable.

aviation, flying, pilot, flying lessons, Student Pilot, Partnership, Cessna, Airplane Sales

COMM1 VFR Radio Simulator

Comm1: VFR Radio Simulator CD-ROM - Master VFR Communications on your computer!

I don't know how many times I've listened to a nervous pilot botch an easy radio call.

I'm still a new pilot myself but I found that my military training has taken away the "mic fright" that a lot of people have. You just need practice to overcome this problem but how many people with "normal" jobs use a radio that requires proper procedure?

Its just not normal for most people. Have no fear because the people at COMM1 have a simulator that will help overcome these fears.

Check out our featured item this week, improve your radio calls and sound like a professional when you talk to ATC.

Come visit us at Let's Fly Washington

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Make the dream of owning a plane real

aviation, flying, pilot, flying lessons, Student Pilot, Partnership, Washington

New web site is now open

I am proud to announce the opening of my new web site Lets Fly Washington!

The purpose of this site is to offer a place for pilots in Washington State to meet and share information about places to fly, rent airplanes, join a co-op to reduce ownership costs and just meet new people.

We will also be offering a page to sell your plane, search for planes forsale and to purchase shares of a plane through our co-op plan.

The site is still under construction so please feel free to offer suggestions and tell us about your favorite destinations so we can add them to the site.

I'd love to include a video or two of your favorite trips as well!

Don't let the name fool you, Lets Fly Washington is for everybody that loves aviation and we will accept listing for any type of aircraft from any location so don't be shy!

Come visit Lets Fly Washington!

aviation, flying, pilot, flying lessons, Student Pilot, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Pacific Northwest

Shop for Pilot and Aviation Supplies on-line

We've opened an on-line shop for pilot supplies, gifts and aircraft supplies in partnership with the Let'sFly co-op ownership program.

Not only can you shop for charts, study materials, tugs, etc. but you can also look for your dream airplane or even list your plane for sale for free!

We offer products from the following providers:

• Jeppesen
• ASA
• Gleim
• CH Products
• AvComm

We also have listings for airplanes from the following manufacturers:

• Atec
• AMD
• Beechcraft
• Bellanca
• BushCaddy
• Cessna
• Cirrus
• Piper
• Legend

To search for your dream airplane follow this link:

Aircraft For Sale

To list your airplane use this link:

Sell an Aircraft

To shop at our pilot store follow this link:

Our Pilot Store

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Pilot Supplies Forsale

I am adding a section to my main web site with a list of suggested items to buy.

All of these items will be geared for the private pilot and includes things like headsets, fuel testers, charts and much more.

Below are a couple of the items that will be included as I build this new area for my site.

Please feel free to add reviews and suggestions.


Private Pilot Video Series on DVD

Chart Case Electronic Flight Bag

Fuelhawk Fuel Gauge

Visit CFI Pilot Shop now!



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