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So now that we’ve gone over ADS-B Out, we can talk more about ADS-B in.ADS-B In is the equipment that allows the pilot to read the position reports from other aircraft. It contains Flight Information Service Broadcasts (FIS-B) and Traffic Information Service Broadcasts (TIS-B). It is optional and there are a number of portable ADS-B In Receivers that allow this. In addition to traffic, ADS-B also provides certain weather updates. In flight, the pilot can receive METARs, TAFs, NOTAMs, …

Are you ADS-B equipped? It’s the Law!You may have heard Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) is required for certain aircraft in certain areas. Here are some ADS-B basics. ADS-B consists of two types, ADS-B Out and ADS-B In. Only ADS-B Out is required for certain aircraft. ADS-B Out broadcasts a signal using position data as well as other information. It then sends that signal to ground based locations where it can be received by air traffic control as well as other ADS-B equ …

GPS is a term heard often in aviation as well as everyday life. Do you need to find out how to get somewhere? Oh just use the GPS in your phone. The same could be said for aviation. Most instructors will teach dead reckoning or pilotage expecting you to use that for navigating VFR. A GPS unit would also come in handy if you find yourself lost or spatially disoriented.How does it work? The Global Positioning System, or GPS, is basically a constellation of satellites that send signals to grou …

Handheld GPS units come in all shapes and sizes. People are constantly asking which the best unit for their needs. Depending on which electronic flight bag or flight tracking software you are using, the choice could be rather obvious. For example, if you use the Garmin Pilot application, a Garmin GPS unit would probably be the logical choice. It is best to check the compatibility first of the electronic flight bag application you are using.  There are really two different kinds of handheld …

So you want to be a pilot? It can be very daunting getting started. Here are some ideas…  Find a flight school: Some people are limited by the number of flight schools in their region. Luckily here in San Diego, there is a plethora of flight schools as well as flying clubs. The best way to find a flight school is to go visit and learn about their program as well as the variety of instructors, planes, etc. You do not have to pick your flight instructor just yet, but it is a good …

How to Choose a Flight BagWe know that there are many different options to choosing a flight bag. A lot of people ask us for flight bag recommendations and our answer is always the same: it’s a personal decision. Sure we can recommend one or another depending on the type of flying you do, or based on the amount of equipment you would like to carry. But ultimately YOU are the one that is going to be using it. There are many different considerations to buying a flight bag:Type of UseAre you …