Aviation GPS & Safety Tips

FlightMaster & GPS gives you a powerful navigation system, but there are still plenty of pitfalls to watch out for. Much of the information on this page applies to any GPS software, not just FlightMaster.

There is a GPS checklist at the end of the FlightMaster user manual - feel free to adapt it to your needs.
Not Approved.

There are many airspace infringements where pilots were using GPS as their primary source. Databases do have errors, though this will not be a valid excuse for the authorities!

FlightMaster on your PalmOS PDA is not an approved navigation system. It must not be used as your primary navigation method.

You can integrate FlightMaster into your navigation methods, as long as you are using an approved source to cross-check. This is common sense anyway - never rely on a single navigation source.

Training & Familiarity

Two gliders collided in the UK, one was thermalling and the other was travelling straight back to the airfield. The pilot of the latter glider had bought a new GPS and had reportedly gone up to try it out, with it strapped to his leg.

Don't try to learn your GPS software's features in your aircraft while you're pilot in command.

Most GPS software, including FlightMaster, have simulation modes that let you learn their features while you're on the ground. Don't be tempted to try a feature that you've never used before while in flight just because the situation arises.

Visibility

An aircraft flew into the side of a hill in low cloud. The pilot had installed a Decca Navigator low down on the console between the two front seats, and was known to constantly tend to it in flight - this may have been a factor in the accident.

Ensure that the system components are secure and the display is visible without needing to have your head down in the cockpit.

The less head movement you have to do to refer to your GPS display, the better. This is the advantage that a PDA has over a panel-mounted system, as you can mount it above the instruments in most light aircraft. Not only does this allow you to quickly focus outside, but the lack of sideways and downwards head movements in IMC will help prevent disorientation.

Security & Cables

Ensure that all your power cables are plugged in, are clear of all aircraft controls & instruments, and that your cables & GPS won't come loose during flight.

Screen Glare

GPS screen glare is the bane of the VFR pilot. The sun has a nasty habit of rendering your screen unreadable.

Fit a PDA anti-glare screen protector. The ClearTouch Antiglare Screen Protector is a great product for reducing glare from your PDA screen in bright sunlight.

Last Updated on Tuesday, 16 September 2008 01:18

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FlightMaster Features

Terrain & Conflict display with four configurable maps
Four configurable timers and Voice Commands
HSI and Attitude Approximator
Waypoint search
Vertical Navigation
Omni-bearing selector
Track log
Obstacle Warnings
Turn Anticipation and Auto leg-advance
Night mode

FlightMaster Aviation GPS