Purchasing items prior to start date

Hi guys

Purchasing my big items that aren’t included such as headset, etc.

My start date is Nov 11 and I have a few questions about what I’m about to drop money on.

  • For the VFR sectional chart I’m given the option of purchasing the current chart (expires Jan 30, 2020) or the next chart. Which one should I go for? All going well I believe I’ll be done with my PPL by 1/30/20 so I’m thinking the current one is the way to go?

  • Is the view limiting device required for the PPL or can I hold off on buying that until I reach my instrument training?

  • Is the travel bag initially necessary or would current and past students recommend the backpack ATP provided? I plan on eventually buying one but I’m seeing this as an unnecessary expense starting out.

Cheers!

The sectional is only a few bucks so I would get the current and get a new one when it expires. I’m starting commercial and I have only ever used the ATP backpack and a small duffel for when I went on crew. And the VIew limiting device is required for private. You need 3 hours of simulated instrument for your PPL and you will also need it for your checkride.

Hey guys,

I just ran across this thread and figured I’d ask a quick question about iPad requirements. I found through ATP’s website that they recommend at least 128GB of storage but when I took my admissions flight (a little over a week ago) my instructor told me that the 64GB was plenty of storage.

Any current or past students have any recommendations on this?

As always, thanks!

Also,

I saw where they recommend either the iPad Pro or iPad mini, not the iPad Air. Is there any specific reason for that?

Alden

Alden,

The iPad page on ATP’s website probably needs to be updated. Focus on the dimensions. Anything 9.8” x 6.8” or smaller will work. Most have the mini. Some prefer something a little larger. Choose whichever one you like. Where did you see 128GB? I’ve never seen that. Last I saw 64GB is what is recommended.

Tory

I have the iPad Air 2 and it being full size isn’t a problem. A good kneeboard holding it definitely makes it better.

You probably saw Foreflight’s buying guide that suggests the 128GB.

As for which one that really depends on the person. I love my Mini4 but another student at my location loves his full size one.

My suggestion would be to see if there are the 2 types you’re interested in at your TC and see if they will let you borrow it for a flight and try them out to see which is more comfortable and suited better for you.

Everyone,

Thanks for all the replies! And yes, Tom, I did see the 128GB on Foreflight’s buying guide. It sounds like it all really depends on personal preference. I may try and get two different types of iPads on my next flight to see which one I enjoy more.

Thanks!