Purchasing items prior to start date

ATP Admissions, Housing & Finance Questions
1

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!

2

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.

3

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!

4

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

5

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

6

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

7

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.

8

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!