Pilot Starter Pack

Legally required · EASA-compliant

Every flight, every landing and every notable event goes in your logbook. It is legally required and needed at your skill test. Choose an EASA-compliant logbook with columns for dual, solo and instrument time.

Essential for Navigation & Performance

The E6B is an analogue slide rule you may use in every exam. Required for calculating headings, ground speed, fuel, density altitude and more. Buy it early. You will need practice.

For VFR chart work and exams

A plotter lets you measure headings and distances on VFR charts. You use it at the navigation exam and during cross-country flights. Choose a model with an nm scale and protractor.

Your most important purchase as a pilot

A good headset protects your hearing, reduces cockpit noise and makes communication clear. Required in the aircraft. The David Clark H10-13.4 is the classic beginner choice: robust, comfortable and proven. Premium: Bose A20 ANR (~€1,100). Tip: ask your flight school if they lend headsets for your first hours.

Writing in the cockpit

A kneeboard straps to your thigh and provides a writing surface in the cockpit. Essential for writing down ATC instructions, ATIS information and your navlog during cross-countries. Choose a model with rings to hold your nav log.

Non-polarised lenses only

You need good sunglasses in the cockpit, especially during slant visibility and above cloud layers. Important: do NOT choose polarised lenses. They make LCD displays unreadable and can distort cockpit window panels.

The EFB standard in general aviation

The iPad mini is the most-used EFB in European VFR aviation. Compact enough for the cockpit, powerful enough for SkyDemon, ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot. Choose the WiFi + Cellular model (not WiFi-only) so you get live NOTAMs, weather and AIP updates outside WiFi range. Pair with a RAM Mount for secure in-cockpit attachment.

Carry everything neatly

A good flight bag has pockets for your logbook, charts, headset and checklist. Not immediately essential (a backpack works too), but useful as you accumulate more gear. Look for a headset compartment and rigid base.

For dead reckoning and exam planning

During cross-country flights you need a timer for dead reckoning (checking timing to stay on track). A simple digital wrist stopwatch is enough. No smartwatch needed. A basic sport chronograph works fine.

Secure iPad mounting in the cockpit

A RAM X-Grip holder with suction cup securely attaches your iPad mini to the dashboard or window of the training aircraft. Essential if you actively use SkyDemon in flight. Always check that your flight school permits mounting devices in the aircraft. The X-Grip fits iPad mini and larger tablets.

Record your flights for debriefing and memories

A GoPro Hero 13 or DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro records your flights in 4K. Ideal for self-analysis: review your procedures, R/T errors and landing technique with your instructor. Mount on the dashboard or airframe — always get your school's permission. Both models are waterproof with built-in stabilisation.