Jim Davis

Flight Tests

This little black book is the ultimate guide to passing your flight test. At just 60 pages, Flight Tests is one of the most clear and concise guides you will find on the fundamentals of flying. Jim himself has been training and testing pilots for 40 years, so he knows that many fail just because they don’t know what to expect on the day. Jim started his instructing career in South Africa at country flying clubs and went onto training military pilots in the SAAF Commando Squadron. Jim also started 43 Air School, the first full-time, live-in civilian flying school in Africa. His list of credentials is impressive.

Jim’s relaxed style of writing will make flight study a more pleasant experience. It is simply a must-read for anyone new to flying or anyone needing a refresh before their flight test. To quote the opening page of the book, “if you do what it says you will pass the test and be a safer pilot – and we’ll all be happy.” The book will step you through each exercise of the flight test – take-offs, turns, stalls, landings, weather and everything in between. It’s full of handy hints and tips so you can feel confident going into your flight test. Any keen student can read Jim’s book cover to cover in an afternoon and is by far one of the best investments you will make on your flying journey.

Flight Tests is available in hard copy or on Kindle and is held in very high regard by the aviation community. Don’t miss out on flying insights from one of the world’s best and most dedicated flight trainers.

$20 from jimdavis.com.au

Best Tugs

Alpha A1 Portable Tug

The Alpha A1 portable tug can push up to 1180kg with its powerful single motor. This technology is an industry game-changer, with its revolutionary folding design and autothrottle technology making it very portable and easy to manoeuvre. The tug comes installed with software optimised for your very own plane and its hybrid system allows your tug’s motor to recharge on the go, extending the life of the battery. Its colour can even be customised to match your plane!

View/order online besttugs.com

The Claw

C-100 Aircraft Anchoring System

Batten down the hatches! This aircraft anchoring system has been developed by avid pilots to protect your aircraft from damaging winds. This kit includes its own patented Claw® anchors – a lightweight, high-strength earth anchoring system that can withstand around 500kg of force. It’s easy to install and includes three Claw® anchors, nine spikes, nine metres of rope and a hammer.

$372.37 from amazon.com.au

Digitech

Digital Weather Station

Calling all weather geeks! This wireless digital weather station has everything you need to keep an eye on the elements. The 5-in-1 sensor has a range of 150 metres and includes its own self-emptying rain collector, anemometer, wind vane, temperature and humidity sensors. It can also remember data from a specific time range you’d like to monitor and you can even set alerts for when high or low weather criteria are met, helping to forecast unfavourable weather.

$299 AUD from jaycar.com.au

Trintec

6” Altimeter Instrument Style Clock

Under time pressure? This Tritec Altimeter Instrument wall clock will make you feel like you’re back in the air and transforms any room into a cockpit. It is a great accessory for your office space or home – perhaps even as a gift for a fellow aviation enthusiast.

$59.95 from flightstore.com.au

LEATHER UP

We know that anything that lives in the confines of an aircraft can get a little rough around the edges – torn pages in your log book, tangled cords and if you’re really unlucky, a spilt drink all over the cockpit whilst mid-air. Protecting your possessions with durable gear is one way to keep your important documentation intact and is also an opportunity to add a touch of elegance to your flying accessories. Tassie-based company, VIVABVKER specialises in aviation-inspired leather pieces that are crafted by hand and personalised just for you. All of their products are made to last and strike the perfect balance between practicality and style. If you have a keen aviator in your life (or simply feel like spoiling yourself), we’ve compiled some of their most popular leather accessories that you should be on your radar.

VIVABVKER

Personalised Licence Cover

These bespoke licence covers are bound with the finest Italian leather and can be personalised with your name, initials or licence number. Each cover is 100% hand cut to the size of a standard green CASA licence holder and are saddle stitched using Vinymo waxed nylon thread for a highend finish. Follow @vivabvker on Instagram check out how they make these beautiful pieces by hand.

$139 from vivabvker.com

VIVABVKER

Logbook Cover

No two logbook covers are the same from VIVABVKER. All leather-bound covers are made-to-order and can be personalised with your details stamped on the front. There are a variety of leather and stitch colours to choose from, so you’ll be proud to stow your log book in a place where everyone can admire it. All of their covers are made to fit the standard Aviation Theory Centre Australian Logbook.

$219 from vivabvker.com

VIVABVKER

Leather Headset Bag

Treat yourself to a stylish leather headset bag by VIVABVKER. Made from durable, high quality leather, these beauties offer excellent padded protection and are the perfect storage solution for your headset. The double zipper bag has another seven internal pockets to accommodate your daily flying essentials such as a notebook, tablet and your aviation licence. These bags have been designed to fit most popular headsets including BOSE, Zulu and David Clarks. The great design and durable water buffalo leather will keep your belongings protected for many years to come. Dimensions: 310mm x 210mm x 160mm

$149 from vivabvker.com