FREE-FLIGHT INSTRUMENTS
From solar-powered matchbox to full-spec comp machines, choosing the right vario for your trip is important
Not every pilot wants to travel with a full-weight instrument. As well as the weight, general travel insurance tends not to fully cover expensive electronics. Obviously full-spec instruments are best for flying competitions, but if you are going hike-and-fly, vol-biv or simply want to keep things simple while you travel, then light is often right. Fortunately there are lots of lightweight, low bulk, robust instruments that will work for most pilots. At their simplest these can be simple beepers, which register if you are going up or down. They can be the size of a key ring, clip on to a riser, and sit there for your whole trip. Many of them are solar-powered. The upside is they are cheap, easy to use and do the job, but they won’t have a screen or be able to record your flight. Further up the scale are units that can be paired with your smartphone
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CROSS COUNTRY TRAVEL GUIDE 2020 INSTRUMENTS
to make a fully-functioning vario/GPS that can track, record your flights and has a screen. You will need to factor in battery charging for your phone however, which can add weight. Above those are small all-inones. These cost more but are full of features, typically have a screen, and the battery will see you through a full day’s flying. Some can even be used as competition instruments. The latest developments in instrument technology is all around collision-avoidance and seeing where other aircraft – including your buddies – are in the sky. This can actually change the way you fly – you can see pilots climbing on your screen and go there! A top tip before travelling is to test your new device, either on the ground or, better, in the air. Get to grips with how it works before you get to take-off on a mission-critical day.
