Entering the world of aviation is an exciting journey, but one that requires the right tools. As an aviation student, there are a number of essential items you'll need to get started. This article aims to guide you through the selection of your starter equipment, helping you make informed choices from the very beginning.

Essential Books

To start with, you'll need a solid foundation of knowledge. FAA publications such as the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK) and the Airplane Flying Handbook are indispensable resources. These manuals will give you a comprehensive overview of aviation theory and practice.

• Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK) - Covers a broad range of topics that are required knowledge for all pilots at any level, and a key reference for all the information necessary to operate an aircraft and to pass the FAA Knowledge Exam and Practical Test (checkride).
• Airplane Flying Handbook - Includes all of the information required by the FAA for in-flight operations and provides information and guidance on the procedures and maneuvers required for pilot certification.

For classroom learning, the Jeppesen Guided Flight Discovery (GFD) is a great resource. It essentially recaps the information in the FAA books but presents it in a digestible, classroom-friendly format.

In addition to these, you'll need a reliable logbook. We recommend the Gleim Pilot Logbook, which is user-friendly and durable.

Flight Bags

The first step to finding the right bag is understanding what you’ll be putting in it, and for that you’ll want to check out our pilot packing guide where we break down all of the essentials that should be in every flight bag.

And when you’re ready to pick a bag, here are some to consider:

• Brightline B7 Flight Pilot Bag - Accommodates one or two full-sized headsets, a complete set of charts, multiple iPads, a handheld radio, and essential accessories. It doubles as an excellent carry-on for commercial flights and serves as a versatile daily bag for various personal and professional needs.
• ASA AirClassics Trip Bag - Crafted for optimal functionality using robust ballistic nylon, wrap-around carry straps with anti-slip features, a sturdy reinforced bottom, appropriately sized pockets for convenience, vibrant contrasting color lining, and easily accessible open chart slots specifically tailored for pilots.
• ASA AirClassics Flight Bag - Crafted from resilient 600D polyester with water-repellent properties, this bag features robust, connectable comfort-grip handles, a detachable non-slip carry strap, durable zippers, and additional reinforcing straps for heightened strength.
• Flight Outfitters Lift XL Flight Bag - Offers ample storage capacity (accommodating two headsets) and enhanced organizational features while maintaining the distinctive design that makes Flight Outfitters bags cockpit-friendly.

For more bags, check out our entire selection of flight bags.

Aviation Headset

A pilot’s headset is one of their most important tools, and choosing the right one requires a bit of time and research.

There are many things to consider when selecting a headset, such as what type of aircraft you’ll be flying, the level of noise in your cockpit, whether or not you need Bluetooth, and more.

There’s too much to break down in just a few sentences. Fortunately, Marv Golden has already broken it all down for you in our Aviation Headset Guide. And when you’re ready to make your selection, check out our selection of aviation headsets.

Navigation Tools

Two navigation tools that all pilots need to learn to use are a plotter and an E6-B flight computer.

For the plotter, we recommend the ASA Ultimate Rotating Plotter as a reliable choice.

• ASA Ultimate Rotating Plotter - An affordable plotter that’s made out of durable material, ensuring it won’t break or warp under extreme pressure.

As for your E6-B flight computer, we recommend starting with the budget-friendly ASA Paper E6-B Flight Computer Once you’ve spent some time learning to use it, upgrade to the ASA CX-3 Electronic Flight Computer.

• ASA Paper E6-B Flight Computer - Made from solid, heavyweight fiberboard, and serves as an economical version of the aluminum model E6-B.
• ASA CX-3 Electronic Flight Computer - Delivers accurate results quickly and efficiently and can be used on all FAA and Canadian pilot, mechanic, and dispatcher knowledge exams.

Kneeboards

A kneeboard is a crucial accessory for keeping your notes and navigation tools handy during flights. The ASA VFR Kneeboard is a solid option for traditional use. If you prefer to use an iPad, there's the W-4 Kneeboard for iPads.

• ASA VFR Kneeboard - Durable brushed aluminum kneeboard that provides a strong surface for inflight note-taking as well as quick access to important VFR information in the form of a permanent placard.
• W-4 Kneeboard for iPads - Fits a wide variety of iPad models, and features a pocket for your E6B, 6 pencil holders, a pouch for your CEPs/earplugs, and a clear plastic strap that goes across your paper to keep it from flying away.

The Next Steps

Once you've got the basics covered, consider investing in a transceiver. This device will allow you to communicate with air traffic control and other pilots. Check out our transceiver guide for more information.

Remember, becoming a pilot is an investment, and these tools are just the starting point on your journey towards the skies. Choose wisely, and each piece of equipment will serve you well in the flight hours to come.