Chart/Training Publisher Embraces The Tech Trend At OSH

Following the wave of new technology sweeping the grounds at OSH this year, Jeppesen announced a new series of GPS training courses -- and part 91 pilots can make the switch to electronic charts with a sense of security.

Look Ma, No Paper

The ink is still wet on the regulations, but pilots who came to Airventure 2007 on a paper chart and a heavy wallet can leave navigating on an electronic flight bag. Jeppesen partnered with the Federal Aviation Administration to produce AC91-78, USE OF EFB IN 14 CFR 91 OPERATIONS. The wording was finalized July 20, and the circular received its designation number the day of Jeppesen's announcement.

In short, the advisory curricular says Electronic flight bags and Electronics Charts Displays are interchangeable with their paper brethren - part 91 operators can make the switch to electronic charts with no worry of the Feds questioning the legality of the charts. Provided that pilots follow the AC to the letter, no specific FAA authorization is required.

"In the top three concerns operators voiced, one of them was legality," said Todd Krawczyk, Jeppesen director of Paper Navigation Services and General Aviation. "...This new AC will now give Part 91 pilots clear recommendations and specific guidelines for the use of electronic charts."

The AC also strongly suggests pilots have a backup in the cockpit, either in paper or electronic format. So -- don't expect ATC to be too sympathetic when you tell them the only set of batteries on board just expired.

Learning, But Not On The Fly

Jeppesen's E-Learning courses give pilots an opportunity to learn their avionics, thoroughly, without the gallons of avgas consumed by the way many pilots learn to use their GPS receivers -- heads-down in a cockpit while boring holes in the sky. These computer-based lessons combine narrative lessons with interactive emulation of the GPS units.

"These lessons don't stop in video mode? They allow users to participate in the lesson - and with that, learning soars over 70 percent retention," said Kert Thielen, Jeppesen training manager said. "Define, show, review, do - that's the key." "The Jeppesen E-Learning courses for avionics teach students how to look beyond the 'Direct To' functionality of their GPS systems and really master the many features they provide."

Courses offered include: GNS430W/530W: Basic VFR and IFR - $159.95; Advanced IFR - $139.95. Garmin G1000: Available fourth quarter, 2007 Handheld GPS courses for the Garmin 196/296/396/496 and Lowrance Airmap 2000c, 1000c, and 500c range in price from $49.95 to 69.95.

FMI: www.flyelectronic.net, FAA Advisory Circulars Page, www.jeppesen.com