Navigation exams
Thread Starter
Join Date: Mar 2019
Location: UK
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Navigation exams
Why is it that the CAA require the use of 1950’s slide rule technology in exams, and not alllow electronic calculators? Calculators have been allowed in O and A level exams (or whatever they are called these days) for 40 years. They are plentiful, reliable, more accurate, easier to use, far more likely to be used in a cockpit than a wizz wheel once licence obtained.
Do they not allow 4-function calculators for things like weight and balance computation? Electronic wind calculators cost a lot more than a cardboard E6B, and you won't ever use one after the test. I teach my students how to use the E6B because I want them to be able to visualize the wind effects.
They used to allow electronic calculators in the PPL exam, but not programmable ones.
I used one when regaining my PPL in 1987.
I had used a mechanical slide rule in 1964, but found regaining familiarity not worth the effort, as it was easier to calculate using trig.
If you're using an electronic calculator daily, and are familiar with trig, check the legality.
Their cheap, if you don't already have access to one.
I used one when regaining my PPL in 1987.
I had used a mechanical slide rule in 1964, but found regaining familiarity not worth the effort, as it was easier to calculate using trig.
If you're using an electronic calculator daily, and are familiar with trig, check the legality.
Their cheap, if you don't already have access to one.
Last edited by Maoraigh1; 30th Mar 2019 at 21:45. Reason: Add
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: yes
Posts: 174
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
In the air does anyone use calculators or CRPs? Even before GPS rule of thumb was the way to go. That and IFR. I follow roads. I dedicatedly learned the 1 in 60 rule. In real life I never used it once.
Or just point the nose into wind until, where you want to go to, is at a constant bearing..?
I always liked my Slide Rule, as you could see multiple answers at the same time.. eg. litres to gallons. A calculator only gives one answer.
I always liked my Slide Rule, as you could see multiple answers at the same time.. eg. litres to gallons. A calculator only gives one answer.
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: Down at the sharp pointy end, where all the weather is made.
Age: 74
Posts: 1,684
Likes: 0
Received 3 Likes
on
3 Posts
Why is it that the CAA require the use of 1950’s slide rule technology in exams,
Likewise, UK driving schools all use manual gear change cars...
My wife had one of these fancy and expensive electronic flight calculators. One day, we were planning a trip and I gave her a race, to see who would be finished sooner in preparing our Plog. I won easily with my trusty CRP 5, but then I teach with it daily.
Apparently, in the Far East, clerks with an abacus can do quicker calculations than the average Joe with and electronic calculator.
TOO