I was flying with a new first officer today and when we decided to rejoin from offshore to Kerteh International Airport using the ILS approach he took out a massive 10 pounder potential cockpit hazard out. It has been a long time since I last used a knee pad as most of the modern helicopters comes with a built in chart holder which is lighted. However if you insist to use a knee pad the design below is better than any knee pad purchased from Pilot s Shop. I borrowed this design from the US Army Aviators 38 th Group when they came for an audit of our Squadron way back in the early 80s
This looks simple enough. My mother in law sew this up for me about 30 years ago. Get some velcro, a transparent plastic and a bit of cloth from your old uniform will do. Even if you don't know how to sew it can still be done!
When it is done ( maybe about 10 minutes work) you just strap it on your knees and it is now a useful gadjet for flying. As there are no metal parts it will not affect your magnetic compass. There are also no rigid plates to obstruct the controls of the helicopter.
At the end of the flight all you have to do is to fold it like a small handkerchief and chuck it in the nav bag. The patent for this tool is still pending. However if you want to make one for yourself I can send you a detailed drawings and measurements....Just deposit RM 50 to my Maybank Account 8211969
This looks simple enough. My mother in law sew this up for me about 30 years ago. Get some velcro, a transparent plastic and a bit of cloth from your old uniform will do. Even if you don't know how to sew it can still be done!
When it is done ( maybe about 10 minutes work) you just strap it on your knees and it is now a useful gadjet for flying. As there are no metal parts it will not affect your magnetic compass. There are also no rigid plates to obstruct the controls of the helicopter.
At the end of the flight all you have to do is to fold it like a small handkerchief and chuck it in the nav bag. The patent for this tool is still pending. However if you want to make one for yourself I can send you a detailed drawings and measurements....Just deposit RM 50 to my Maybank Account 8211969
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