Best of Aviation

The view from the pilot's seat in a Mooney Eagle. This is very basic so-called "steam gauge" instrumentation, but it's proven technology.

GPS has literally changed the way we fly. Even the most basic of GPS units provide extremely accurate position data, which contributes to exceptional situational awareness.

A panel typical of a 5-year-old Cessna Skyhawk (Model 172), which sports four seats and a 180HP engine. The latest Skyhawks come with full "glass" panels. Cost? About $225K new, but many used examples are available for far less.

An example of the latest navigation technology in a modern Cessna 182, which is the Skyhawk's big brother. Well known for its load hauling ability more than its speed the 182 is one of the most popular personal aircraft on the market.

This is the "multi-function display" portion of the Garmin G1000 avionics suite, pictured here in a Cessna 182. This shows our current position (Nashua, NH) with vivid clarity.

The primary flight display of the Garmin G1000 avionics suite combines solid state accelerometers and an air data computer to generate a picture of the aircraft's attitude about the three axes of flight (pitch, roll, and yaw).

The Piper Seminole is powered by two 180HP piston engines similar to the one that powers the Skyhawk. The Seminole is the industry's most popular multi-engine trainer, but it makes a fine personal aircraft as well.

A step above the Seminole in Piper's product lineup, the Seneca boasts twin turbocharged, fuel injected 220HP engines, a 160Knot (about 185 MPH) cruise speed, and a panel large enough to install virtually any avionics gear needed.

My camera takes horrible night pictures, but I think this captures the beauty of night flying in a populated area. Off the left wing is the city of Philadelphia.