Been reading lots recently about ground proximity detectors, landing
gear down indicators and electronic door 'shoot bolt' warning equipment
etc etc.
I too am facinated by electronics but personally don't think these
things are generally justified in an aircraft like the Europa.
John Tye's original aircraft had none these, and a very straightforward
panel. Consequently there was very little to go wrong. It was lighter,
cheaper and very probably slightly faster.
Some of my standard checks when flying are:
Visually check gear is fully down and located, visually check door shoot
bolts located front and back, visually check location and distance to
ground !
In the UK we aren't supposed to fly at night or in IFR conditions in
this aircraft. Perhaps in other countries the rules are slightly
different ?
A very strong case could be made for keeping equipment on board as
simple as possible.
I apologise if this sounds provocative and certainly don't want to start
a long thread on this or a 'flame'.
... just expressing an alternate point of view which I suspect is shared
by many !
Alan
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