E6B or CX-3?
Learning to fly, while quite rewarding, it is also challenging. There are many new subject areas to learn about from aircraft systems to aviation weather and many more exciting topics. When we have the option to simplify our learning and understanding we should take those opportunities. One of the questions I get asked frequently when new pilots are enrolling is whether to purchase an E6B or CX-3. My response is always “absolutely”. Buying a CX-3 will be worth the investment.
Is it worth the investment?
I believe so. Although most kit already come with an E6B Flight Computer, I would highly recommend people to invest in the digital CX-3. Here is why. Learning to use the E6B requires practice, an understanding of what answer you are expected to get. While there are tuns of videos on YouTube, including some we have made as well. You will still spend time with an instructor trying to figure it out. That time with an instructor depending on your school can range from $50-90 per hour. In the end the $20 E6B ends up costing a lot more to learn than the initial cost of the CX-3.
Can’t I just use my smartphone?
Now most people look at me funny and say, well if it is just a digital calculator, can I just download an app and use it on my phone? Yes, but you can’t use your phone when you go take your written tests. This is the only reason why this product still exists today.
I want to learn the traditional way.
Learning the “basics” or the “traditional way” sounds great but do that once you are a licensed pilot. If you are curious in expanding your understanding, then go for it. If we keep this mentality of learning the way it was taught in the 40s then we might as well still follow fires for navigation. We need to push aviation forward and learn new ways, new technologies.
