Goodies and Gadgets - May 2012
BrightLine Bags New Modular “Flex System” Flight Bags
BrightLine Bags, Inc. has announced an entirely new modular flight bag system to replace its current market-leading flight bag design. The new product line, called “The FLEX System,” starts with the basic modular design concept that made the current BrightLine Bags flight bag so popular and then takes that same innovation and thoughtful engineering to a whole new level by creating an entire system that now contains five different-sized interchangeable modules, a front and rear end cap, and a collection of four interchangeable external pockets. The result is that for the first time, every individual pilot can create a customized bag that is the exact size and has the exact functionality he or she wants, according to the needs of their next flight.
BrightLine Bags has improved on their original idea of a single bag that can be divided into two smaller bags, by creating a system of eleven different parts that can be combined together in an almost countless number of configurations. Then to simplify the process, BrightLine Bags has established five standard bag configurations, ranging in size from extra small to extra large, to satisfy the most common flight bag scenarios. These basic configurations will address the majority of customer needs and will act as a starting point for each customer, since the option to come back later and add individual pieces, or create a custom configuration for a particular need, will always be available.
Ross Bishop, President of BrightLine Bags said, “We designed this system of modules and pockets to allow every pilot to – once-and-for-all – have a bag that actually works to control and organize their flight gear, no matter the nature of their next flight. We call this, ‘Adaptive Utility’”
Gone are the days of trying to fit your pilot flight gear into a non-conforming, pre-existing bag. The new FLEX System creates a powerful solution for all pilots by allowing customized bag configurations that work equally well for students or instructors, VFR or IFR conditions, even overnight or longer trips.
FLEX will begin shipping in late May 2012. For further information visit www.brightlinebags.com. See a video describing the bags at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J59Gt5_9SYs
New Valve Stem Access Panel
Many aircraft, in pursuit of speed and efficiency, are equipped with close-fitting wheel pants. They look great and lower wind resistance; but because they cover so much of the wheel, they can also make checking tire pressure inconvenient. Underinflated tires increase takeoff roll, degrade ground handling, make braking unpredictable, and can lead to rapid tire deterioration and even tire failure.
The solution is a small, light, but strong hatch that can give instant access to nearly any tire’s valve stem. Quick pressure checks and easy tire filling will make handling better and enhance safety.
The assembly, consisting of an aluminum frame, door, and quarter-turn fastener, can be installed without an STC on certified aircraft in the U.S. (and most other jurisdictions); and on experimentals worldwide. The frame is generally glassed in place, and the removable door is secured by the included fastener. The opening (2.5” square; the flange is 3” on a side), gives adequate clearance for a tire gauge or an air chuck, but is not so large that finding a good place to mount it can become a problem.
Scott Wick, President of Wicks Aircraft Supply that carries the access panel, says, “We are happy to find such an effective and elegant solution to such a common problem. These doors should save a lot of time and thus make actually checking the tire pressure part of many more preflights.”
This part is available through Wicks and the part number for a set is VSS01; the kit of three sells for $180. Since the door is not attached, it is possible that it might get lost sometime, so Wicks also offers a single replacement door (part number is VSP01) for $30.
For more information visit: www.wicksaircraft.com or call: Orders 1-800/221-9425 or Help Line: 618/654-7447. Email: info@wicksaircraft.com. Wicks Aircraft Supply is located at 410 Pine Street, Highland, IL 62249.
