Starbucks

I am trying to get my stuff together prior to training (and make a Christmas list ) and I see that it is recommended that we have (2) 3" jepp binders and (1) 1" binder or have (3) 2" binders and (1) 1" binder.

Am I missing something because it looks like Jepp only sells the 2" and 1" versions.

pscraig

The 3" binders are heavy and difficult to handle, I've always used 3 2" binders. The 1" binder is for frequently used charts-I keep the charts for the hubs (CLE, IAH, EWR) and a few high enroute charts in there.

If you really want 3" binders, Coyote Works and Scott Leather sell them. These companies also make other sizes. I particularly like the Coyote Works binders, they are soft leather and seem to be lighter in weight than others, plus the owners are fellow XJT pilots.

Starbucks

I've already got one 2" binder so I will probably just get two more then...thanks for the info.

Starbucks

Also, as far a luggage goes...what size do people recommend getting. It seems like many of the "crew" style bags are 22" - Is this a good size? I am looking at the luggage works 22" regal style and also their ballistic flight kit.

pscraig

The 22" is what most people, including myself use. Some, particularly commuters who need to pack for more days, like the 26" but it is heavy. Anything over 22" will pose a problem for deadheading or pass travel on CAL since it won't fit in the overhead compartment.

If anything I wish they had a 20".

The Luggageworks 22" Stealth NG is what I have and is worth every penny of the substantial price. You'll get lots of opinions on luggage, but I bought the best and have never worried about it breaking.

I had their ballistic flight kit and it was great for 2 years, then it fell apart. Under the ballistic nylon is essentially cardboard, and it got wet several times during the summer monsoon in Houston. The cardboard basically dissolved, leaving me with a duffel bag.

The leather flight kits are nice ( I have a Coyote Works bag) but are very expensive, and something you can get once you're off first year pay. Or they make nice Christmas presents.

Coyote Works comes to the new hire classes and does payroll deduct, so many new hires buy them once they get here.

yasir1212

Majority of the people here have 2-2" and 1-1" binders, stay clear of the 3" binders. As far as the flight cases go, you can just get about anything, I would go for the biggest you might be able to find with tons of storage space. Some will tell you that some cases don't fit, but almost every case fits in the space. As far as the luggage, stick to the 22" size. Don't go larger cause you'll have a hard time sticking it in the overhead compartments on CAL flights when deadheading, etc. and if you go smaller, you might have a tough time getting everything packed for 4 or 5 days at a time.

Starbucks

This was exactly the info I was needing...consider my Christmas list made!

anonymous

I know you already have your list made but if someone else is buying then I would add a leather flight bag either the Scott Round-top or Coyote Works both with saddle bad handles, they will last forever. I like the Scott since it opens from one side and gives easy access to all your junk. Also I use 2 3" Coyote binders for all the Jepps. Thats all. Works for me cuz I am lazy and hate having to pull out another binder. With two books there is a 50/50 chance you have the arrival airport out already. The FOM and CFM are combined into one binder in my bag and then I have an accent 2" Jepp binder that I put all the charts in using plastic sleevs. Finally I recommend the aviators map. Once you get on line you'll find out what works for you. Good luck!