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Avionics

AoA Upgrades: Standalone, Integrated

Frank Bowlin
Verified
That's the Safe Flight SCc AoA indexer on the glare shield of a Cessna Skyhawk in the lead photo. Like a stall warning tab, it measures AoA using a wing leading edge sensor.

You’ve heard the arguments—more stabilized and consistent approaches and landings, more confidence while maneuvering, better aircraft control and less wear and tear on the airframe and the tires. Yes, an angle of attack system offers all these benefits. 

Are there any drawbacks? We haven’t found any. So, if you haven’t installed one, perhaps we can entice you with a fresh survey of the market.

Frank Bowlin

Frank Bowlin, CFI/CFII/MEI, ATP is the editor of IFR Magazine and has contributed to Aviation Consumer and Aviation Safety. Active since VORs were new, he's flown more than 40 types, ranging from B-something airliners down to J-something taildraggers. Today, he mostly flies his Cessna 340A over 100 hours a year for both business and pleasure.