The Right Gear for Flying With Passengers

While regulations may require some passenger gear to be carried on board an aircraft, other articles can help keep your flying companion relaxed at altitude. Let’s explore the necessary and convenient gear that is always a good idea to carry aboard an aircraft when passengers are present.

While requirements for necessary gear vary based on the aircraft type and operations being conducted, the following items can be essential for keeping passengers safe and comfortable during the flight or in an emergency.

Best of: Emergency equipment

Reliable life vests are crucial when conducting flight operations near or over water. In the event of water ditching, the Belt Pack Life Vest eliminates the need to search for the life preserver. This life vest features a custom storage pack that fits around the waist like a belt. In addition, its ergonomic design conforms to the wearer’s body, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. This personal flotation device (PFD) operates through manual inflation and expands to provide 35-pound buoyancy, which is sufficient for most adults.

When conducting overwater flight operations with a small child, it is essential to remember to protect them, too, with this Infant Twin-Cell Life Vest ($124.95).

Price: $99.95

Best of: Oxygen systems

The risk of hypoxia typically increases at altitudes above 10,000 feet, although symptoms can begin to appear at lower heights. The 2-Place Cannula Oxygen System by SkyOx is a portable oxygen system designed to enhance safety, improve passenger comfort, and increase the utility of the aircraft when flying at higher altitudes. SkyOx oxygen systems are feature rich, user friendly, and of the highest quality. Consequently, with these systems available on board, the risks of experiencing the severe and often difficult-to-detect symptoms of hypoxia are significantly reduced.

Price: Starting at $630 plus free custom carrying bag

Best of: Electronic equipment

Consistent access to reliable power is essential in today’s digital cockpit. Therefore, the Dual Digital Power Bank Backup Battery is the perfect one-stop solution for charging all portable electronic devices in the aircraft. This 10,000 mAh power bank features a built-in AC plug, Lightning and USB-C cables, and two USB ports. It features SCP and PD fast charging and can power up to two devices simultaneously.

Price: $39.99

Best of: Headsets

General aviation aircraft can be noisy. Therefore, a quality headset can assist passengers in noise reduction, provide hearing protection, support communication, and allow for comfort and enjoyment during the flight. The David Clark H10-13.4 Headset offers reliable noise reduction, is lightweight, and features a highly durable design. Weighing just 16.5 ounces, the headset includes a super-soft, double-foam head pad and under-cut gel ear seals. Additionally, it has a volume control knob and a flexible boom microphone, among other features. Backed by David Clark’s renowned reputation for quality and service, this headset provides excellent value for passenger use.

When flying with a four-legged copilot, it is essential to remember to protect their hearing, too, with these 4Paws Aviation Dog Ear Muffs ($75.00).

Price: $359.95

Best of: Motion sickness items

Experiencing motion sickness in a small aircraft is a common and unpleasant occurrence among many passengers. Therefore, the Better Barf Bag is made from thick, heat-sealed plastic, designed to contain unpleasant liquids effectively. It features a zippered, leak-resistant top that ensures secure sealing, while the gusseted bottom increases the bag’s capacity and provides a stable base. Additionally, the bag’s dark color helps to conceal its contents and save the aircraft occupants from embarrassment.

Price: $8.50

The following are some recommended items for flying with passengers to ensure a calm and enjoyable experience.

Best of: Organizational tools

Staying organized with passengers on board is essential to a smooth flight. The Flight Gear Cooler Caddy is on the FLYING list of the best new gear for the new year. The caddy keeps beverages and snacks cold while keeping gear organized. It has a leak-proof main compartment, two built-in beverage holders, and an assortment of exterior pockets. The multifunctional cockpit organizer also has cleated feet to reduce sliding, a tablet/smartphone holder, and a convenient carry handle.

Price: $34.95

Best of: Flashlights

It is essential not to leave passengers in the dark during night operations. Therefore, this Charter Ops Flashlight by Flight Outfitters is a versatile, user-friendly flashlight with a color-selector dial that effortlessly toggles between white, red, green, and blue illumination options. It is USB rechargeable, has a three-hour running time, and contains a zoomable head. It is water resistant, lightweight at just half a pound, and has a built-in SOS feature.

Price: $59.95

Best of: Cozy gear

Dressing appropriately for a flight is easier said than done, as temperatures can vary significantly with altitude changes. With its lightweight and compact design, the Gravel Layover Ultra-Compact Packable Down Blanket is perfect for keeping passengers comfortable during flying adventures at any altitude. The blanket is crafted from soft, insulating materials, machine washable for easy care, and easily convertible into a pillow. It contains neck snaps for hands-free napping, an insulated foot pouch for keeping feet warm, and a microfleece-lined sleeve for keeping hands cozy.

Price: $99.99

Best of: Hygiene items

Small, general aviation planes usually lack the luxury of an onboard bathroom. Therefore, it is a good idea to have an alternative solution for passengers in a bathroom emergency. The Travel John is an absorbent pouch that turns urine into gel instantly while simultaneously destroying bacteria and odor. It is easy for men, women, and children to use while sitting or standing. It is a convenient, sanitary, and compact pouch that holds up to 28 ounces of contents.

Price: $44.95

Best of: Sunglasses

Although the views at altitude can be breathtaking, the bright sun can often cause eye strain and discomfort. Therefore, an extra pair of sunglasses can quickly mitigate the sun’s harmful effects on passengers. The Flight Gear Captain’s Sunglasses are lightweight, durable, and have nonpolarized lenses. Additionally, the iconic aviator style provides ultimate eye coverage and sun protection.

Price: $89.95

While the items mentioned are necessary and convenient, additional items should be considered based on federal regulations and your unique circumstances. Ultimately, passenger gear should be selected based on the aircraft type, operations conducted, and each passenger’s specific needs.

On longer flights, passengers should have access to drinks and snacks, a first-aid kit, and sanitary items. Finally, an emergency briefing should be conducted before each takeoff so that every passenger knows where emergency equipment is located and how to use it.

We hope you found this rundown helpful in making your next flying adventure safe and comfortable for your passengers.

What items must be in a plane when flying with a passenger?

When flying with a passenger, the items required to be in a plane depend on the type of aircraft being flown and the operations being conducted. General aviation operations follow separate rules from commercial operations and require different equipment to be carried with passengers. Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is the principal set of rules issued by the Department of Transportation and FAA.

What rules regulate gear when flying with passengers?

Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is the principal set of rules issued by the Department of Transportation and FAA. These regulations outline the gear requirements when flying with passengers based on the type of aircraft being flown and the operations being conducted.

What is a pilot responsible for when flying with a passenger?

The pilot is responsible for ensuring the appropriate equipment is on board the aircraft when flying with passengers and briefing them before each takeoff on where emergency equipment is located and how to use it.