The E6B is the manual flight computer pilots have used for generations to solve time, speed, distance, fuel, wind, and conversion problems. Even in the tablet era it stays relevant: phone and tablet apps are not allowed in the testing center, and you will plan by hand throughout training. Here is what it does and which to buy.
Part of our pilot gear guide. E6Bs are at PilotMall.com.
What an E6B does
An E6B is a circular slide rule built for aviation. With it you can calculate ground speed and time en route, fuel burn, true airspeed and density altitude, wind correction angle and crosswind component, and unit conversions. It is a core part of cross-country flight planning and shows up throughout the knowledge test.
Paper, metal, or electronic?
- Paper or cardboard slide E6B: inexpensive and perfect for learning. Lightweight, though less durable over time.
- Metal circular E6B: the classic. Durable, smooth, and lasts a lifetime. A great keep-forever choice.
- Electronic E6B: solves problems by keypad. Fast, and a standalone electronic E6B is permitted in the FAA testing center (phone and tablet apps are not). Learning the manual version first builds the understanding examiners look for.
Which should a student buy?
Start with an inexpensive paper E6B to learn the concepts, or buy a metal one you will keep for your whole flying life. Either way, learn the manual E6B thoroughly. Examiners commonly ask you to work a planning problem by hand, and phone or tablet apps are not allowed in the testing center, though a standalone electronic E6B is.
Do you still need it with an app?
Yes. Electronic flight bag apps handle most planning in daily flying, but you cannot use a phone or tablet app in the testing center; you bring a mechanical or standalone electronic E6B, and you will plan by hand during training. Know the E6B cold, then use whatever you like once you are certificated.
What you'll need
E6B options from PilotMall.com, from learn-on paper to keep-forever metal.
Frequently asked questions
What is an E6B used for?
Time, speed, distance, fuel burn, true airspeed, density altitude, wind correction, and unit conversions, the core math of flight planning.
Paper or metal E6B?
Paper is cheap and great for learning; metal is durable and lasts a lifetime. Both work the same way.
Do I need an E6B if I use ForeFlight or another app?
Yes. Phone and tablet apps are not allowed in the FAA testing center, but a mechanical or standalone electronic E6B is. Learn the manual E6B during training, then use an app once you are certificated.