They say knowledge is power. So, when it comes to understanding the potential of any new technology — what it is, how it works to improve your life, and what to do if something goes wrong, being as informed as possible is crucial.
At Tamarack Aerospace Group, we diligently pursue our mission to improve aviation technology and safety- ensuring that both pilots and passengers have the safest, most reliable flying experience. The WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program educates those who seek to learn more about our technology, its impact on flight planning, and how to further your experience. Taking this course is essential to flying confidently with Active Winglets. The WINGS course includes learning tools such as videos and testimonials from pilots, as well as comprehensive quizzes after each section to maximize retention. It is also accredited by the FAA and users may request credit upon completion and is intended to give those who fly a greater understanding of what Tamarack Active Winglets have to offer.
The course begins with a basic overview of wing aerodynamics, an important refresh for any seasoned pilot. In discussing aerodynamic terms such as induced drag and wingtip vortices, it explains the science of how the Active Winglets can help alleviate some of these issues. For example, when adding the extension on the wing, the aspect ratio is increased, which leads to better flight characteristics and less induced drag. The user will also understand the key differences between passive and Active Winglets, and how Active Winglet technology is designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, without the compromises inherent of passive winglets. To learn more about our products, click here.
Knowing the technology that monitors the Active Winglets is also essential to understanding how they work. The revolutionary Active Technology Load Alleviation System, or ATLAS, is the “active” part of Tamarack’s Active Winglets. This is the autonomous system that controls the TACS, or Tamarack Active Camber Surfaces that change the lift distribution as needed. The WINGS course will also describe all the components of the Active Winglet system and what role each plays in the operation, and how this makes the wings more efficient.
It is helpful for the pilot of an aircraft with Active Winglets to be aware of all the changes installed on the airplane. In this course, the user will learn details about the installation process from the various electrical units to the wingtip navigation lights. In the cockpit, three circuit breakers and the ATLAS INOP button are installed in the instrument panel, and the pilot will need to know the uses for each. Additionally, there are extra steps in the pre-flight inspection to ensure the Active Winglets and the ATLAS system are operating correctly.
Finally, the course will review safety and emergency procedures. Adding Active Winglets essentially alters your plane and the way it flies, so it is crucial to be aware of troubleshooting procedures and the steps to recover.
The WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program has been very successful, and many pilots feel far more confident flying with Active Winglets after taking the course and learning more about the technology. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we recommend all who are interested in installing Active Winglets to take this course. We are committed to continuous improvement of not only ourselves but our technology and supporting our customers. For more information or questions about our technology, please reach out to us here.
