Skip to main content

Cockpit Controls and Interior Overview

8:40
15:28
22.6K views

At 8:40 in

I bought an Airplane...but it's not what you think!

What happens here

The creator opens the cockpit door to give a tour of the interior. He points out the instrument panel, referred to as the 'six-pack,' which includes gauges for RPM, fuel pressure, oil pressure, and fuel level. He indicates the throttle, which moves in and out to control engine power, and the mixture control, a red knob used for engine shutdown (full lean). Other controls shown include switches for cabin heat, defroster, and cabin air vent. He demonstrates the rudder pedals, used for steering the airplane on the ground (linked to the nose wheel) and for yaw control in the air. He also highlights the brake handle, which can be locked for parking, and the manual flap lever, which extends the flaps to increase lift for slower flight. He demonstrates how the trim wheel adjusts the horizontal stabilator for pitch control, showing how moving it up or down affects the nose position. The presenter notes the compact size of the cabin, emphasizing that it's a tight squeeze for two larger individuals, and also mentions how hot the cabin can get due to a greenhouse effect, especially without air conditioning. He concludes by reiterating the strict inspection process required for certified aircraft when making modifications, such as reupholstering the seat.

Goal: Familiarize viewers with the airplane's cockpit layout, primary flight controls, and interior features.

Tools and materials

  • Brake Handle — Applying brakes and parking
  • Cabin Heat Control — Activating cabin heating
  • Cabin Vent Control — Allowing air into the cabin
  • Defroster Control — Activating window defroster
  • Flap Lever — Manually extending wing flaps
  • Instrument Panel — Displaying crucial flight and engine information
  • Mixture Control — Adjusting the fuel-air mixture and killing the engine
  • Piper PA-28-180 Airplane Piper — The aircraft containing the cockpit being toured
  • RAM Mount RAM Mount — Holding a tablet or other electronic device in the cockpit
  • Rudder Pedals — Steering the aircraft on the ground and controlling yaw in the air