Aircraft Supplies

A practical starter kit includes a tie-down system, a plexiglass-safe windshield cleaner and soft cloths, an oil additive for corrosion protection, and a carbon monoxide detector. From there, owners add a wash and wax kit, seat cushions, cockpit power and cooling, and a tablet mount as budget and missions allow.

Clean the exterior windshield and leading edges after most flights to remove bugs and grime, and give the airframe a full wash and wax every few months. Aircraft stored outside need cleaning more often than hangared ones, since UV and weather accelerate wear on paint and acrylic.

Flush the surface with water first to float off grit, then use a plexiglass-safe cleaner and a clean, soft cloth. Wipe in straight back-and-forth strokes that follow the airflow, never in circles, to avoid a glare-causing halo. Polish out any light scratches with an acrylic-safe product.

Avoid ammonia-based household glass cleaners such as Windex, along with paper towels and dry rags. Ammonia causes crazing, the network of fine cracks that clouds acrylic, and dry or abrasive cloths leave scratches. Use only cleaners labeled safe for aircraft plexiglass and a soft, clean cloth.

Yes. Securing the aircraft after every flight protects it from sudden winds and storms that can move or flip a parked airplane. Use anchors rated for the surface, point the nose into the prevailing wind for long stops, and inspect ropes and straps for wear before relying on them.

For airplanes parked outside, covers are usually worth it. They shield paint and interiors from UV fading, block rain and dust, and reduce how often you need to clean the aircraft. They also help keep cockpits cooler and protect windshields and seals from sun damage over time.