Frequently Asked Questions

What does ASA stand for in aviation?

ASA stands for Aviation Supplies & Academics, Inc. The company has been in business since 1940 and is one of the largest producers of pilot supplies in the United States. Pilots know ASA best for its FAA test prep, training manuals, and official handbooks, but it also manufactures logbooks, flight bags, kneeboards, and flight planning tools.

Is ASA good for studying for FAA exams?

Yes. ASA is a longtime, widely used publisher of FAA knowledge test prep and oral exam guides, and many flight schools build their ground school around ASA materials. Its test prep books, the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, and the FAR/AIM align with FAA references, which is why students and instructors rely on them for knowledge tests and checkrides.

What ASA products do student pilots need first?

Most student pilots begin with an E6B flight computer, a current FAR/AIM, and the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, plus a logbook to record flight time. A kneeboard and a flight bag keep everything organized. ASA also sells complete student and private pilot kits that bundle these core items together for a simple starting point.

What is the difference between the CX-3 and a manual E6B?

The ASA CX-3 is an electronic flight computer that solves wind, time, fuel, and weight-and-balance problems by menu. A manual E6B is a circular slide rule you work by hand. Many flight schools and the FAA knowledge test expect you to use a manual E6B, so a lot of pilots own both: the manual model for training and the CX-3 for speed.

Does ASA make gear besides books?

Yes. Beyond study guides and handbooks, ASA manufactures logbooks, AirClassics flight bags and backpacks, kneeboards, E6B and CX-3 flight computers, plotters, IFR training hoods, fuel testers, carbon monoxide detectors, and even passive headsets. You can outfit much of a pilot's kit with ASA alone.

What else do I need to outfit the cockpit?

Along with your ASA books and an E6B, most pilots carry a kneeboard for charts and plans and a flight bag for headset, fuel tester, and reference books. Browse more pilot supplies and aviation gear to complete your flight bag.