Garmin GDL 49

[Pete of N978PB]

I'm considering having a GDL 49 installed in my aircraft.

Several months ago, Todd gave several informative posts about the GDL he installed in his 230SE.

Has anyone else had any experience and Todd, do you have any update thoughts about yours?

Also, since cost is always a key consideration, I'd be interested in the installed costs you folks have experience with, either for your GDL 49 or via a proposal you have received.

Many thanks,

Pete - 978PB

[Todd Peterson]

After having flown with the GDL 49 weather downlink for some time now I must admit that I am really fond of it. Jo is scheduled to be getting the GDL 49 installed in her 260SE as the information it provides is really priceless.

The true value is not only in the Nexrad information but in general weather information that one would normally have to get from Flight Watch. Ceilings, visibilities, wind in both a graphic and text format is really nice to have when flight conditions are not the best.

Cost seemed to be around $3,500 to $3,800. Very well worth the money in my opion. I have changed my view somewhat on the subscription service however. Unless a person flies a lot and in poor weather conditions I would go for the base plan for about $9.00 a month with a dollar a down load. I find that you use it intensely for a flight or two then you don't use it for a month or more, so I think that plan probably makes the most sense for me.