E6B Flight Computer

When I first heard about a "flight computer" early in my flight training, I was excited to think that basic flight planning would involve a computer. I am a child of technology, after all. When I first saw an E6B, however, I was a bit confused. This was a computer? Where was the mouse?

I did this model for my book (see sidebar). What I like best about it is that you can actually use it for flight planning! I made sure the markings were spot-on accurate, and the geek inside of me was thrilled to be able to animate the entire process of using the E6B. No, in case anyone asks, I don't use this 3D model for flight planning. ;)