Tips for using the new ForeFlight 8

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21 Comments
ForeFlight received at lot of attention at Oshkosh this year when it previewed version 8 of its industry-leading app. That update, a major release, is now available in the App Store and it adds a number of new features and refinements. Let's explore what's changed and go over a few tips to take advantage of the latest tools.
iPad Pro in airplane

Poll: what’s your backup?

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2 Comments
From a legal standpoint, most GA pilots don't need a backup when using it as the sole source of aviation charts in the cockpit, but backup paper charts or bringing a second iPad is cheap insurance. So we want to know, what type of backup do you bring along with you, if any at all?

Understanding latitude and longitude in aviation apps

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Even with all of our modern aviation databases, sometimes you just can't beat a lat/lon coordinate. Let's review the basics of latitude and longitude and the different types of coordinates. Which one works on your iPad?

Take control of your iPad’s location services settings

The iPad's software settings allows you to customize which apps can use your location to improve the user experience. While this is essential for moving map navigation apps in the airplane, you'll find that it's not necessarily important for all types of apps to be able to access this data. Here we'll show you how to customize these settings to improve your iPad's battery life.
FAR/AIM app

FAR/AIM app updated for 2017, adds drone rules

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This is the time of year when 2017 FAR/AIM books are released, incorporating all the changes in the last 12 months. That makes it a great time to consider an app - for less than the price of one new book, you can have an app that never expires.

3 tips for checking ADS-B Out performance

While ADS-B Out avionics are pretty simple to operate (they're basically just upgraded transponders), it is important to ensure your system is working properly. Simply choosing the wrong setting during installation can lead to significant errors, and we've heard a number of stories where this has happened. Fortunately, it's free and easy to check.

iPad connected panel buyer’s guide

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More and more connected panel options are starting to hit the market, allowing you to wirelessly connect your iPad to panel-mount GPS and ADS-B receivers. Here we'll run down all the avionics options and review app compatibility.

iPad preflight tip: verify your charts are downloaded

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3 Comments
Having up-to-date charts on your iPad is easy with an app like ForeFlight or Garmin Pilot, but there's a trap if you're not careful. Because there is no internet connection in the airplane, you must download the chart databases before you go flying. This is not always as obvious as you might think.

Installed USB charging ports offer a long-lasting solution to battery anxiety

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2 Comments
For aircraft owners looking for a more permanent charging solution, there are some great options now available. Mid-Continent Instruments, a respected manufacturer of avionics, has a variety of dual USB charging devices that can be permanently installed to provide full-time access to power for portable devices.

New weather app provides interactive forecast maps

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5 Comments
A new weather app called Weekend Flyer provides an interactive map that allows you to view the aviation weather forecast for airports across the U.S. for up to 3 days out. This is a great resource when heading out for a weekend trip to get a feel for what the weather will be like on the flight back home.
iFDR Panel Mount

New option for panel-mounting iPads may be the best yet

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2 Comments
iPad panel mounts have been around for years, but we think the latest designs from Guardian Avionics may be the best yet. These durable mounts are made from ABS plastic, and they mount to the panel with just four screws. The end result is very clean and professional installation.

Get current with new Flight Review app

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Sporty's recently re-released their popular Flight Review app with over 2 hours of all new HD video content, including new training on ADS-B, EFB/iPad use in the cockpit, angle of attack indicators, night flying and emergency procedures.