iPad Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the differences between the models of iPads currently available from Apple?
- What are the internal storage options and how much do I really need?
- What is the difference between the Wifi-only iPad and the iPad with LTE?
- I have iPad LTE – do I still need an external GPS?
- I bought an iPad LTE – do I need to activate the wireless service for the internal GPS to work?
- What are my options for adding an external GPS?
- What wireless connection type does the Dual, Garmin and Bad Elf Pro use to connect to the iPad?
- Do I need an LTE model to get Bluetooth?
- What is the difference between WiFi and Bluetooth?
- When I put the iPad in Airplane Mode the Bluetooth GPS will not connect to the iPad. What’s wrong?
- Do the external GPS receivers work on iPhone and iPod Touch as well?
- How do I know the external GPS is providing me location information?
- Do the external GPS receivers decrease iPad battery life when in use?
- Can I add in-flight weather to the iPad?
- Can I legally use the iPad as a replacement for paper charts for VFR or IFR flight?
- Is the iPad a reliable paper chart replacement?
- How do I update my apps?
- What options do I have for getting charts outside the US?
- What is the typical iPad battery life?
- Can I charge the iPad from my airplane’s 12v-24v plug?
- I don’t have a power source in my airplane – what are other options for backup power?
- What are the main ways people are mounting iPads in the cockpit?
- What are my options for securing an iPad in my lap in the cockpit?
- I want to use the RAM Cradle – do I have to remove my iPad’s protective cover each time?
- What options are available for reducing screen glare in the cockpit?
- What about Android apps?
- Where can I find more information on flying with the iPad?
What are the differences between the models of iPads currently available from Apple?
Apple currently offers 4 models of iPad: the iPad Mini (8″), the iPad (10.2″), the iPad Air (10.9″), the iPad Pro (11″ and 12.9″). The iPad (good), iPad Air (better) and the iPad Pro 11″ (best) feature nearly the same external dimensions and pilots will find that all three work very well with nearly every aviation app available.
The flagship iPad Pro 11″ includes a large edge-to-edge display, high-performance multicore processor, and along with the iPad Pro 12.9″, is the only iPad to use FaceID for unlocking (read our PIREP on this model here). It also includes a bright, high-resolution liquid retina display with an anti-reflective coating.
The larger iPad Pro 12.9″ model represents a significant improvement over the original iPad Pro 12.9″ – it is 25% smaller while retaining the same display size, thanks to the edge-to-edge screen. The footprint is about the same as a sheet of paper, so it’s a good fit now in most GA cockpits. It comes at a premium price, but we can recommend this model now for those who want the most screen real estate possible.
The latest version of the iPad Air was introduced in September 2020 and looks a lot like the iPad Pro with an edge-to-edge screen and no home button. It uses the speedy A14 processor, which can handle the most demanding aviation app demands with ease. It was also upgraded to use USB-C for charging instead of the traditional lightning connector. For security, the iPad Air incorporates TouchID in the home button at the top of the device, which many pilots find to be more reliable than FaceID in the cockpit.
The budget-friendly model referred to now as just “iPad” is no slouch and was recently updated with the more capable A13 Bionic processor. This is a great buy for much less than the Air or Pro models and far exceeds the requirements needed to run today’s aviation apps.
If you’re looking for an iPad with a smaller footprint, consider the iPad mini. This version measures 7.69″ by 5.3″ and will be a better fit in cockpits with tighter constraints. The 6th generation model was released in September 2021 and uses the A15 Bionic processor. It also includes the anti-reflective screen coating which pilots will find useful in the cockpit (read our PIREP on this model here). For a sense of the size, here’s a picture of an iPad Mini in a Cessna 172 cockpit.
Full iPad specifications are available from Apple. Our top two picks for pilots would be the iPad Air or iPad Mini 6, depending on your size preference – both configured as WiFi-only with 256GB of internal storage. See our buyer’s guide for a more detailed analysis.
What are the internal storage options and how much do I really need?
Apple offers multiple versions of internal memory options for iPads: the entry-level iPad is available in two sizes, either 32GB or 128GB, while the newer Mini and Air models feature are available in 64GB and 256GB sizes. The Pro models go even bigger, with the option to upgrade to 512GB and 1 TB storage options. Downloading all the VFR & IFR charts for the entire United States across multiple data cycles can take nearly 20GB, so even the smallest option available can work well.
However, consider that you may use the iPad for more than just aviation (e.g., pictures, videos, other apps), so you’ll want to leave open some free space for those items. The iPad’s storage is not upgradeable, so you have to commit to a size up front. If in doubt, go with the 256GB option; 64GB may sound like a lot now, but it doesn’t leave much room for future growth as new aviation databases and features are introduced and your photo and music libraries continue to expand.
What is the difference between the Wifi-only iPad and the iPad with LTE?
All iPad models offer Wifi connectivity to the Internet, so you can connect to your home network, your office network, a local coffee shop, etc. But you can also buy an upgraded LTE model that receives wireless data from AT&T or Verizon (for a monthly fee). The benefit to pilots with the LTE model is that it also contains an internal GPS receiver, which is useful for showing your aircraft’s position on aviation map applications (although it has some limitations). The LTE model also allows you to download weather and file flight plans on the go (although it does not work in the air). But again, either model is fine for aviation use. Just consider whether you’re willing to pay that additional monthly fee for the LTE service.
I have iPad LTE (which has an internal GPS) – do I still need an external GPS?
The internal GPS should work fine for most pilots, but it does not offer as precise of a navigation fix as when using an external iPad GPS and the GPS may drop out. When using the iPad with only the internal GPS in your lap in the cockpit, we’ve found that the GPS tended to lose signal reception intermittently. Sometimes the iPad will not lock onto GPS again until you reboot your iPad. If you plan on using the internal GPS, make sure the iPad has a clear view of the sky for best performance. Read more
I bought an iPad LTE – do I need to activate the wireless service for the internal GPS to work?
The internal GPS on an iPad LTE is completely independent from the cellular antenna, and does not require LTE service to be activated from AT&T or Verizon to work properly. You could buy an LTE iPad and use the GPS without ever activating your service.
What are my options for adding an external GPS?
Wireless GPS
- The Dual XGPS 150 has self-contained rechargeable battery that lasts up to 8.5 hours.
- The Dual XGPS 160 can connect to 5 devices at once and features a 10 hour battery life.
- The Garmin GLO 2 GPS can connect to 4 devices at once and includes a 12 hour rechargeable battery.
- The Bad Elf Pro GPS uses Bluetooth to connect to 5 devices simultaneously and includes an LCD status screen.
- The Bad Elf Pro+ GPS adds a barometric pressure sensor and the longest battery life (35 hours) of them all.
All of these units have the same basic performance, and are in the same general price range. The decision comes down to personal preference, especially whether you want a screen and how much battery life is important to you. Note that the Dual XGPS 150 is limited to connecting to one device, while all the others allow you to connect one GPS to multiple iPads.
Another option is to use an ADS-B receiver containing an integrated GPS. You have four options: Stratus (works with ForeFlight, WingX, FlyQ, and others), Sentry (works with ForeFlight only), Garmin GDL 50/51/52 (works with the Garmin Pilot, ForeFlight, Fltplan GO) and the Dual XGPS170/190 (works with WingX, FlyQ, ForeFlight). See below more information on wireless iPad ADS-B weather receivers.
What wireless connection type does the Dual GPS, Garmin GLO and Bad Elf Pro use to connect to the iPad?
These wireless GPS receivers use Bluetooth to connect to the iPad. They must be configured via the iPad settings page, and the devices must be “paired” together. Reference the Dual GPS User’s Guide (PDF) for more information on how to wirelessly connect the devices.
Do I need an LTE model to get Bluetooth?
No. All iPads have Bluetooth built-in, and all iPads work with the Dual GPS and the Bad Elf GPS.
What is the difference between WiFi and Bluetooth?
Both allow you to connect your iPad wirelessly. Bluetooth is shorter range, and allows for usually one connection (like the Dual GPS). WiFi is longer range and allows multiple iPads/iPhones to connect to a wireless network for internet access. WiFi is also a common way to connect wireless accessories to the iPad (like the Stratus or Sentry weather receiver).
When I put the iPad in Airplane Mode before flight the Dual Bluetooth GPS or Garmin GLO GPS will not connect to the iPad. What’s wrong?
Airplane Mode disables most of the wireless connection points on the iPad, including WiFi and cellular data (the internal GPS found on certain iPads will still function in Airplane Mode). If you’re using an external GPS, go ahead and turn Airplane Mode ON, but then manually go back in to the settings and turn on WiFi to allow your third-party accessory to connect (Bluetooth stays on in Airplane Mode). This will ensure all other non-essential wireless radios are turned off, which will increase battery life and reduce the possibility of interference with panel-mount avionics.
For specifics on how to configure the iPad for each type of accessory during preflight, check out this post: iPad Wireless Settings.
Do the external GPS receivers work on iPhone as well?
Yes, the Bad Elf, Dual GPS, Garmin GLO, Sentry, and Stratus are certified to work on all iOS devices.
How do I know the external GPS is providing me location information?
Two of the GPS-only receivers have free apps available in the app store that offer some additional resources:
- Bad Elf GPS: Bad Elf Utility App allows you to see that it’s connected, and can provide firmware updates
- Dual GPS: Bluetooth GPS Status Tool allows you to see GPS coordinates and satellite reception status
When using Stratus or Sentry you can view the satellite reception status in the Devices section of ForeFlight; when using the GDL 50, you can view satellite status from the Settings menu.
Do the external GPS receivers decrease iPad battery life when in use?
Yes – the GPS receivers can decrease battery iPad life by nearly 40% during continuous use.
Can I add in-flight weather to the iPad?
Yes! This is a very popular upgrade. There are two main sources of in-flight weather.
ADS-B: subscription-free and ground-based. Requires portable Stratus or Sentry weather receiver and the ForeFlight iPad app, the Garmin GDL 50 weather receiver and the Garmin Pilot app, or the Dual XGPS190 weather receiver with the WingX and FltPlan Go. Learn more with our ADS-B Receiver Comparison Guide.
SiriusXM: If you prefer a satellite based data-link weather service and don’t mind paying a monthly subscription, then the Garmin GDL 51/52 would do the trick. The GDL 51 is XM only and works with ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot. The GDL 52 receives both ADS-B and XM for the best of both worlds.
Can I legally use the iPad as a replacement for paper charts for VFR or IFR flight?
Yes, under FAR Part 91 flying (majority of General Aviation), you can legally use an iPad that has current charts installed for both VFR and IFR flights. For technical info, refer to the iPad Legal Briefing for Pilots for additional guidance on Electronic Flight Bags.
On a more practical note, is the iPad a reliable paper chart replacement?
At Sporty’s we have been flying with the iPad since the day it came out in 2010, and have found it to been very reliable for displaying electronic charts and aviation data in the cockpit. We use it as our main source of charts in all our flight operations, from local flight-training missions to cross-country trips in our Piper Aztec – and it hasn’t let us down once. We still recommend carrying some type of backup, whether a local VFR Sectional or a backup approach chart or two for IFR pilots (or even a second iPad or iPhone with current data installed).
How do I update my apps?
When an update is available for any of your installed applications, you’ll see a red badge on the App Store icon on the iPad home screen. Open the App Store program, and you’ll then tap on your profile picture at the top right of the screen to see available updates. App updates can also be set to download automatically (from the Settings App, iTunes and App Store page). Most updates are free.
What options do I have for getting charts outside the US?
If you’re looking for Canada or the Caribbean, ForeFlight Mobile offers subscription options for these regions. For a larger collection of international charts, including VFR and IFR charts for many European countries, check out the international subscription options in the Garmin Pilot app.
What is the typical iPad battery life?
Out of the box you can expect about 10 hours of battery life when using it for everyday tasks like surfing the web or reading an e-book. When using it in the airplane with a GPS and a moving-map application, expect the battery to last in the 4 to 6 hour range. Check out this article for information on getting the most out of the battery.
Can I charge the iPad from my airplane’s 12v-24v plug?
Yes, you can purchase a USB 12-24V Charger. This is specially designed for the iPad’s higher 2.1 to 2.4 amp power requirement (not all chargers will effectively charge an iPad).
I don’t have a power source in my airplane – what other options are there for supplying backup power to an iPad?
For extended flights without access to charging, Sporty’s offers a compact Backup Battery system. This portable power supply will provide up to an additional 10 hours of battery life.
What are the main ways people are mounting iPads in the cockpit?
The easiest and most portable way to secure the iPad in the cockpit is with an iPad kneeboard (Sporty’s sells many of these). For more secure and flexible options you can use the Ram Mount or Robust Mounting systems, which offers the option of using a yoke mount, glareshield clamp mount, or a suction cup mount. MyGoFlight also offers a collection of premium mounts that attach to your yoke or side window.
Recommended mounting options for:
-
- Cessna high-wing (C152, C172, C182, etc.) – Suction, Yoke or Glareshield
- Cirrus – Suction or Glareshield (or kneeboard)
- Cessna Corvalis/400 – Suction or Glareshield (or kneeboard)
- Beech – Beech Yoke Mount
- Piper or Mooney – Suction, Yoke or Glareshield
- Small/Mid-Size Jets – Kneeboard
All of these mounts are available for the iPad Air 1-3, the iPad Mini 1-5 and iPad, iPad Air 10.9″ and iPad Pro 11″. Shop all mounts here.
What are my options for securing an iPad in my lap in the cockpit?
- Simple – iPad Air Rotating Kneeboard or My Clip iPad Kneeboard
- Bi-fold Kneeboard – Tri-fold iPad Air Kneeboard, Bi-fold iPad Mini Kneeboard or ASA iPad Rotating Kneeboard
- Deluxe – Flight Outfitters iPad Slimline Kneeboard, Flight Outfitters Mini Slimline Kneeboard, or MyGoFlight iPad Folio C Kneeboard
Most kneeboards are designed for either the iPad Mini or iPad Air/Pro 9.7″/10.5″, although there are still some options designed for iPad 1 – 7.
I want to use the RAM Cradle – do I have to remove my iPad’s protective cover each time?
There are two RAM Mount cradle options. The EZ-Roll’R design (available for most iPads) is the standard and will securely hold the iPad, but you must remove any cover or case before using. The RAM X-Grip provides more flexibility and allows you to secure the iPad without removing a protective case.
What options are available for reducing screen glare in the cockpit?
There are no options currently available that completely eliminate screen glare (don’t believe it if you read it), but this screen protector is the best one we’ve ever seen.
What about Android apps?
Google’s Android system is a competitor to Apple’s iPad and iPhone. Sporty’s offers numerous apps for Android to get you started. If you’re looking for a comprehensive flight planning and in-flight chart & navigation app, check out Garmin Pilot for Android.
Sporty’s kneeboards and the Spring-loaded RAM Mount (10″ class and 7″ class both available) will work with most Android tablets, including the Nexus line.
Where can I find more information on flying with the iPad?
You can view a Beginner’s Guide to the iPad here: Pilot’s guide to the iPad – how to get started.
This site has dozens of great tips and tricks.
Sporty’s hosted a webinar that covers a lot of material, and the video can be found here: iPad Proficiency Webinar.
Looking for seminar covering advanced iPad topics? Check it out here: ForeFlight Advanced Features webinar
Sporty’s also has a biweekly newsletter on Flying with the iPad. Sign up here: iPad Newsletter.
Thanks
For those who would like to use the RAM yoke mount for their i-Pad, but are concerned about blocking the view of other flight instruments and/or interfering with yoke manipulation/control:
The following comments apply specifically to a Cessna-182, but would likely apply to other aircraft as well.
In the past, I used a yoke mount for my VFR and IFR nav charts and approach plates. It mounted on the yoke column without interfering with visual access to panel instruments or manipulation of the controls. This was in addition to a knee pad for IFR clearances, ATIS info, approach check lists, etc.
I wanted to do the same with an i-Pad mount, but was concerned about the larger size of the i-Pad. I bought a RAM yoke mount for the i-Pad-2,and tried it on. Sure enough, although it did not interfere with control manipulation, the size of the i-Pad blocked the view of some of my panel instruments. I had to try to peer over the top of the i-Pad to see all the instrumants. That is when it is mounted in the conventional manner. It is just too high in the yoke to see over easily.
I tried reversing the mounting mechanism (not the i-Pad holder), so that it was upside-down. The holder is still right-side up, but the part that grips the yoke column is upside down. In that configuration, the i-Pad is dropped a few inches in relation to the yoke, giving a clear view of all panel instruments, and still not interferring with yoke manipulation.
It works great!
I am just getting my feet wet. Information appreciated keep me posted. My Jeppesen take up much shelf space. iPad looks like a winner.
The Jep charts on iPad are not wonderful, compared to Foreflight. I have Mexico Jepp charts. Info is there, but not at near the level as Foreflight. Eventually, Foreflight will have Mexico.
Sporty’s iPad Pilot News is one of the best resources out there for general aviation use of an iPad. Bizjet operators, however, have a to meet a higher standard under the FAA’s current application of 91.503. Rapid decompression testing, electromagnetic non-interference testing, airworthiness requirements for mounting brackets have to be considered. One resource to look at is PaperlessCockpit.com’s EFB Guidance Library
http://www.paperlesscockpit.com/guidance/efb/
I am using a Ipad3 with 3g/4g. How can I tell if the internal gps is working and giving location data? Is there an app available like the external Duel and Bad ELF uses? Thanks
David, many aviation apps will tell you. In ForeFlight, for example, you can make one of the 4 data fields in the HUD at the bottom of the Maps tab show GPS accuracy. It will say what device is giving this data (iOS for on board). There’s also a devices page if you’re connected to an external GPS.
Thanks John.
For Part 91F I’m required to have the battery safety test used for the ipad2 lithium ion battery. I haven’t had any success in locating the UL or IEC test stander used. I’ve talked to an apple store but they were of no help.
Do you have this information or can you direct me to a resource.
Thank you SO much for all this clear, concise, timely information. I am not currently flying, but I am planning a drive through the Italian mountainside and appreciate all your iPad-for-navigation data!
Another Tip that should be added to this iPad FAQ’s is “What about Polarized Sunglasses and iPads? Watchout when you buy a kneeboard for your iPad if you wear Polarized sunglasses! If you do, it is basically impossible to see your iPad screen if it is in the portrait (vertical) position. If you can manage to have it in the “landscape” (horizontal) position, you should be fine. I’m having a tough time buying a kneeboard for it because of this reason. And I need one that tilts up AND can be oriented horizontally.
What is an unlocked IPAD and how does that support aviation use?
I am still confused. If I have an iPad3 with WiFi only (no 3G or 4G), can I use it with aviation apps, PFD emulators/apps, and GPS add-ons, weather, and so forth . . . or do I have to obtain a 3G/4G model?
Yes. Any iPad will work with all features (ADS-B weather, Bluetooth GPSs, etc).
You will not have moving map or geo ref until you get the 3G or cellular model iPad or some aftermarket gps.
I am currently located in Singapore and mostly flying in Malaysia. I have reviewed and installed some of the apps recommended but all of them seem to work for US only. Even Garmin. Do you have a recommendation for Pilots outside the US on which SW/ application to use with the Ipad? Thanx for the valuable information which is provided on this site which helps a lot to get started with the Ipad.
I have done a sync between my Laptop and my iPad. If I am having trouble printing an IFR chart from Fore Flight to my wireless printer, can I print that same chart from my Laptop (iTunes Library), since it is “in sync” with my iPad?
I’ve been using the iPad since it came out. I find that ReaderPlates has some advantage over foreflight in that you can download the entire US in about 15 minutes because it only downloads the changes and NOT the whole database. Foreflight takes an eternity to download the whole country.
So what is the “secret” to COMPLETELY DISCHARGING the Ipad as recommended every month if it isn’t used with great regularity?
Thanks
Charlie, a good way to do this is to turn on a program (like ForeFlight) that keeps the screen from turning off after a few minutes. Just let the app run (maybe do your chart downloads) and the screen staying on will run the battery down.
I have Bad Elf with I pad and sometimes when flying a route from a to b I don’t have the airplane symbol following my route on the chart…how come???
I notice there is no mention of iPad mounting options/recomendations gor the Mooney cockpit.
Any advice?
Rick, a yoke mount works pretty well for a Mooney, especially if you’re using a Mini. Suction cup mounts work well too. Kneeboards are tough though.
I have a ipad 2,but alot of new apps and updates require ios 5 and higher,it wont accept ios downloads,what are my options?how do i update?or do i need to trade it in as i am a student pilot,i will need more capabilitys soon. Thanks,please send me answer on email….tx
the 32g storage will adequately hold all current and next issue Foreflight charts, with room to spare. That includes Canada and also Jepp Mexico.
Ram has such a wide variety of mounting options for any airplane. If you search on GPS City website, they can fix you up. Some of the pre-set mounting kits may not work for your needs. There are lots of options that will work however, if you try. You may need to get several dif items and build something yourself from those. There is one ball mount, which requires a hose clamp, that will fit most anything. You will need to be resourceful and try several dif ones. They are not expensive. Be persistent and you will find the one which works best for you.
I have an original iPad 3G, 16GB, and a Dual XGPS150, which I have used successfully in my C170B, running AirNav Pro (Had a big problem with ForeFlight which no one seemed to be able to answer.)
My wife just bought me a Mini 16GB WiFi only. What problems should I expect with this unit, or should I upgrade and if so, to what?
You shouldn’t have many problems at all. All the apps run fine on the mini, and the WiFi only model is not a problem, since you already have a GPS.
John,
Thank you for your prompt reply. I’ll give it a go.
Bernie
An interesting thing happened while using my iPad to track my progress with ForeFlight on a short VFR X/C near Plymouth, MA. The iPad was securely attached to my kneeboard and all was working just fine on a CAVU day. All of a sudden the fully charged iPad went blank! I pushed the round start button and a message came on the screen indicating that the operating temperature range for the iPad had been exceeded. The OAT at altitude was 50+ F, so it never crossed my mind that the sunlight coming in through the wind screen would cause the iPad to overheat. I didn’t feel the heat myself, but when I removed the iPad from the kneeboard it was quite warm on the back side. I moved it to the shade and after a few minutes it returned to normal. Interesting situation.
I write this as a notice to others who may or may not have experienced this, but at least it is something iPad users should be aware of. It could lead to big trouble on an IFR flight, especially in the approach phase.
I am just trying to get the word out. Perhaps a suction mount will solve the problem. I would be interested to hear if anyone else has had this experience and look forward to any comments.
Thanks.
I did not see any comments on sun visor or regular visor mount location. Being high, this location would be out of the sun.
It appears if one is continuously relying on or referencing the moving map, a crick in the neck from looking up could result.
For anyone using their existing panel primarily, with the moving map for occasional reference or back up or cross check, the up high location is probably good. I would appreciate hearing from anyone with their ipad location on the sun visor or regular visor. And what is their level or amount of use during flight of their ipad. My presumption is a sun visor is tinted sun glass like plastic and a regular visor is an opaque sun block. Or the mounting to these two different visor mediums is different with different levels of hold on or holding capability. Knowing if there are any difficulties with either would be useful.
Just got the mini I pad with foreflight. Confused about the track up can not seem to get it to work went to settings hit north up track up center and track up center. What can I do?
Make sure the map is centered on your airplane. Tap the crosshair button at the top right of the screen. Also be sure you’re moving–won’t work on the couch.
DO YOU HAVE MAPS OF OTHER COUNTRIES (EXEPT THE USA)?
Good morning Foreflight,
Some how I’ve deleated this month’s updates and as a result have nothing for the States I’ve paid for, please reenter the down loads so I can have all the current Info that I’ve paid for.
Thanking you in advance for your your prompt attention.
Bob Carroll
I have Garmin Pilot and a DUAL GPS receiver – but have been unable to activate the moving map and navlog for a flight. I’m not filing a flight plan with FAA and just doing VFR flying. How do I activate a trip without filingi a flight plan? And when I do try to file a flight plan via CSC DUATS with the Garmin Pilot I keep getting errors from DUATS abou ” no matching plan”. Help!
Curt, you need to enter your route into the Active FPL page (tap menu then it’s the 2nd choice). Once you have an active flight plan it will show up on the moving map.
John- thanks for getting back to me! When I put the plan in on Active FLP page and hit Menu I have only one option “clear flight plan”…… The route shows up on the first page map but when I fly with the split screen with navlog and the garmin panel instruments -they don’t show that I’m flying. I’ve read the Garmin manual and seem to be missing something….
I was able to figure it out . It was the communication problem between my Dual 150 and the iPad described in another article on this web site. The corrective action worked to get the connectivity and magically all is working as it should. Using the direct-to button activated the navlog.. I’m hoping ios7 will solve this permanently!
I have an IPad retina (4)that has wireless network capability but not 4g/cellular connectivity.
Can the Ipad be upgraded to receive Cellular 4g connectivity or do I need to purchase a whole new unit??
@Thom Warren; if your interest in “upgrading” to cell connectivity is for flying/navigating purposes, DONT WORRY ABOUT IT; you do NOT need internet access for your GPS to work. All of your aviation apps will work just fine as the GPS is independent from any internet source. The reason why your “Road Maps” don’t work is because they are not downloaded on your iPad, the maps themselves are aquired from the internet every time you access the app.
Now, if your question still remains, the answer is NO; you can not “upgrade” a wifi only iPad to receive 4G signal, you’ll need a new device for that.
I hope that helped.
I have a panel mount gps and a hand held gps that i have entered user waypoints. I have been unable to understand how to program user waypoints using latitude and longitude. I enter the values and then the I pad changes them. Help!!!
Bud,
Does this help: https://ipadpilotnews.com/2013/02/understanding-latitude-and-longitude-in-aviation-apps/
John thank you so much. Now I can make my ipad match my GPS user waypoints.
lets say i have ipad mini or air without internal GPS.If i purchase stratus which has its own GPS
will I still need an external gps like elf for
the moving map and weather.
No, the Stratus GPS is all you need. No need for another GPS.
My new IOS 7 now requires me to sign in each time that I turn my iPad on. The original iPad did not. Is this part of the new 7 or is there away around the sign inand password?
A password is not required, but Apple does make it seem that way. Go to Settings -> Passcode Lock -> Turn Passcode Off. You will have to enter your code in order to turn this off.
Just purchased a ipadmini from Apple. The gps does not seem to work the apple cust service rep was filling in from the iPhone desk (it’s a wi if only model) and did not seem to knowledgable…do indeed a separate gps to make fore flight or fly Q work?
The WiFi only model does not have an internal GPS. You’ll need to buy one of the external models, like the Dual 150/160 or Bad Elf.
My techie partner just bought an I-pad mini and put it in our airplane with some undecipherable instructions about how to turn and use it couched in a blizzard of undefined techie terms.
Question:
Are there any redeeming features in this device that will do anything other than distract the pilot from his job of flying the airplane safely and efficiently from point A to point B?
Howard, just like an airplane is pretty much worthless without some training, an iPad is only as valuable as the training behind it. I will say that an iPad can be a major enhancement to flying GA airplanes. It’s not a toy or a gimmick; used properly it can be a safety tool.
Take it slowly and go in with an open mind.
Been reviewing ForeFlight and noticed that there’s no LOCK feature on the Map Page so that you don’t accidently move or tap the map.
That’s correct. There is a lock feature on the Plates page, but not the Maps page.
Just acquired the new IPAD mini with 64 gb. Have Foreflight now loaded. Have not flown with it yet. Should I sync it with my PC as suggested for I phone? Do not really want all of my photo albums etc downloaded on the I pad. Can I selectively sync without all the superfluous things? Thanks!
You should sync for backup if nothing else, but that can be done wirelessly or with iCloud. You don’t have to plug it into your computer.
And yes, you can select what to backup.
Question: Does anyone use a Samsung smartphone (without cellular service connected or subscribed) in the cockpit? Some of the Samsung smartphones (Galaxy Note 2 or 3) are the perfect size for use in the cockpit so I am thinking of purchasing a used Samsung solely for use in the plane with Garmin Pilot. They have built in GPS so I assume they would work with the Garmin App. I do not want the cellular phone service so I will not subscribe or connect. Will the device still work for running the App? Thanks.
Question: I have ForeFlight on a yolk mounted iPad mini. I’ve used polarized and non polarized sunglasses and with both glasses the screen appears very dark. Without sunglasses it’s easy to see. Any suggestions?
Jeff, only the polarized glasses should do that. Are you using a screen protector?
In the photo that introduces the article, I see a window with both an iPad and receiver blocking the view to spot converging traffic. Nothing should be blocking the view outside; that is extremely dangerous. iPads do not replace a scan and phots like that promote dangerous usage.