Artificial intelligence has arrived in aviation. From route planning and weather briefings to NOTAM summaries and aircraft-specific guidance, a growing number of apps promise to simplify preflight planning. Some of these tools are designed specifically for aviation, while others leverage general-purpose AI models that many pilots already use every day. The question is no longer whether AI can assist pilots—it’s whether it can do so reliably.
The Sporty’s Pilot Training app has steadily evolved from a course viewer into one of the most capable aviation training platforms available for pilots using the iPad. The latest addition continues that trend, with PilotWorkshops’ popular VFR Mastery and IFR Mastery series now fully integrated into the online platform and dedicated app for iOS.
The so-called “impossible turn”—attempting to return to the runway after an engine failure on departure—has been debated by pilots for decades. While some instructors teach it as a viable option under the right conditions, others warn that attempting the maneuver too low can quickly become unrecoverable. A new app called Glide2 attempts to bring more structure to that decision-making process.
The new Bluebird Aero iPad Case for iPad Mini 6/7 combines active cooling, backup power, and mounting flexibility into a single, purpose-built case for pilots using the iPad Mini.
You’re cruising along at 6,500 feet, glancing down at your iPad to review the weather ahead. Then, suddenly—it goes dark. Maybe it overheated, maybe the battery died, or maybe the app just froze. Whatever the cause, your trusty iPad electronic flight bag (EFB) is now an expensive paperweight. Now what? A good backup plan starts with a simple rule: two of everything.
Pilots looking to get more out of ForeFlight now have a powerful new training resource. Sporty’s has teamed up with ForeFlight to deliver ForeFlight Power Users Training, a comprehensive new course available exclusively on the Sporty’s Pilot Training app.
While ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot have set the standard for many years in EFB apps, a recent update to iFly EFB is a good reminder that there are capable and more affordable alternatives worth a closer look. With the release of version 14, Adventure Pilot is doubling down on what has long been iFly’s calling card—a deep feature set at a competitive price.
while GPS interference—both jamming and spoofing—is becoming more common, for most general aviation flying in the United States, these events are still relatively rare and usually localized. That said, the FAA’s guidance reinforces a familiar aviation principle to not rely on a single source of navigation data. And your iPad can play an important role in that redundancy.
Whether you’re flying local VFR or a more intense IFR cross-country, having reliable Starlink connectivity depends as much on your mount as it does on the antenna itself. For budget-conscious pilots, the Starlink Mini Silicone Window Suction or Dash Mount provide simple, secure options. If adjustability and multi-surface mounting matter most, Flight Gear and RAM mounts deliver robust, cockpit-tested performance.
How much backup battery do you really need in the cockpit? We compare three Flight Gear power banks—from a compact 2,000 mAh emergency pack to a 27,600 mAh smart battery built for multi-device IFR flying—and explain how to choose the right one for your mission.
The Flight Gear Smart Suction Mount uses an electric suction system with a mechanical lock, creating a firm, confident hold on smooth cockpit surfaces like glass or clean panels. Press it into place, and you’ll actually hear it lock down. It’s a reassuring detail for the flight deck.
ForeFlight remains the heavyweight in the EFB world, but with more capable options than ever—and subscription prices that make pilots pause—we’re hearing a familiar question: Should I stick with what I know, or is it time to look around?
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