Using an iPad for flying: how old is too old?
That cheap used iPad might not be such a bargain. Here’s how hardware, iPadOS, and aviation app requirements determine whether an older iPad is still a good choice for flying.
Author Archive for: johnz
Entries by John Zimmerman
Garmin introduces D2 Mach 2 Pro smartwatch with LTE, Iridium
As we reported last fall, the Garmin D2 Air X15 and D2 Mach 2 smartwatches pack an incredible number of features into attractive pilot watches. Now Garmin has added a new top-of-the-line model, the D2 Mach 2 Pro, which includes built-in connectivity features that make it a truly standalone tool.
SkyDemon offers simple, VFR-only app experience—is it enough for US pilots?
Industry-leading apps like ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot are incredibly capable pilot assistants, loaded with literally hundreds of features to make flying easier and safer. But not all pilots want the latest bells and whistles. That’s why SkyDemon, a long-established app in Europe, is making a renewed effort to attract US pilots.
How to Improve Your iPad’s Battery Life
One of the most under-appreciated features of the iPad is its fantastic battery life. Even with a high-resolution screen and a powerful processor, Apple’s tablet offers a battery life of 4 to 6 (or more) hours in the air—better than almost every other competing tablet. But there are a number of things you can do to improve the performance of your iPad battery and keep it in top working condition.
Do I really need to use Airplane Mode on my iPad or iPhone Pilot?
One of the most common questions we hear as pilots is, “Do I really need to put my phone in Airplane Mode?” The airlines have been saying yes for years, but many travelers think this advice is outdated and it’s safe to ignore. Is that true in a small airplane? And what is Airplane Mode anyway? Here’s our advice.
Flying with the Garmin D2 Mach 2 and D2 Air X15
This month Garmin launched the latest generation of their popular smartwatch, the D2 Air X15 and the D2 Mach 2, which feature better screens and more features than ever. The watches are also another node in Garmin’s Connext platform, which ties together multiple devices in the cockpit, from iPad apps to panel avionics. Here’s how to use them.
Weather planning with Garmin Pilot: widgets and flight profile
One of Garmin Pilot’s standout features is its split-screen mode. While many pilots know how to use split-screen for viewing approach charts or traffic, there are also some valuable tools for weather planning, both before takeoff and during cruise. Here’s how to use the Widgets and Flight Profile features.
Ready to start flying with Starlink internet? Listen to this podcast first
Bret Koebbe, editor of iPad Pilot News, recently joined Max Trescott on the Aviation News Talk podcast to share how pilots can get started with Starlink Mini, covering hardware, subscriptions, mounting, power options, and tips from his year of flying with the system. Listen in to learn how to stay connected in the cockpit like never before.
How to use FlySto to debrief flights and manage engine data
How did that flight go? It’s a simple question—one that every pilot should ask themselves after every flight—but there’s usually not a simple answer. When you’re judging your proficiency as a pilot or tracking the performance of your engine, it pays to be specific. That’s what makes FlySto, a free software platform that offers powerful debriefing tools for pilots, so valuable.
The perfect portable battery for Starlink: Flight Gear Smart Battery Pack Max
More and more general aviation pilots are flying with Starlink Mini, the first truly portable and affordable satellite connectivity system that works in small airplanes. Passengers can browse social media and pilots can access additional weather products at any altitude, and all with simply a square antenna mounted in the window and a $65/month subscription. We are both excited and nervous about the Starlink revolution, but it’s undeniably a powerful tool when used properly.
Garmin SmartCharts: a pilot’s guide to interactive instrument charts
After nearly a decade of work, avionics giant Garmin has released SmartCharts, a fully interactive version of those familiar approach plates that is accessible in its Garmin Pilot EFB app. This seemingly modest change is actually the result of sophisticated software development, rigorous testing, and exhaustive validation work. In other words, it’s a big deal—a Jeppesen Airway manual moment for the EFB age. Here’s how it works.
SkewTLogPro releases version 3.0—upgrade your weather briefing today
It seems like there are two types of pilots: those who have never heard of Skew-T log (p) charts and true believers who know they are the source of all truth and knowledge about weather. The second group is overstating things just a bit, but the first group is definitely missing out on some helpful weather information. With a little training—and the affordable SkewTLogPro app—it’s easy to integrate Skew-T diagrams into your normal preflight routine. Here’s how to get started.
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