Entries by John Zimmerman

Starr launches “high definition” insurance app for pilots

Insurance might seem like a very conservative industry, one that would resist the march of technology as long as possible. That’s true in some ways (ever faxed an insurance renewal form in after filling out the same information five times?), but a new app from Starr Aviation is a refreshing change. It offers pilots the option to purchase renter’s insurance right from the app, and the ability to track flying skill over time.

Cleaning your iPad—practical tips for pilots

With the threat of coronavirus hanging over most segments of aviation, many pilots are  getting a quick education on proper cleaning procedures. Wiping down the yokes, avionics, and door handles after each flight has become standard practice at many flight schools, flying clubs, and charter companies. That focus on cleanliness extends to tablets and phones too—but what is safe?

CloudAhoy improves iPad debriefing, offers free subscription for 30 days

CloudAhoy started life as a desktop app and, until recently, the user interface reflected that heritage. While the feature list is long and impressive, some of the options were a little hard to use—especially on a mobile device. The company knows that more and more pilots are debriefing on their iPads, so they have redesigned the Debrief section of the app to be easier to use. Here’s a look at the new layout.

New dual USB charger is perfect for the cockpit

For pilots using a tablet as their primary chart reference, keeping an iPad charged isn’t just a convenience – it’s a safety of flight issue. Fortunately, there are a whole host of solutions that can keep your battery topped off; unfortunately, many were developed for cars and not airplanes. We’ve recently been testing a new option that is made for aviation but is both inexpensive and portable.

5 tips for planning a flight with Garmin Pilot

The reality is EFB apps can do so much more than just METARs and charts, so it’s worth taking the time to sit down on a rainy day (or during quarantine) and explore their hidden features. It’ll help you break out of your iPad routine and improve your preflight planning and in-flight situational awareness. To get you started, here are 5 lesser-known features in the Garmin Pilot app to check out before the next flight.

Six quick video tips on ADS-B receivers

Portable weather receivers like the Sentry from ForeFlight and the Stratus 3 from Appareo are essential parts of many pilots’ flight bags. They are easy to use, with just one button and no wires, but there are some things to know for best performance. This new series of videos offers quick tips for anyone flying with a Sentry or Stratus, and is especially helpful for new owners.

New mount options for the latest iPad models

Apple doesn’t make it easy to understand which iPad you have right now. The latest line of tablets on offer includes no fewer than five confusingly-named models. Finding a mount or kneeboard that fits these new models can be equally confusing. Fortunately, there are good options for each of these five options, including a new one from RAM.

Video: flying with portable weather receivers

Datalink weather has the potential to make your flying safer and more comfortable—but only if you know how to use it properly. Join iPad Pilot News contributor John Zimmerman for an in-depth look at ADS-B, SiriusXM, and how to use them in flight. The webinar recording includes over an hour of practical tips for pilots of all levels.

How to use your iPad as a digital copilot – webinar recording

Sporty’s and iPad Pilot News hosted a webinar covering a wide range of practical topics on flying with the iPad & the ForeFlight Mobile app. The webinar was presented by John Zimmerman, a pilot at Sporty’s Pilot Shop and publisher of iPad Pilot News. This info-packed presentation explored topics applicable to pilots of all iPad experience levels.

Top iPad accessories for pilots – 2020 gear roundup

The iPad makes a great, all-in-one cockpit tool, combining maps, flight planning, weather, documents and so much more. That doesn’t mean it stands on its own, though. A few carefully chosen accessories can make it so much more powerful and easy-to-use. Here’s our updated list of the accessories you should consider, and our top recommendations.