Garmin Pilot makes it easy to do the basics: view aviation charts, plan a flight, and navigate direct to airports. But if you’re looking to take your EFB skills to the next level, this app is loaded with time-saving features and advanced in-flight tools. Here are three we’ve been using recently.
ForeFlight’s Maps page can be a pilot’s best friend, since it’s packed with visual planning tools and helpful information. But for experienced pilots, especially those who file IFR or fly high performance airplanes, the Flights tab offers a wealth of powerful features. Here are six that are often overlooked.
One of the major headlines from Apple’s recent iPad announcement was the introduction of a new screen technology on the latest iPad Pro models. We just received our new iPad Pro 13″ with the nano-texture screen and promptly took it up for a test flight. Is it deserving of the hype? In short, yes. While it doesn’t completely eliminate screen glare, it does make a big difference in direct sunlight. Read on for more details
Electronic flight bag apps make it much easier for pilots to avoid in-flight weather hazards. That includes the big three threats (thunderstorms, in-flight icing, and low IFR conditions), but right after those critical concerns comes passenger comfort and that usually means turbulence. Now ForeFlight has found a creative way to give pilots more detailed and timely information about where the rough rides are.
Flying a light airplane doesn’t have to mean pilots are totally cut off. Garmin’s inReach portable communicators are becoming increasingly capable and affordable. They certainly don’t enable email or web browsing, but they are useful for short text messages, flight tracking, and even emergency messages—and they integrate nicely with the Garmin Pilot app. Best of all, you can be up and running for less than $500 all-in.
The days of holding a mini-Maglite in your mouth and shining it down on a paper sectional are gone thanks to the iPad’s backlit screen. But just because the iPad solves part of the night lighting equation doesn’t mean you can just hop in the airplane and start using it the same way you do during the day. Here are five things to consider the next time you go flying at night with your iPad.
The one side effect from Apple’s high level of performance is that it can cause pilots to develop a bit of complacency over time, especially if you don’t periodically inspect your device settings, preferences, app configuration, and system updates. Similar to the routine of having your airplane undergo an annual inspection, we recommend that you take the time to review the following items once a year to keep your iPad, apps and accessories performing at their best.
If you’re shopping for a mount or kneeboard you’ll quickly have to answer the question, “which iPad do I have?” It’s not always as simple as it might sound, so if you’re not sure which model you have, you’re not alone. If you need to look that information up here’s how to do so.
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.
Without enough juice in the battery, Garmin Pilot cannot show your approach plates and Sentry cannot show the latest radar. That makes a backup power source an absolutely essential item for any pilot. Now there’s a new option that’s small enough to fit in your pocket and eliminates the need to carry cables.
Garmin’s top-of-the-line portable weather receivers, the compact GDL 52 and GDL 51, receive more than just GPS and weather. With an active SiriusXM subscription, pilots and passengers can also enjoy music and live sports in flight. Once you’ve configured all your devices, it’s very easy to listen to SiriusXM Radio, but the first time you do it there are a few steps to follow.
Sentry includes all the essential features—weather, traffic, GPS, AHRS, carbon monoxide detector—but at a size and price that make it a great fit for almost any pilot. This week, ForeFlight announced an updated Sentry that doesn’t add major new capabilities, but offers enhanced performance.
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