Entries by John Zimmerman

AltitudeAlert V3 adds universal iOS support, new ALT HOLD feature

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The latest version of this helpful app, called simply AltitudeAlert V3, works on all iOS devices from iPhone to iPad Pro to Apple Watch. That latter device is a nice addition if you fly with one – the app will now deliver haptic alerts in addition to pop-up notifications and audio alerts. Depending on how you set up your devices, you could have an audio alert in your Bluetooth-enabled headset, a vibration on your wrist, and a message on your iPad screen.

Using your iPad on a trip to Canada

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Canada is an easy flight for many pilots in the United States, and summer is the perfect time to visit. Fortunately, there are a number of iPad apps that make it easier than ever to plan and fly your flight to Canada. On a recent trip north, we were impressed with how powerful the major Electronic Flight Bag apps have become when it comes to cross-border flying.

Kneeboard options for iPad Pro models

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The latest generation of iPad Pro models from Apple are some of the most powerful tablets ever made, with desktop-class performance and vibrant screens. However, the gorgeous screens come with one minor footnote: their edge-to-edge design means not all kneeboards work well with them.

5 quick Garmin Pilot tips

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We often get asked, “If I have a panel full of Garmin, does that mean I should use Garmin Pilot for my EFB app?” There’s no simple answe, but it’s definitely worth a serious look. Here are some examples of the deep integration possible with a Flight Stream and Garmin panel-mount avionics (in this case a Garmin GTN 750 and G600 TXi glass panel).

ADS-B weather adds new product, faster radar updates

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One of the promises of ADS-B datalink weather (technically called FIS-B) was that it would improve over time, with new weather products and better performance coming out free of charge. Over the last month, tens of thousands of pilots flying with subscription-free ADS-B weather have seen even more new products appear. It doesn’t require any new hardware, just an update to the latest version of ForeFlight. 

How do I mount my iPad in the airplane?

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Securing your iPad while you fly is important for safety (to prevent your tablet from flying around the cockpit), but also for convenience (to keep it close by and easy to use). There are plenty of different mounts to choose from, but they aren’t all universal. Which one is right for you? It depends a lot on the type of airplane you fly. Let’s look at some examples.

5 preflight features to try out in Garmin Pilot

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The reality is modern EFB apps can do so much, and it’s worth taking the time to sit down on a rainy day on the couch 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.

Time-saving ForeFlight tools for IFR pilots

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Instrument flying with an iPad these days has never been more convenient. You can file IFR flight plans, view in-flight datalink radar to avoid thunderstorms, and see your real-time location right on the instrument approach chart. This only scratches the surface on what an iPad can do when flying IFR – here are 6 additional tips you can use on your next instrument flight when using the ForeFlight app.

Aithre releases new carbon monoxide detector and app

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Carbon monoxide poisoning is an ever-present threat in piston airplanes, especially in winter when heating systems can introduce the deadly exhaust gas into the cabin. There’s a new CO detector on the market that includes a smartphone app for additional monitoring. Here’s a look at what it can do.

FAR/AIM app updated with new features

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Sporty’s FAR/AIM app for iPhone and iPad has been a popular option for many years, but a recent update adds some helpful new features. The app is continuously updated as regulations change, and a one-time purchase includes all updates. Just buy it once and you’ll always be up to date.