As the old saying goes, “train like you fly, fly like you train.” If you fly with an iPad, don’t hide it during your training flights. Better to make it an integral part of your proficiency program, whether you’re on your own or with an instructor, including what to do if it fails. Here’s a suggested list of topics to cover.
Last year we reported on a concept from MITRE corporation that showed how to deliver IFR clearances via electronic flight bag app. The goal was to offer a safer, more reliable, and more efficient way to pick up a clearance at a remote airport. Now this concept is taking the next step, with a limited test at Manassas Regional Airport (HEF) in Virginia.
A few weeks ago, we asked iPad Pilot News readers about their experience flying with the iPad. We wanted to know about squawks – any app or hardware issues that had occurred, and how often. Today we’re happy to share the results of the survey:
iPads are great, but sometimes you just need to scribble a note or consult a paper checklist. That’s why many pilots fly with a kneeboard to keep things organized. In this new Product PIREP video, we went flying with two new designs from Flight Gear that accommodate both paper and EFBs, and include a number of flexible options. See them in action in a Cessna 182 to see all the features.
The iPad is an incredibly powerful and reliable tool for pilots, whether you’re flying a Cub or a C-17. But like any technology, issues can pop up, from overheating to app bugs. Take our quick, 10-question survey to tell us what problems you’ve had flying with the iPad. We’ll then share the data with readers to determine which issues are most common.
One of our favorite features in ForeFlight is its ability to continuously monitor your position, altitude and flight profile to provide a number of in-app audio and visual alerts. These are designed to keep you aware of potential hazards and improve situational awareness in-flight and on the ground. Here we’ll go through each alert function based on phase of flight to explain its purpose and configuration options.
Learning how to use VORs and NDBs isn’t very exciting, but it’s still a requirement if you want to earn a Private Pilot certificate or Instrument rating. Often it comes down to a problem of visualizing how the different systems work. A recently-updated app, IFR Flight Trainer Simulator, can help with this learning curve.
Garmin has introduced multiple portable weather receivers over the last six months, including the GDL 51 SiriusXM receiver and the GDL 52 SiriusXM/ADS-B receiver. Now the GDL family is complete, with the introduction of the GDL 50 – an ADS-B, GPS, AHRS unit with an 8-hour battery.
DUATS is being shut down on May 16. The official reason is that the contract between the FAA and CSRA (a government contractor that was formerly called CSC) is expiring. The more practical reason is that electronic flight bag apps have completely revolutionized how most general aviation pilots plan flights and file flight plans.
Keeping your iPad battery charged is essential if you’re using it as an electronic flight bag in the cockpit, but not every USB charger works with an iPad. Here’s how to choose the right charger, and what to consider if you’re shopping for a backup power solution.
Which is better – subscription-free ADS-B weather or satellite-delivered SiriusXM weather? With the new Garmin GDL 52, you don’t have to choose any more. This battery-powered receiver includes both, plus GPS and AHRS, and it can connect to tablets running the Garmin Pilot app or to Garmin portable GPSs. Here’s an in-flight review of this all-in-one device.
Whether it’s closing an app, switching apps, opening the control center, or searching for something, iOS 11 has multiple gestures that can save time or unlock additional features. Once you get proficient with them, they can really save time in the cockpit. Let’s review all the options.
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