ForeFlight 12.8 adds advanced map and logbook features

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The latest ForeFlight update is relatively minor but includes some important additions to the logbook and aeronautical map screens. It also adds Pre-Departure Clearance support for pilots using Honeywell datalink services. Here's a quick review of how to use each feature after you update to ForeFlight 12.8.

Top 10 apps for student pilots

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The iPad is a great tool for pilots of all skill levels, from airline captains to student pilots. In addition to displaying digital charts and navigation data in the cockpit, the iPad is also very good for both organization and as a training resource on the ground. Here are 10 apps for new pilots to consider.

ForeFlight version 12.7 adds more 3D features and visual approaches

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ForeFlight has maintained its relentless pace of updates in 2020, with this week bringing the eighth major release of the year. Version 12.7 builds on the 3D weather tools we reviewed earlier this month, plus adds enhancements to internet traffic, and traffic pattern entries. Here's a summary.

POH Performance: free flight planning apps for pilots

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POH Performance offers free apps for the Cessna 172 and 182, Beech Bonanza and Baron and TBM turboprops and can assist with trip planning, weight and balance, takeoff/landing performance and IFR calculations.

Three simple apps for pilots to try

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Most pilots are "married" to an electronic flight bag app like ForeFlight, Garmin Pilot, or WingX. But sometimes less is more. With that in mind, here are three simple, inexpensive apps we've been using lately that are worth trying.

Plane Finder adds Watch app, weather layers, 3D view

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There are lots of apps for tracking airplanes, from FlightAware's ever-popular solution to the new internet traffic layer in ForeFlight. But one of the most creative and polished apps is Plane Finder, a longtime App Store best-seller. It's great for tracking your inbound airline flight, but it also has the tools to be of value for general aviation pilots. After a busy summer, the latest version of the app is sporting some interesting new features.

ForeFlight 12.6 brings 3D weather view and overheat alerts

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ForeFlight has always been strong in the preflight weather department, both in terms of providing forecasts that are hard to find online and in simplifying their display. Version 12.6 of the app takes a step in the direction of simplicity, plus adds a helpful iPad warning. Here's a review.

AOPA app adds new leaderboards to Pilot Passport feature

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The latest update to the AOPA app adds new leaderboards to promote friendly competition among pilots based on unique experiences, like most grass runways visited or landings at a Class B airport.
Basic Aerobatics Course

Pilot Training app grows to 27 courses with new aerobatics training

Sporty's Pilot Training app (available for both iOS and Android devices) has grown dramatically over the last few years to become a comprehensive aviation library for any pilot interested in improving their flying skills. The latest addition is a new aerobatics course from well-known airshow pilot Patty Wagstaff, which dives into the exciting world of loops, rolls, and spins.

Garmin Pilot adds tab bar interface and new features

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The latest Garmin Pilot update adds a familiar new interface option to the app in the form of a tab bar at the bottom of the screen. The update also adds a new live track log function and Garmin's smart Route Data chart download function to the Trip Planning screen.

Four preflight features we like in Stratus Insight

Every app has its own perspective and idiosyncrasies, and Stratus Insight is no exception. Some of the unique features and design choices work well; others are a little confusing. Here are four we really like.

ForeFlight adds runway hotspots, timer, street addresses to version 12.5

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After a blockbuster app update last month, ForeFlight's June release is smaller in scale but still includes some nice additions. Here's a review.