Pilot’s guide to iOS 12

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Apple released the next major software update for iPad and iPhone this week, called iOS 12. While the update primarily focuses on improving speed and performance, you’ll find hundreds of other new features and improvements for both iPhone and iPad. Here's what to look for.

Troubleshooting Stratus connection problems

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The latest generation of portable ADS-B receivers has proven to be quite reliable in the cockpit, but as with any technical product there is a learning curve. Since all of these devices wirelessly transmit data to your tablet, one of the first areas to consider is the WiFi or Bluetooth connection. Let's look at how to troubleshoot potential connection problems with a Stratus 3.

ADS-B traffic explained

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Portable ADS-B receivers for the iPad can receive ADS-B traffic in addition to weather. But unlike weather, which is broadcast continuously, traffic is only transmitted in response to specific prompts. This can make ADS-B traffic very confusing - when does it work and when doesn't it work?

iPad troubleshooting tip: cycle the power

There's a commonly-used technique that almost always works…

Essential tip: turn off wireless radios before takeoff

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It’s important before each flight to properly configure the iPad’s wireless radios, especially when using a Bluetooth or WiFi accessory. Here are our recommended wireless settings for various iPad and accessory combinations.

Ask a DPE: Is it ok to use an iPad on the checkride?

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We recently held a roundtable with three prominent FAA Designated Pilot Examiners (DPE), Eric Crump, Jason Blair and Todd Ritchey, to discuss common misconceptions about the FAA checkride. One of the most common questions we received during the discussion related to the use of an iPad during the oral and flight test, and whether pilots still need to demonstrate planning and navigation using traditional techniques and paper charts.

Creating your own iPad proficiency review

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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.

What’s the best iPad for pilots?

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Considering your first iPad or upgrading your old one? There are a lot of options. In this article, we'll walk you through all the options, then offer our choice for the best overall aviation tablet.
iPad with screen glare

iPad squawk reports – what pilots are seeing

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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:
iOS 11 task bar

7 settings all iPad pilots should know about

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There are literally hundreds of settings in the main iPad settings app, which can make it difficult to sort out the useful ones from the clutter. Here we'll look at 7 important settings pilots should know about and adjust accordingly.

App troubleshooting: how to close, delete and restart

Everyone knows how to open an app on the iPad--just tap the icon and it's off to the races. But what about closing apps--do you know the difference between sleeping an app, shutting down an app and deleting an app? It's an important distinction that comes into play when an app starts misbehaving.

Charging your iPad: what you need to know

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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.