ForeFlight vs. Garmin Pilot: Which mobile app is best for you?

/
You bought an iPad to use in the airplane and now it's time to make a decision on which app is best for your aviation chart and data needs. This thorough guide compares aviation's top 2 apps, ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot, highlighting the strengths of each and how they interface with datalink weather receivers.

Flashpass adds support for Canada, Bahamas and CARICOM

/
In addition to filing U.S. and Mexico eAPIS manifests, Flashpass can now take care of the required paperwork when flying to Canada, Bahamas and the Caribbean Islands.

Creating your own iPad proficiency review

/
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.

How to use visual track log reviews and alternate airport planning in ForeFlight 11.5

/
ForeFlight's rapid-fire update streak continued this week with yet another big release, delivering several new features that continue to push the app's capabilities. These include a new visual track log debrief tool, alternate airport advisor, runway selector, expanded European chart coverage and SkyEcho 2 FLARM traffic support.

Garmin GTN Trainer updated with new navigation and weather features

/
Garmin's free GTN trainer was recently updated with the same new features found in the update for the actual panel-mount GPS system, including vertical navigation (VNAV), QWERTY keyboard, waypoint distance offset in the flight plan and new ADS-B weather products.

Pilot’s guide to mounting the iPad in the cockpit

/
Securing your iPad while you fly is important for both safety and convenience. Here we'll review the mounts currently available for the iPad Mini, Air and Pro, including which models work best in various airplane types and configurations.

Keeping your charge – iPad battery tips

/
An external battery pack can be a lifesaver in today’s modern cockpit. Let’s dig into the details of the devices you carry and these backup batteries to understand what you need to look for and what to avoid.

How to keep your iPad from overheating in flight

/
Based on an iPad Pilot News reader survey we recently conducted, over 70% of respondents reported that they have had the iPad shut down on them at least once in flight due to overheating. This is by far the most common problem reported by pilots when flying with an iPad, but it can be prevented with a little bit of planning and preparation.

AltitudeAlert adds baro pressure input and DA/MDA alerts

/
A new version of the AltitudeAlert app is now available and uses the barometric pressure sensor in newer iPads to deliver greater accuracy for in-flight altitude alerts. It also provides customizable alerts when reaching the MDA or DA on an instrument approach.

iPad pilot’s guide to Sun ‘N Fun 2018

The flying season’s unofficial kick-off is next week, as the gates open for the 2018 edition of the Sun ‘N Fun Fly-in at the Lakeland airport. There will undoubtedly be new products to see and spectacular airshows to take in. But for iPad pilots, there will also be some great opportunities to learn about the new iPad Pro models, latest iPad tips, apps and accessories.

6 tips for instrument pilots when flying with ForeFlight

/
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. Here are 6 additional tips you can use on your next instrument flight when using the ForeFlight app.

iPad essential tip: how to search your iPad for apps

The Spotlight Search is very simple and powerful tool on your iPad. Learn how you can quickly find and launch apps with it in this week's tip.