Best iPad for Pilots, Students, and Enthusiasts
Finding the best iPad for pilots involves matching the models available with the needs of the pilot in question. A commercial pilot will need a higher spec iPad to that of a student. Having an Apple iPad in the cockpit has become almost indispensable. It’s hard to imagine flying without one, as it provides invaluable navigation, flight planning, and weather information. So let’s take a look at what models are available and best suited to aviators of all types.
Photo by Francois Hoang on Unsplash Photo by Maël BALLAND
What is the Best iPad for Pilots in 2023? Models to Suit All Aviators
iPad Pro
The iPad Pro is the flagship model, with a powerful processor and stunning display. It’s ideal for pilots who need top-of-the-line performance and advanced features.
- Display: 12.9″ or 11″ Liquid Retina XDR display
- Processor: Apple M1 chip
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB
- Price: Starting at $1,083.94 (12.9″)
iPad Pro (6th Generation)
| Memory Storage Capacity | 256 GB |
| Screen Size | 12.9 Inches |
| Display Resolution Maximum | 2732 x 2048 Pixels |
iPad Air
The iPad Air is a more affordable option, offering excellent performance and a great display at a lower price point.
- Display: 10.9″ Liquid Retina display
- Processor: A14 Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB or 256GB
- Price: Starting at $599
iPad Air (5th Generation)
| Memory Storage Capacity | 256 GB |
| Screen Size | 10.9 Inches |
| Display Resolution Maximum | 2360 x 1640 Pixels |
iPad Mini
The iPad Mini is perfect for those who need a smaller, more portable device with decent performance and features.
- Display: 8.3″ Liquid Retina display
- Processor: A15 Bionic chip
- Storage: 64GB or 256GB
- Price: Starting at $499
iPad Mini (6th Generation)
| Memory Storage Capacity | 256 GB |
| Screen Size | 8.3 Inches |
| Display Resolution Maximum | 2266 x 1488 Pixels |
Benefits of Using an iPad in the Cockpit
Using an iPad in the cockpit offers several benefits:
- Improved Navigation: Access to aviation apps like ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot, providing real-time navigation and charts.
- Flight Planning: Easily plan your flights and calculate fuel consumption, weight and balance, and more.
- Real-time Weather Updates: Access to live weather data, including radar, satellite imagery, and METARs/TAFs.
- Paperless Cockpit: Reduce clutter and save weight by eliminating paper charts, checklists, and manuals.
- Cost Savings: Lower subscription costs for charts and databases compared to traditional aviation GPS units.
Comparing iPad Models for Pilots: Pro vs Air vs Mini
When comparing iPad models, consider factors such as display size, performance, storage capacity, and price:
- iPad Pro: Offers the best performance and largest display, making it ideal for aviators who need advanced features and top-of-the-line specs.
- iPad Air: A more affordable option with excellent performance, the iPad Air is great for aviators who want a balance between features and cost.
- iPad Mini: The smallest and most portable option, the iPad Mini is perfect for those with limited cockpit space or who need a more budget-friendly device.
- Standard iPad: The most budget-friendly option but may lack some advanced features.
Best iPad for Foreflight
For ForeFlight, the iPad Pro is the top-of-the-line option, offering unparalleled speed and display quality. However, the iPad Air provides a good balance between performance and cost, making it a popular choice among pilots.
Screen Size and Resolution
A larger screen and higher resolution can make it easier to read charts and weather data, but they also take up more cockpit space. The iPad Pro offers the largest screen size and highest resolution, but if cockpit space is a concern, the iPad Mini’s smaller form factor might be more suitable.
Performance and Speed
ForeFlight is a resource-intensive app that benefits from a fast processor and ample RAM. The iPad Pro and iPad Air come equipped with powerful processors and more RAM, ensuring that ForeFlight runs smoothly even when multitasking.
Battery Life
Long flights require an iPad with a battery that can last for the duration. The iPad Pro and iPad Air offer excellent battery life, usually around 10 hours, which should be sufficient for most flights. However, always carry a portable charger as a backup.
Connectivity
Good connectivity options are essential for downloading real-time weather updates and filing flight plans. All modern iPads come with Wi-Fi, but for more reliable connectivity, especially in remote areas, consider an iPad with cellular capabilities.
Price and Affordability
While the iPad Pro offers the best features, it also comes at a premium price. Balance your budget against your needs. If you’re a casual flyer or on a budget, the standard iPad or iPad Mini should suffice. For more frequent flyers or commercial pilots, the iPad Air or iPad Pro is a worthwhile investment.
iPad Pro (6th Generation)
| Memory Storage Capacity | 256 GB |
| Screen Size | 12.9 Inches |
| Display Resolution Maximum | 2732 x 2048 Pixels |
Best iPad Mount For Aircraft use
Selecting the right mount is crucial for ensuring easy access and visibility. You may opt for a specific pilot kneeboard or just use an iPad mount. Some top mounts for iPads include:
- RAM Mounts: Offers a wide range of mounting solutions, including yoke, suction cup, and glare shield mounts.
- MyGoFlight: Provides high-quality, versatile mounts that can be easily adjusted for optimal viewing angles.
- Sporty’s iPad Mounts: Offers affordable and straightforward mounting options for various cockpit setups.
Yoke-Mounted iPad Mounts
Pros of Yoke-Mounted
Centralised Positioning
Yoke-mounted iPad mounts place the device in the centre of your field of view, making it easier to glance at the screen without diverting your attention from the primary flight instruments.
Stability
These mounts are generally very stable, with little to no wobble, ensuring that your iPad stays in place even during turbulent conditions.
Easy Access to Controls
Having the iPad mounted on the yoke means it’s within easy reach, allowing for quick interactions with the device.
Cons of Yoke-Mounted
Limited Space
Yoke mounts can be bulky and may interfere with other cockpit controls or instruments, especially in smaller aircraft with limited cockpit space.
Fixed Position
The position is more or less fixed, offering limited flexibility in adjusting the viewing angle.
Potential for Distraction
Because the iPad is in your direct line of sight, it could potentially distract from focusing on primary flight instruments.
FlightPro Aviator+ Yoke Mount
- ✈️ The ONLY Yoke Mount that support both Phones and iPads (including Mini & 12.9” Pro) with or without a case!
- ✈️ Sturdy and secure yoke mount specifically designed for GA Pilots use & iPads
- ✈️ Easily adjustable to accommodate different yoke sizes and angles and a 360-degree rotation for optimal viewing angles in both landscape and portrait orientations
Suction Cup iPad Mounts
Pros of Suction Cup
Flexibility in Positioning
Suction cup mounts can be attached to various surfaces like the windshield or side windows, offering more flexibility in positioning the iPad according to your preference.
Easy Installation and Removal
These mounts are generally easier to install and remove, making them a good option for pilots who fly different types of aircraft.
Less Intrusive
Suction cup mounts are less likely to interfere with other controls or instruments in the cockpit.
Cons of Suction Cup
Stability Concerns
While many suction cup mounts offer strong adherence, they may not be as stable as yoke mounts, especially during turbulence.
Potential for Obstructed View
Depending on where you place it, a suction cup mount could potentially obstruct your view of the outside environment.
Environmental Factors
Temperature changes and humidity can affect the suction grip, potentially causing the mount to lose its hold.
Aozcu Tablet Mount
- Heavy duty tablet mount holder with a super 95 mm vacuum suction cup, which can de firmly attached to the windscreen and dashboard. The metal ball head design is more durable and stable than plastic materials. The clip has a non-slip silicone pad to protect your device and prevent it from shaking during use.
Essential Features to Look for in an iPad for Pilots
When choosing an iPad for cockpit use, consider the following features:
- Display Size and Quality: Choose a display size that works for your cockpit setup and offers crisp, clear visuals.
- Battery Life: Ensure the iPad has a long battery life for extended flights, or invest in an external battery pack.
- Durability: Look for a durable device that can withstand the rigors of cockpit use and potential turbulence.
- Operating System: Make sure the iPad supports the latest iOS version for compatibility with aviation apps.
- Processor: Opt for a model with a fast processor to handle demanding tasks and ensure smooth performance.
iPad Aviation Apps for Pilots
There are numerous apps available to enhance your flying experience, including:
- ForeFlight: Topping the list of must-have aviation apps, ForeFlight is a comprehensive tool for flight planning, charts, weather, airport information, document management, synthetic vision, and more. It’s widely recognized as one of the best all-in-one apps for pilots, making it a staple on most iPads in the cockpit.
- Garmin Pilot: Another popular choice, Garmin Pilot, offers a suite of tools including flight planning, weather, 3D Vision, extensive aviation databases, and connectivity with Garmin avionics for a seamless flying experience.
- FltPlan Go: This free app is a great companion for pilots, offering features like moving maps, geo-referenced approach plates, airport diagrams, flight plan filing, and weather updates.
- SkyDemon: Particularly popular in Europe, SkyDemon is a powerful tool for VFR flight planning and in-flight navigation, offering vector charts, virtual radar, terrain highlighting, and more.
- CloudAhoy: This app is a fantastic tool for post-flight debriefing. It logs all your flights automatically and provides a detailed analysis of your flight path, maneuvers, and more.
- LiveATC: This app provides live air traffic control broadcasts from around the world, helping pilots understand ATC communication and improve their radio communication skills.
- Sporty’s Pilot Training: Ideal for student pilots, this app offers a comprehensive ground school program with video lessons, practice tests, and interactive figures.
How to Set Up your iPad for Cockpit Use
To optimize your iPad for cockpit use, follow these steps:
- Install essential aviation apps: Choose the apps you’ll need for navigation, weather, and flight planning. See above for a list of some of the most popular.
- Configure app settings: Tailor each app’s settings to your preferences and needs.
- Set up mounts and chargers: Find the best mounting solution for your cockpit and invest in a reliable charger or external battery.
- Connect Bluetooth devices: Pair your iPad with Bluetooth headsets, GPS receivers, and other accessories.
- Optimize display settings: Adjust brightness and enable night mode for easier viewing in various lighting conditions.
Best External Batteries for your iPad on Long Flights
Investing in a reliable external battery can keep your iPad powered during long flights. Top choices include:
- Anker PowerCore Series: Offers a variety of capacities and charging speeds to suit your needs.
- RAVPower Portable Chargers: Provides high-capacity and fast-charging options for extended use.
- Goal Zero Sherpa Series: Features rugged and durable designs with solar charging capabilities.
Essential Accessories for your Pilot iPad
Enhance your iPad experience with these must-have accessories:
- Protective case: Invest in a durable case to protect your iPad from damage.
- Screen protector: Prevent scratches and glare with a high-quality screen protector.
- Stylus: Improve accuracy when interacting with your iPad by using a stylus.
- Bluetooth keyboard: Easily type and input data with a portable Bluetooth keyboard.
How to Keep your iPad Secure in-flight
To ensure your iPad remains secure during flights, consider the following tips:
- Use a strong mount: Invest in a reliable mount to prevent your iPad from falling or shifting during turbulence.
- Enable a passcode or Touch ID: Protect your personal information by setting up a passcode or using Touch ID.
- Regularly update apps and iOS: Keep your device and apps up-to-date for optimal security and performance.
- Use a VPN when connected to public Wi-Fi: Protect your data by using a VPN when accessing public networks.
Photo by Maël BALLAND on Unsplash
iPad for Student Pilots
For anyone learning to fly, an iPad is an excellent tool to enhance their training experience. The new iPad Mini, with its smaller size and lower price point, is an ideal option for those just starting out in general aviation. The iPad Mini 6 offers an 8.3-inch display, perfect for fitting inside the tight spaces of a Cessna cockpit. The smaller size doesn’t sacrifice performance, as the latest iPad Mini is equipped with a powerful A15 Bionic chip and optional GPS chip for improved accuracy.
The iPad Mini with Wi-Fi is sufficient for most student pilots’ needs in the cockpit. However, if you plan to use apps like ForeFlight that require moving map capabilities, a cellular model iPad might be more suitable. Keep in mind that although the iPad Mini with just Wi-Fi is more affordable, pilots using ForeFlight Mobile or similar apps may need to invest in an external GPS receiver for accurate positioning.
iPad Private Pilots
For private pilots flying for leisure or personal transportation, a larger screen is beneficial when using apps like ForeFlight, which display detailed charts and maps. The iPad Air and iPad Pro models offer bigger screens, with the iPad Pro available in 12.9-inch and 11-inch sizes. Both models provide ample power and performance for flying, and the cellular iPad models include built-in GPS capabilities.
When choosing between the iPad Air and iPad Pro, PPLs should consider their budget and desired features. The iPad Air is a more affordable option, while the iPad Pro models offer top-tier performance and additional features like the Liquid Retina XDR display on the 12.9-inch model. Either 64GB or 256GB of storage should be sufficient for most private pilots, depending on their app usage and preferences.
iPad Commercial Pilots
Commercial pilots require the most advanced tools and technology to ensure smooth and safe operations. The larger iPad Pro, particularly the 12.9-inch model, is ideal for commercial pilots who need the biggest screen and most powerful processor. The iPad Pro models also offer more storage options, with capacities up to 2TB. A cellular model is recommended for commercial pilots to maximize connectivity and moving map capabilities in apps like ForeFlight.
When it comes to iPad accessories, commercial pilots may benefit from investing in high-quality mounts, external batteries, and protective cases to ensure their iPad remains secure and functional during long flights and challenging conditions.
Photo by Chris Leipelt on Unsplash
Generation iPad
I began this post by pointing out that the best iPad for flying depends on the pilot’s specific needs and preferences. Student pilots may find the iPad Mini 6 to be the perfect balance of performance, size, and affordability, while private pilots may prefer the larger screens of the iPad Air or iPad Pro. Commercial pilots will likely benefit from the top-tier performance and features offered by the iPad Pro models. Regardless of the iPad or tablet chosen, pilots across all levels will appreciate the wealth of information and convenience these devices bring to their flying experience.
With this guide, you should now have a better understanding of the best iPad models for pilots, essential features to look. iPads have revolutionized the way pilots navigate and manage their flights. With cellular connectivity, these tablets offer real-time updates on weather and ADS-B traffic data, ensuring safer and more efficient flying experiences.
The variety of screen sizes available caters to different cockpit setups and personal preferences, while the new iPad models released since 2021 continue to push the boundaries of performance and features. By utilizing an iPad in the cockpit, pilots can benefit from a versatile and powerful tool that simplifies flight planning and enhances situational awareness, making it an indispensable asset in modern aviation.
