10 Best Pilot Kneeboards in 2023 for Student, Private, and Commercial Pilots
The best pilot kneeboards are those that fulfill their purpose given the restraints of the cockpit size and the prefererences of the pilot. They are an essential item of flight gear as they provide a convenient place to keep track of important information such as flight data, frequencies, and other information transmitted during radio calls. For the more qualified aviators and commercial pilots they are a place in which to jot down important IFR information and other data.
A very basic kneeboard might be just a firm place on which to hold a notepad or for securing checklists. Student pilots on a budget might also use such a standard kneeboard to hold charts. It will probably have a single plastic strap and a pen holder. It might also have a crosswind component graph and a light gun signal key printed on it.
iPad kneeboards are obviously designed to hold an iPad firmly during flight. Even the simplest tablet kneeboard should be capabale of holding the iPad or iPad mini in place where it won’t be dislodged by control movements or bumpy air.
The kneeboard encourages cockpit organization by providing a place to store items such as plastic checklist pages. It’s where the inflight note taking happens, for jotting down radio frequencies, runways in use, wind speed & direction, and the QNH or QFE.
Think of the aviation kneeboard as the pilot’s desk. Whether you’re flying in a modern light aircraft or a vintage aircraft like a Tiger Moth, a tidy desk not only makes flying easier but also safer, lest anything fall and jam in any cockpit control linkages.
Photo by Jose Lebron on Unsplash
Pilot Kneeboard Sizes
Pilot kneeboards are available in a variety of sizes and styles, and they can be customized to meet the needs of any pilot. There are many different types of pilot kneeboards available on the market, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and new products do occasionally appear to challenge the established models. These new models are sometimes designed by pilots who have found flaws in those they have been using.
Most will have at least one adjustable elastic strap with clip together ends or a velcro strap for fixing it to the thigh.
Many are now first and foremost iPad kneeboards i.e. they hold an EFB (electronic flight bags). Depending on your tablet of choice you can buy one for your iPad Air, iPad Mini, iPad Pro, or any other electronic device or cell phone.
Here is a list of some of the best pilot kneeboards available today. As you can see, they differ in many respects as they’ve been designed for a variety of flight types.
MyGoFlight EFB Pilot Kneeboard
The MyGoFlight EFB Pilot Kneeboard is a top-quality kneeboard that’s designed specifically for use with electronic flight bags (EFB) e.g. an iPad. It features an attachable tablet holder, as well as plenty of storage space available to secure pens and pencils.
It’s one way to keep your iPad Mini safe while you’re flying. The detachable clipboard can be attached magnetically so it stays put when not being used; plus there are multiple pockets throughout this durable case that allow quick access. One-handed operation makes taking out devices easy no matter what situation arises: whether during preflight or before reaching your destination airport.
- Lap Desk Functionality: The MyGoFlight Folio C can be used as a simple kneeboard or even as a lap desk, allowing pilots to use it for various purposes, including holding their aeronautical charts and other essential documents. The left panel has a small mesh pocket for storing pens, pencils, or other small items.
- Hold Electronic Devices: With the growing reliance on electronic devices for flight planning and navigation, the MyGoFlight Folio C has been designed to accommodate devices like the iPad Mini and iPad Air. This versatility ensures that pilots can have all their essential tools and information at their fingertips.
- Portrait Mode: The MyGoFlight Folio C also supports portrait mode, which is particularly useful for pilots who prefer to use their devices vertically when reviewing approach charts or other flight materials.
MyGoFlight EFB Pilot Kneeboard
The electronic flight bag VFR/IFR detachable clipboard adheres magnetically for stable note taking. Pilot’s kneeboard, clipboard, lapboard, and everyday case securely holds and protects your iPad Pro 9.7”, 10.5”, 11”, iPad Air 1/2, iPad 2, 3, 4, 9.7”, 10.2”, or any other 9”-11″ tablet.
ASA VRF Pilot Kneeboard
The ASA VRF Pilot Kneeboard is another great option for those who use EFBs. It has a similar design to the MyGoFlight model but also includes an integrated clipboard that allows you to take notes during your flight.
This durable brushed aluminum VFR kneeboard gives pilots everything they need in one place, from important information about visibility and communication frequencies right down to how many minutes it’ll take before reaching cruising altitude with this particular type of aircraft. All this information is conveniently located on the custom-designed surface; specifically formulated by experts who know exactly what’s required while piloting.
ASA VRF Pilot Kneeboard
The durable brushed aluminum VFR Kneeboard is a great way to organize your flight data, providing a strong surface for inflight note-taking as well as quick access to important VFR information in the form of a permanent placard. This new version has updated information to reflect modern cockpit needs, including VFR ceiling, visibility and cloud clearance,
FlyBoys Classic Kneeboard
FlyBoys Classic Kneeboard is the ultimate flight kneeboard for commercial and general aviation pilots. It’s a favorite among military pilots. The ultra-rugged D600 fabric ensures years of trouble-free use in the most demanding environment while a flexible design allows you to customize your kneeboard with checklists, inflight guides, and more.
The included flexible plastic clipboard (FB1060 ) is perfect for holding paper charts and other materials.
FLYBOYS Classic Kneeboard
TABLET SUPPORT: Combine the Classic Kneeboard with the PIVOT Low Profile Kneeboard Adapter and appropriate PIVOT case to support your EFB tablets.
FLEXIBLE: The Classic Kneeboard also features seven eyelets for securing notes, checklists, inflight guides, charts, cards, and more. The Eyelet Strip can also be detached when not needed.
Destination Departure Pilot Kneeboard
The Destination Departure Pilot Kneeboard is a brushed aluminum kneeboard with a strong pen holder at the top. It’s probably more ideal for short VFR flights as some users report that the clip is too strong for an iPad screen.
It also has a soft strap and strong velcro attachments to ensure it stays in position on your leg while the flight controls remain accessible. The aluminum material makes it a durable item. The cushioned edges protect hands from grazes and knocks should any sudden movement be required.
Destination Departure Pilot Kneeboard
Dimensions: 5.5” x 8” kneeboard, 4.5” x 1.5” clip, 1.5” wide elastic strap aluminum strong construction with a flexible plastic clip pen holder that attaches to the kneeboard clip for any aviation accessories.
Fabric strapt insures a perfect fit for all leg sizes, men or women as well as durable construction to prevent future rips or tears along with strong velcro ensuring attachment during all phases of flight.
Jeppesen VFR Trifold Kneeboard
Jeppesen’s VFR Trifold Kneeboard is the perfect tool for keeping all your essential aeronautical information & equipment front and center during flight. Made with 600D Denier Cordura polymer, this durable kneeboard has plenty of space to easily organize any aviation essentials you need on hand while flying.
It has two leg straps with velcro fasteners. It’s a versatile kneeboard that has a detachable clipboard so that it can be used independently of the kneeboard.
Jeppesen VFR Trifold Kneeboard
The kneeboard is made of durable materials and features a three-panel folding design that allows for easy storage and transport. When open, the kneeboard provides ample space to hold charts and other documents, and it includes a clear vinyl pocket for holding a flight plan, notes, or other reference materials.
ASA IFR Tri-Fold Kneeboard
ASA’s IFR Tri-Fold Kneeboard is perfect for pilots who need to carry more. This strong aluminum tooled clipboard is silkscreened with important IFR information and fits into a black 3-panel jacket. The left panel has ample room for small books, papers, and other items that don’t fit elsewhere.
The center panel holds the kneeboard under clear plastic with a pen/pencil holder and buttonholes on either side allowing a pilot to fold back one or both panels with the leg band. The right-hand panel contains a clear pocket for an approach plate or pilot’s operating handbook. There is also a buttonhole for a yoke-mounted microphone and clips for holding a flight log and other papers.
ASA IFR Tri-Fold Kneeboard
Strong aluminum tooled clipboard silkscreened with important IFR information fits into black 3-panel jacket. Has room for charts, books, flight computers, etc.
MyClip Multi Kneeboard Strap for Tablets
The myClip Multi Kneeboard Strap for Tablets and Phones is a lightweight, one-handed device that allows you to securely attach your electronic flight bag (iPad) while flying. The innovative design provides an easy on/off attachment system with no clips around the case; simply slide over it and snap it into place.
It’s not a pilot kneeboard, just a strap, but once the tablet is in place it effectively becomes a kneeboard.
MyClip Multi Kneeboard Strap for Tablets
- Replaces the MyClipKneeboard2 and the MyBigClip
- Fully adjustable plastic clips
- Works with tablets and phones from 3″ (7.5cm) to 12″ (30cm) and 0.85″ (2.16cm) thick
- Woven adjustable elastic leg strap
- Made in the USA
Flight Outfitters Slimline iPad Kneeboard
The Flight Outfitters Slimline iPad Kneeboard has a rotating cradle that allows you to use your tablet in either portrait or landscape mode. Two mesh pockets provide extra storage for documents and other small items, while the heavy-duty elastic strap ensures it stays secured to your leg. This is a reversible kneeboard that can be used on either leg.
- Rotating Cradle: One of the standout features of this kneeboard is the rotating cradle that can hold tablets of various sizes, and even the larger iPad Pro. The cradle allows pilots to switch between landscape and portrait mode with ease, making it an ideal choice for those who need to consult Jeppesen approach charts or other flight reference materials on their devices during a flight.
- Sturdy Mounting Bracket: A secure and robust mounting bracket ensures that your device will not slip off or move during flight, even in turbulent conditions.
- Streamlined Design: Understanding the need for limited cockpit space, this Kneeboard features a streamlined design that eliminates any unnecessary bulk, making it an ideal choice for pilots who prefer a more minimalistic approach to their gear.
Flight Outfitters Slimline iPad Kneeboard
- Two mesh pocket on the side of the kneeboard provide storage
- Expandable loops securely hold corners of the iPad to the bracket
- Heavy-duty elastic leg strap
- Weight (empty): .5 lbs.
ASA iPad Air Rotating Kneeboard
The perfect tablet kneeboard for your iPad, this binder has an elastic strap that ensures it stays in place while you’re flying across the countryside or making a water crossing. It rotates 360 degrees so there are always options when adjusting from profile to landscape mode. Plus with its variable tilt feature, it makes map reading and checking for landmarks so much easier, no matter the light conditions or the position of the sun.
ASA iPad Air Rotating Kneeboard
Designed by pilots for pilots, our high-quality iPad Rotating Kneeboard is covered with soft, leather-like material and features a wide hook-and-loop leg strap to hold the kneeboard in place during flight. Inside, the rotating iPad frame holds the device securely and allows for 360-degree rotation of the iPad.
AppStrap Pilot Kneeboard: Combat Tested for Maximum Reliability
The AppStrap Pilot Kneeboard is a popular choice among fighter pilots and private pilots alike, thanks to its combat tested design that ensures maximum reliability and durability.
- Standard Kneeboard: The AppStrap Pilot Kneeboard can function as a traditional kneeboard, providing a stable surface for pilots to jot down essential information and hold their Jeppesen approach charts during flight. The kneeboard’s simple design ensures that it can be used without any unnecessary complications.
- Compatibility with iPad Minis: This kneeboard is designed to be compatible with iPad Minis, providing a secure and stable platform for pilots who rely on electronic devices for flight planning and navigation.
- Flight School Approved: Many flight schools have adopted the this kneeboard as their go-to option due to its reliability and ease of use. Its combat-tested design provides the assurance that it will withstand the rigours of training and real-world flying conditions, making it an excellent choice for student pilots and private pilots alike.
AppStrap Pilot Kneeboard
- Designed to fit large cases less than 1″ thick
- Fits most tablets 8″-10″ wide ( or long )
- Instantly convert your protected tablet into a pilot kneeboard
- Unique Velcro-joint allows instant repositioning, sharing or stowing
- Switch from Portrait to Landscape with zero reconfiguration
LIFT Aviation Navigator L1 Leather Kneeboard
The LIFT Aviation Navigator Kneeboard is for pilots who want a premium leather kneeboarding experience that looks and feels just as good when not in use. The FIDLOCK™ quick adjustment buckle fit system allows you to easily change your mind, while the over-knee leg strap with silicone printed no-slip grip keeps it there during flight time. This model also comes with an expandable zippered pocket holding small items securely inside.
Pilot Kneeboards for the Modern Aviator
Pilot kneeboards have come a long way from the simple, traditional designs of the past. With advancements in technology and the increasing reliance on electronic devices such as iiPad Airs and other tablets, the demand for versatile and reliable kneeboards has grown. The Flight Outfitters iPad Kneeboard, MyGoFlight Folio C, and AppStrap Pilot Kneeboard all offer unique features and benefits that cater to the modern pilot’s needs, making them some of the best pilot kneeboards available on the market today.
But before making a purchase, it’s always a good idea to read pilot kneeboard reviews and consider factors such as personal preferences, device compatibility, and cockpit space constraints. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect kneeboard to enhance your flying experience.
The Basics of a Pilot Kneeboard
A pilot kneeboard is an essential piece of equipment for both pilots in their training days and experienced private pilots alike. The best pilot kneeboards offer a combination of functionality, convenience, and durability, ensuring that important information is readily accessible during flight. There are various types of kneeboards available, ranging from a basic kneeboard with a simple design to more advanced iPad mini kneeboards equipped with tablet compatibility.
Standard Kneeboards for Traditionalists
A standard kneeboard is a classic choice for pilots who prefer to keep things simple. These kneeboards typically feature a Velcro strap to secure the kneeboard to your leg, a small notepad for jotting down notes, and a place to hold Jeppesen approach charts. Some pilots may even find comfort in using the same kneeboard they had during their training days, as it provides a sense of familiarity.
Many standard kneeboards also include an in-flight guide for quick reference, offering pilot-friendly features such as a summary of crucial frequencies and airspace classifications. While these kneeboards may not be the best kneeboard for those who rely heavily on electronic devices, they remain a popular choice for most pilots who appreciate their simplicity.
iPad Mini Kneeboards for Tech-Savvy Pilots
With the increasing integration of technology into the cockpit, many pilots find iPad mini kneeboards an attractive option. These kneeboards are designed to hold an iPad mini, providing easy access to approach plates, electronic charts, and other important flight data. A key advantage of an iPad mini kneeboard is the built-in stand that allows pilots to position their device for optimal viewing.
Some such kneeboards feature a tri-fold design for additional storage space, expandable loops to accommodate various tablet sizes, and clips mounted on the exterior to keep essential documents secure. These kneeboards are compatible with both VFR and IFR flights and often have a power port for charging the device during flight.
Streamlined Kneeboards for Space-Conscious Pilots
For those flying a small plane where space is at a premium, a streamlined kneeboard may be the best choice. These kneeboards typically have a slim pocket and a small pocket to store essential items while maintaining a sleek profile. This design enables pilots to have their critical information readily accessible without taking up too much space in the cockpit.
Additional Considerations for Choosing the Best Kneeboard
When selecting the best kneeboard for your needs, consider factors such as tablet compatibility and whether you need a new window to view information printed on paper. Some pilots may prefer a full-size iPad kneeboard, while others may opt for a smaller size tablet kneeboard. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference and cockpit setup.
In some cases, a great kneeboard may come at an additional cost, but the investment can prove worthwhile for the convenience and functionality it provides. It’s also essential to consider the durability of the iPad case or kneeboard material, as it will need to withstand the rigours of frequent flights.
Kneeboards for Pilots As Gifts
Kneeboards for the pilots in your life make a welcome gift. They get a lot of wear and tear during their life (the kneeboards, not the pilots, though that may also be true) and consequently may be prone to damage if not looked after well. A velcro strap or the pen holders may break, for example.
Next to the flight bag and the aviation headset, pilot kneeboards are one of the first items on the student pilot’s shopping list. The latest models may also include a power port, they may be reversible with several pockets for an inflight guide and other documents.
The best pilot kneeboards are not necessarily the most expensive. You don’t need a top of the range tri fold reversible kneeboard in your flight bag if you’re just going for a VRF flight in the local area. You just need something on which you can jot down in flight pertinent information and that will hold maps.
