#AIR NAVIGATION APP HOW TO#
#AIR NAVIGATION APP PORTABLE#

When you begin to explore the apps available for the aviation market, you’ll find everything from simple electronic logbooks to complete navigation suites that provide detailed moving maps, legal approach plates, weather graphics (from ADS-B or subscription), document organization, flight plan filing and more. While you might think that the first thing you need is a tablet PC, I suggest your first decision be the app or software that you will use. Now let’s take a look at what it takes to get connected and what being connected can mean for you. certified avionics, but they’re also discovering that the features available in the apps often exceed those of panel-mounted boxes. Pilots are getting connected and enjoying not only the financial benefits of using a tablet PC in the cockpit vs. Even Avidyne announced that their new IFD series was designed with WiFi and Bluetooth capability in mind-all to be activated by a later software version. Garmin with their Connext Wireless Cockpit and Aspen with their Connected Panel). Today, not only do pilots want it, but the major avionics manufacturers are embracing the concept and offering their own versions (e.g. As an avionics consultant, I also remember thinking that this technology was just for “computer geeks” and that the average pilot would not embrace it.

When I first saw a number of software companies introducing aviation apps for the Apple iPad, I remember thinking: “The avionics manufacturers are NOT going to like this!” Let’s face it Garmin wants to sell you a portable GPS and an MFD. However, software designers recognized the chance to use the Apple iPad in the same role and the “digital cockpit” was born. Still, EFBs were expensive, the hardware was clunky, and there were readability issues, so they really didn’t catch on. Soon, EFBs (Electronic Flight Bags) took the concept to the next level with “legal” approach plates and features intended for the serious IFR pilot.

Naturally, GPS technology steadily improved with moving maps that could display amazing detail and other features that pilots really use.

But, they could still tell you where you were and how to get home in the event of a problem with primary nav equipment. Twenty years ago, portable GPSs had only basic mapping and limited features. That’s why many pilots (most IFR pilots) have always liked the concept of having a portable GPS and a portable comm onboard. Are YOU “Connected?” By Bob Hart This article was written in late 2015.

#AIR NAVIGATION APP PORTABLE#

#AIR NAVIGATION APP HOW TO#

Air navigation app