iPad Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the differences between the models of iPads currently available from Apple?
2. What are the internal storage options and how much do I really need?
3. What is the difference between the Wifi-only iPad and the iPad with LTE?
4. I have iPad LTE – do I still need an external GPS?
5. I bought an iPad LTE – do I need to activate the wireless service for the internal GPS to work?
6. What are my options for adding an external GPS?
7. What wireless connection type does the Dual, Garmin and Bad Elf Pro use to connect to the iPad?
8. Do I need an LTE model to get Bluetooth?
9. What is the difference between WiFi and Bluetooth?
10. When I put the iPad in Airplane Mode the Bluetooth GPS will not connect to the iPad. What’s wrong?
11. Do the external GPS receivers work on iPhone and iPod Touch as well?
12. How do I know the external GPS is providing me location information?
13. Do the external GPS receivers decrease iPad battery life when in use?
14. Can I add in-flight weather to the iPad?
15. Can I legally use the iPad as a replacement for paper charts for VFR or IFR flight?
16. Is the iPad a reliable paper chart replacement?
17. How do I update my apps?
18. What options do I have for getting charts outside the US?
19. What is the typical iPad battery life?
20. Can I charge the iPad from my airplane’s 12v-24v plug?
21. I don’t have a power source in my airplane – what are other options for backup power?
22. What are the main ways people are mounting iPads in the cockpit?
23. What are my options for securing an iPad in my lap in the cockpit?
24. I want to use the RAM Cradle – do I have to remove my iPad’s protective cover each time?
25. What options are available for reducing screen glare in the cockpit?
26. What about Android apps?
27. Where can I find more information on flying with the iPad?

What are the differences between the models of iPads currently available from Apple?

Apple currently offers 5 models of iPad: the iPad Mini 5, the iPad 10.2″, the iPad Air 10.9″, the iPad Pro 11″ and the iPad Pro 12.9″. The iPad 10.2″ (good), iPad Air 10.9″ (better) and the iPad Pro 11″ (best) feature nearly the same external dimensions and pilots will find that all three work very well with nearly every aviation app available.

The 10.2″, 10.9” and 11” specs on the mid-size models refer to the screen’s diagonal dimension, meaning these models feature more screen real estate than the original iPad, while maintaining a similar form factor.

The iPad Pro 11″ improves on the original iPad Pro 10.5″ design by including a large edge-to-edge display, high-performance processor, and FaceID to quickly unlock the device (read our PIREP on this model here). It also includes a bright, high-resolution liquid retina display with an anti-reflective coating. The latest iPad Pro 12.9″ model represents a major improvement over the original iPad Pro 12.9″ – it is 25% smaller while retaining the same display size, thanks to the edge-to-edge screen. The footprint is about the same as a sheet of paper, so it’s a good fit now in most GA cockpits. It comes at a premium price, but we can recommend this model now for those who want the most screen real estate possible.

The iPad Air 10.9″ is essentially a more powerful version of the original iPad Pro 10.5″, incorporating Apple’s powerful A14 processor. This provides performance that is about on par with the new iPad Pro, but for several hundred dollars less.

The budget-friendly model referred to now as just “iPad” is no slouch and was recently updated with a larger 10.2″ screen and Apple Pencil support. This is a great buy for less than half the price of the Pro model, but there’s no doubt the iPad Mini, Air and Pro models will offer significantly better performance when flying with graphics-intensive aviation apps.

If you’re looking for an iPad with a smaller footprint, consider the iPad mini. This version measures 7.87″ by 5.3″ and will be a better fit in cockpits with tighter constraints. It runs at the exact same screen resolution as the full-size iPad model, so all the iPad apps currently available are compatible with it. It was updated in 2019 with the latest high-performance A12 processor, which puts its performance nearly on par with the iPad Pro. It also includes the anti-reflective screen coating which pilots will find useful in the cockpit (read our PIREP on this model here). For a sense of the size, here’s a picture of an iPad Mini 5 in a Cessna 172 cockpit.

If you’re using an iPad 3, 4, Air 1, Air 2, or Mini 4, it may be time to consider an upgrade. While most apps will still run on these models, the processor is noticeably slower. You may find map redraws and other higher-end features to be frustrating or not available. Plus, the latest version of Apple’s iOS platform won’t run on the original iPad 1 – 3, so you’ll be stuck on an older version.

Full iPad specifications are available from Apple. Our top two picks for pilots would be the iPad Pro 11″ or iPad Mini 5, depending on your size preference – both configured as WiFi-only with 256GB of internal storage. With that being said, the iPad Air 10.9″ model with 256GB could be viewed as a better value over the Pro 11″ model after upgrading the internal storage and is more than capable of supporting all the latest features available in aviation apps today. See our buyer’s guide for a more detailed analysis.

What are the internal storage options and how much do I really need?

Apple offers multiple versions of internal memory options for iPads: the entry-level iPad is available in two sizes, either 32GB or 128GB, while the newer Mini and Air models feature are available in 64GB and 256GB sizes. The Pro models go even bigger, with the option to upgrade to 512GB and 1 TB storage options.  Downloading all the VFR & IFR charts for the entire United States across multiple data cycles can take nearly 20GB, so even the smallest option available can work well.

However, consider that you may use the iPad for more than just aviation (e.g., pictures, videos, other apps), so you’ll want to leave open some free space for those items. The iPad’s storage is not upgradeable, so you have to commit to a size up front. If in doubt, go with the 256GB option; 64GB may sound like a lot now, but it doesn’t leave much room for future growth as new aviation databases and features are introduced and your photo and music libraries continue to expand.

What is the difference between the Wifi-only iPad and the iPad with LTE?

All iPad models offer Wifi connectivity to the Internet, so you can connect to your home network, your office network, a local coffee shop, etc. But you can also buy an upgraded LTE model that receives wireless data from AT&T or Verizon (for a monthly fee). The benefit to pilots with the LTE model is that it also contains an internal GPS receiver, which is useful for showing your aircraft’s position on aviation map applications (although it has some limitations). The LTE model also allows you to download weather and file flight plans on the go (although it does not work in the air). But again, either model is fine for aviation use. Just consider whether you’re willing to pay that additional monthly fee for the LTE service.

I have iPad LTE (which has an internal GPS) – do I still need an external GPS?

The internal GPS should work fine for most pilots, but it does not offer as precise of a navigation fix as when using an external iPad GPS and the GPS may drop out. When using the iPad with only the internal GPS in your lap in the cockpit, we’ve found that the GPS tended to lose signal reception intermittently. Sometimes the iPad will not lock onto GPS again until you reboot your iPad. If you plan on using the internal GPS, make sure the iPad has a clear view of the sky for best performance. Read more

I bought an iPad LTE – do I need to activate the wireless service for the internal GPS to work?

The internal GPS on an iPad LTE is completely independent from the cellular antenna, and does not require LTE service to be activated from AT&T or Verizon to work properly. You could buy an LTE iPad and use the GPS without ever activating your service.

What are my options for adding an external GPS?

Wireless GPS

• The Dual XGPS 150 has self-contained rechargeable battery that lasts up to 8.5 hours.
• The Dual XGPS 160 can connect to 5 devices at once and features a 10 hour battery life.
• The Garmin GLO 2 GPS can connect to 4 devices at once and includes a 12 hour rechargeable battery.
• The Bad Elf Pro GPS uses Bluetooth to connect to 5 devices simultaneously and includes an LCD status screen.
• The Bad Elf Pro+ GPS adds a barometric pressure sensor and the longest battery life (35 hours) of them all.

All of these units have the same basic performance, and are in the same general price range. The decision comes down to personal preference, especially whether you want a screen and how much battery life is important to you. Note that the Dual XGPS 150 is limited to connecting to one device, while all the others allow you to connect one GPS to multiple iPads.

Another option is to use an ADS-B receiver containing an integrated GPS. You have four options: Stratus (works with ForeFlight, WingX, FlyQ, and others), Sentry (works with ForeFlight only), Garmin GDL 50/51/52 (works with the Garmin Pilot, ForeFlight, Fltplan GO) and the Dual XGPS170/190 (works with WingX, FlyQ, ForeFlight). See below more information on wireless iPad ADS-B weather receivers.

What wireless connection type does the Dual GPS, Garmin GLO and Bad Elf Pro use to connect to the iPad?

These wireless GPS receivers use Bluetooth to connect to the iPad. They must be configured via the iPad settings page, and the devices must be “paired” together. Reference the Dual GPS User’s Guide (PDF) for more information on how to wirelessly connect the devices.

Do I need an LTE model to get Bluetooth?

No. All iPads have Bluetooth built-in, and all iPads work with the Dual GPS and the Bad Elf GPS.

What is the difference between WiFi and Bluetooth?

Both allow you to connect your iPad wirelessly. Bluetooth is shorter range, and allows for usually one connection (like the Dual GPS). WiFi is longer range and allows multiple iPads/iPhones to connect to a wireless network for internet access. WiFi is also a common way to connect wireless accessories to the iPad (like the Stratus or Sentry weather receiver).

When I put the iPad in Airplane Mode before flight the Dual Bluetooth GPS or Garmin GLO GPS will not connect to the iPad. What’s wrong?

Airplane Mode disables most of the wireless connection points on the iPad, including WiFi and cellular data (the internal GPS found on certain iPads will still function in Airplane Mode). If you’re using an external GPS, go ahead and turn Airplane Mode ON, but then manually go back in to the settings and turn on WiFi to allow your third-party accessory to connect (Bluetooth stays on in Airplane Mode). This will ensure all other non-essential wireless radios are turned off, which will increase battery life and reduce the possibility of interference with panel-mount avionics.

For specifics on how to configure the iPad for each type of accessory during preflight, check out this post: iPad Wireless Settings.

Do the external GPS receivers work on iPhone as well?

Yes, the Bad Elf, Dual GPS, Garmin GLO, Sentry, and Stratus are certified to work on all iOS devices.

How do I know the external GPS is providing me location information?

Two of the GPS-only receivers have free apps available in the app store that offer some additional resources:

• Bad Elf GPS: Bad Elf Utility App allows you to see that it’s connected, and can provide firmware updates
• Dual GPS: Bluetooth GPS Status Tool allows you to see GPS coordinates and satellite reception status

When using Stratus or Sentry you can view the satellite reception status in the Devices section of ForeFlight; when using the GDL 50, you can view satellite status from the Settings menu.

Do the external GPS receivers decrease iPad battery life when in use?

Yes – the GPS receivers can decrease battery iPad life by nearly 40% during continuous use.

Can I add in-flight weather to the iPad?

Yes! This is a very popular upgrade. There are two main sources of in-flight weather.

ADS-B: subscription-free and ground-based. Requires portable Stratus or Sentry weather receiver and the ForeFlight iPad app, the Garmin GDL 50 weather receiver and the Garmin Pilot app, or the Dual XGPS190 weather receiver with the WingX and FltPlan Go. Learn more with our ADS-B Receiver Comparison Guide.

SiriusXM: If you prefer a satellite based data-link weather service and don’t mind paying a monthly subscription, then the Garmin GDL 51/52 would do the trick. The GDL 51 is XM only and works with ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot. The GDL 52 receives both ADS-B and XM for the best of both worlds.

Can I legally use the iPad as a replacement for paper charts for VFR or IFR flight?

Yes, under FAR Part 91 flying (majority of General Aviation), you can legally use an iPad that has current charts installed for both VFR and IFR flights. For technical info, refer to the iPad Legal Briefing for Pilots for additional guidance on Electronic Flight Bags.

On a more practical note, is the iPad a reliable paper chart replacement?

At Sporty’s we have been flying with the iPad since the day it came out in 2010, and have found it to been very reliable for displaying electronic charts and aviation data in the cockpit. We use it as our main source of charts in all our flight operations, from local flight-training missions to cross-country trips in our Piper Aztec – and it hasn’t let us down once. We still recommend carrying some type of backup, whether a local VFR Sectional or a backup approach chart or two for IFR pilots (or even a second iPad or iPhone with current data installed).

How do I update my apps?

When an update is available for any of your installed applications, you’ll see a red badge on the App Store icon on the iPad home screen. Open the App Store program, and you’ll then tap on your profile picture at the top right of the screen to see available updates. App updates can also be set to download automatically (from the Settings App, iTunes and App Store page). Most updates are free.

What options do I have for getting charts outside the US?

If you’re looking for Canada or the Caribbean, ForeFlight Mobile offers subscription options for these regions. For a larger collection of international charts, including VFR and IFR charts for many European countries, check out the international subscription options in the Garmin Pilot app.

What is the typical iPad battery life?

Out of the box you can expect about 10 hours of battery life when using it for everyday tasks like surfing the web or reading an e-book. When using it in the airplane with a GPS and a moving-map application, expect the battery to last in the 4 to 6 hour range. Check out this article for information on getting the most out of the battery.

Can I charge the iPad from my airplane’s 12v-24v plug?

Yes, you can purchase a USB 12-24V Charger. This is specially designed for the iPad’s higher 2.1 to 2.4 amp power requirement (not all chargers will effectively charge an iPad).

I don’t have a power source in my airplane – what other options are there for supplying backup power to an iPad?

For extended flights without access to charging, Sporty’s offers a compact Backup Battery system. This portable power supply will provide up to an additional 10 hours of battery life.

What are the main ways people are mounting iPads in the cockpit?

The easiest and most portable way to secure the iPad in the cockpit is with an iPad kneeboard (Sporty’s sells many of these). For more secure and flexible options you can use the Ram Mount or Robust Mounting systems, which offers the option of using a yoke mount, glareshield clamp mount, or a suction cup mount. MyGoFlight also offers a collection of premium mounts that attach to your yoke or side window.

Recommended mounting options for:

• • Cessna high-wing (C152, C172, C182, etc.) – Suction, Yoke or Glareshield
  • Cirrus – Suction or Glareshield (or kneeboard)
  • Cessna Corvalis/400 – Suction or Glareshield (or kneeboard)
  • Beech – Beech Yoke Mount
  • Piper or Mooney – Suction, Yoke or Glareshield
  • Small/Mid-Size Jets – Kneeboard

All of these mounts are available for the iPad Air 1-3, the iPad Mini 1-5 and iPad, iPad Air 10.9″ and iPad Pro 11″. Shop all mounts here.

What are my options for securing an iPad in my lap in the cockpit?

• Simple – iPad Air Rotating Kneeboard or My Clip iPad Kneeboard
• Bi-fold Kneeboard – Tri-fold iPad Air Kneeboard, Bi-fold iPad Mini Kneeboard or ASA iPad Rotating Kneeboard
• Deluxe – Flight Outfitters iPad Slimline Kneeboard, Flight Outfitters Mini Slimline Kneeboard, or MyGoFlight iPad Folio C Kneeboard

Most kneeboards are designed for either the iPad Mini or iPad Air/Pro 9.7″/10.5″, although there are still some options designed for iPad 1 – 7.

I want to use the RAM Cradle – do I have to remove my iPad’s protective cover each time?

There are two RAM Mount cradle options. The EZ-Roll’R design (available for most iPads) is the standard and will securely hold the iPad, but you must remove any cover or case before using. The RAM X-Grip provides more flexibility and allows you to secure the iPad without removing a protective case.

What options are available for reducing screen glare in the cockpit?

There are no options currently available that completely eliminate screen glare (don’t believe it if you read it), but this screen protector is the best one we’ve ever seen.

What about Android apps?

Google’s Android system is a competitor to Apple’s iPad and iPhone. Sporty’s offers numerous apps for Android to get you started. If you’re looking for a comprehensive flight planning and in-flight chart & navigation app, check out Garmin Pilot for Android.

Sporty’s kneeboards and the Spring-loaded RAM Mount (10″ class and 7″ class both available) will work with most Android tablets, including the Nexus line.

Where can I find more information on flying with the iPad?

You can view a Beginner’s Guide to the iPad here: Pilot’s guide to the iPad – how to get started.

This site has dozens of great tips and tricks.

Sporty’s hosted a webinar that covers a lot of material, and the video can be found here: iPad Proficiency Webinar.

Looking for seminar covering advanced iPad topics? Check it out here: ForeFlight Advanced Features webinar

Sporty’s also has a biweekly newsletter on Flying with the iPad. Sign up here: iPad Newsletter.

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