Let’s talk about the best apps for pilots because as technology continues to advance, pilots now have access to a vast digital toolbox. Smartphone and tablet applications have revolutionized how pilots plan, navigate, and communicate.
But with so many options available, it’s tough to determine which are the top apps every aviator should have on their devices.
Recommendations for the Best Apps for Pilots
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting in the world of aviation, the right tools can make a significant difference. Knowing the most recommended pilot apps can streamline your tasks, from flight planning to in-flight navigation and even post-flight analysis.
In this quick review, we’ll delve deep into some of the top-rated and most downloaded general aviation apps and software available today.
1. ForeFlight – ForeFlight is one of the more popular app when we talk about the best apps for pilots, and it offers a suite of tools for flight planning, navigation, and weather tracking.
No doubt this is considered one of the best general aviation apps, and it provides real-time weather information, flight planning tools, airport information, and navigation tools, making it an excellent all-in-one solution for pilots.
The app also offers integration with popular flight management systems, making it easy to import and export flight plans.
2. Garmin Pilot – Garmin Pilot is another popular app that offers many of the same features as ForeFlight. The app provides real-time weather information, flight planning tools, airport information, and navigation tools.
It also offers integration with popular flight management systems and offers a range of add-ons, such as SiriusXM Aviation Weather and Garmin FliteCharts.
3. FltPlan Go – FltPlan Go is a free app that offers a wide range of tools for flight planning, navigation, and weather tracking. The app provides real-time weather information, flight planning tools, airport information, and navigation tools.
FitPlan Go also offers integration with popular flight management systems and offers a range of add-ons, such as ADS-B weather and traffic.
4. SkyDemon – SkyDemon is a popular flight planning software designed for European pilots. The software offers a range of tools for flight planning, navigation, and weather tracking. It provides real-time weather information, flight planning tools, airport information, and navigation tools.
The software also offers integration with popular flight management systems and can be used with a range of mobile devices.
5. FltPlan.com – FltPlan.com is a free online flight planning and tracking website that offers a wide range of tools for pilots. The website provides real-time weather information, flight planning tools, airport information, and navigation tools.
It also provides integration with popular flight management systems and offers a range of add-ons, such as ADS-B weather and traffic.
6. AeroWeather – AeroWeather is a popular app that provides real-time weather information for pilots. The app offers METAR and TAF data, as well as satellite and radar imagery. It also offers a range of features, such as automatic location detection and the ability to save favorite airports.
7. MyRadar – MyRadar is a weather-tracking app that provides real-time radar imagery for pilots. The app offers a range of features, such as animated radar loops, storm tracking, and weather alerts.
MyRadar also has integration with popular flight planning and navigation apps, making it easy to incorporate weather tracking into your flight planning.
8. Windy.com – This website is fantastic as an app or on your desktop. It clearly shows the wind speed and directions anywhere in the world, and you can easily choose what flight levels can help or hurt your fuel burn.
It includes rain, temperature, clouds, air quality, radar and satellite so you can find and see everything you need for your pre-trip or en route.
9. E6B Aviation Calculator – This app does so many things it’s amazing. Over 70 aviation calculations without needing multiple calculator apps. The E6B Aviation Calculator has wind, altitude, time, speed, distance, advanced fuel calculations, AND, weather reports including METARs, TAFs, AIRMET, SIGMET, PIREPs, cloud bases, and more. Download it on Apple here
Current prices for the best general aviation apps:
- ForeFlight – ForeFlight offers several subscription plans, including Basic, Pro Plus, and Performance Plus, ranging from $99.99 to $299.99 per year.
- Garmin Pilot – Garmin Pilot offers several subscription plans, including Standard, Premium, and Global, ranging from $79.99 to $149.99 per year.
- FltPlan Go – FltPlan Go is a free app with optional add-ons available for purchase, such as FltPlan.com Premium, which starts at $29.95 per year.
- SkyDemon – SkyDemon offers a personal subscription plan, including Basic, VFR, and IFR, starts at $148 per year.
- FltPlan.com – FltPlan.com is a free online flight planning and tracking website.
- AeroWeather – AeroWeather offers a free version of the app with limited features, as well as a Pro version with additional features for a one-time fee of $3.99.
- MyRadar – MyRadar offers a free version of the app with limited features, as well as a Pro version with additional features for a one-time fee of $2.99.
- Windy – Basic Web-based is free. Premium is $18.99/yr.
- E6B Calculator – 4.8 out of 5 stars – You can download it on Apple apps for $8.99.
It’s worth noting that prices may vary depending on your location and the specific subscription plan or add-ons you choose.
Additionally, some of these best apps for pilots (or software) may offer free trials or discounts for new users, so it’s always a good idea to check for any current promotions before making a purchase.
If they don’t list any promotions, don’t be afraid to reach out to them directly to see if they have any promotions that might be coming up. You never know, they might let you in on that discount early!
Whether you’re looking for flight planning tools, navigation aids, or weather tracking, there’s an app or software out there that can help, and these are just a few of the best apps for pilots in our opinion. By taking advantage of these tools, pilots can enhance their safety, efficiency, and overall flying experience.
In conclusion, with the digital age upon us, pilots have an arsenal of aviation apps at their fingertips. The digital cockpit has evolved, and by integrating these best apps for pilots, aviators can significantly enhance their situational awareness, pre-flight planning, and overall flight proficiency.
Looking to purchase a new airplane? You might want to read our article about financing a new airplane here.
Stay connected, stay informed, and most importantly, fly safely.
