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IPAD & ACCESSORY BUYING GUIDE
Short Advice
Buy the Wi-Fi + Cellular and 256GB model of either the 11-inch iPad Pro, iPad Air 5th generation, or the iPad mini 6th generation (2021).
Please note that ForeFlight no longer supports the following iPad and iPhone models for new app updates: iPad 4 and older, iPad Air 2 and older, iPad mini 4 and older, and iPhone 7, 7+, SE, and older. Additionally, the following devices will soon lose support for new app updates: iPad (5th gen), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (1st gen), iPad Pro 9.7-inch (1st gen), iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X. See this page for the minimum supported iOS version and the status of the latest iOS version.
Long Advice
Step One: Choose Your iPad Size
For the best performance and a larger screen, the 11-inch iPad Pro is our top choice followed closely by the iPad Air 5th generation; or, if cockpit space is at a premium, the iPad mini 6th generation (2021) offers a smaller footprint. ForeFlight looks amazing on the 12.9-inch iPad Pro’s stunning Retina display; however, this option will leave you with a little less elbow room in the cockpit.
Step Two: Choose your Connectivity
Next, choose between Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular models. The Wi-Fi + Cellular iPads contain the internal GPS chip that can be used to activate moving map capabilities in ForeFlight.
The Wi-Fi only models can be paired with an external GPS like the Bad Elf Pro to provide location fixes in flight. Other options include Sentry which provides GPS positioning as well as in-flight weather and traffic via ADS-B.
An important thing to note is that a data plan is not required to use the iPad Wi-Fi + Cellular model's GPS capabilities; however, a data plan is handy for checking preflight weather and filing or amending flight plans when a Wi-Fi network isn't available.
STEP THREE: CHOOSE YOUR STORAGE
Storage options are 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB (options vary based on iPad model).
We strongly recommend the 128GB option or higher. ForeFlight Mobile requires about 15.5GB for all of the U.S. airport diagrams, A/FD sheets, instrument procedures, documents, VFR sectionals, and IFR enroute charts. Canadian data can total 11GB. However, those requirements are reduced if the entire country is not downloaded at once. For example, downloading US states east of the Mississippi would require around 5GB. With 128GB and up, you will have plenty of room for ForeFlight, plus other apps, movies, or music.
Where to Buy
Purchase Your iPad
- At Apple Store
- At authorized Apple retailers
- Online via the Apple website
Visit www.apple.com/ipad/compare to compare all iPad model pricing and features.
Find great deals on refurbished devices with Apple's Refurbished iPad Deals.
Recommended Accessories
Sentry Plus Portable ADS-B Receiver
The best gets better with new features such as automatic on-device track logging, g-Load meter, support for FLARM traffic, and much more, all with an even longer battery life. Sentry Plus is available for purchase now.
Sentry Portable ADS-B Receiver
Sentry offers inflight weather and traffic on ForeFlight, AHRS, internal WAAS GPS, longer battery life, onboard storage for weather replay, and a CO sensor and alarm system for added safety. Sentry is available for purchase at Sporty's Pilot Shop.
Sentry Mini Portable ADS-B Receiver
Sentry Mini offers inflight ADS-B weather and traffic, and GPS data in ForeFlight at an inexpensive price. With a compact form factor and simple out-of-the-box operation, Sentry Mini delivers the essential features for safer flying.
Explore More Connectivity
Our ForeFlight Connect platform enables portable and installed avionics to connect with ForeFlight Mobile and deliver capabilities like two-way flight plan transfer, ADS-B weather and traffic, backup attitude, and GPS position.
Check out our detailed connectivity guide
iPad Accessories
These are accessories that we use ourselves. We don't accept any paid product placements. We're always looking for new ones to try - if you have something to recommend, please send us your experience!
PIVOT Case
PIVOT’s patented tablet case and universal mounting system, designed specifically for use by pilots in the cockpit, combines a high-performance streamlined case and mount in models available for all popular EFB devices. The PIVOT system is simple, durable, affordable, and scalable to your operation.
Learn More at Pivotcase.com