Flight data apps

Keeping track of flight data is one of those key functions every pilot has to do. There are apps that handle everything from managing flight plans to viewing charts. This week, AOPA members recommend five apps that help make those processes and others easier.

1. Jeppesen Mobile FliteDeck (free in iTunes, but paid subscription required): The company describes this iPad app as a paperless solution for receiving flight data, including a chart viewer, weather, route mileage, airport diagrams, and terminal charts.
2. AirspaceAvoid for Pilots ($18.18 in Google Play): This smartphone app was created to help pilots avoid airspace infringement by keeping track of your position, altitude, speed and heading. It also knows where all the controlled, prohibited, and restricted airspace is located in your flight plan. The app will alert you using sight and sound.
3. MotionX GPS (99 cents in iTunes): A member who submitted this app for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch said “launch it at the start of your flight and forget about it until you land.” The app tracks an entire flight using the built-in GPS function of an iPhone or iPad. You can also open and view your past flights, but can fly them again using Google Earth.
4. Aviation Navigator ($51.68 in Google Play): This app allows users to manage waypoints and flight plans using GPS on a smartphone.
5. OpenFlightGPS (free on the Android platform): This tablet app allows users to download georeferenced aviation charts. The app is free, but only two maps at a time can be downloaded. OpenFlightGPS Unlimited is $9.99.

Please pass along your apps recommendations to me here. The complete list of apps I’ve reviewed since October 2012 is in AOPA’s online archive.