Will a Standard Size Ipad fit the Yoke?

[cctsurf]

I have been using an 8" tablet for my moving maps for years.  I am thinking about moving to a 10.2" standard ipad to move to Foreflight.  Will it fit decently between the horns of the yoke, or do I have to go with the ipad mini?

My second, and related question is about the move from android to apple.  I have been using Naviator on Android for years, I love it.  I have just heard SO much about Foreflight that I would like to "test drive" it and see if it really that much better.  I'm not trying to start a religious war here, but I'm curious if anyone here has used both and if Foreflight is really that much better.  All of my devices are Android. (I've been a fan of Android since Star Trek TNG...)  I have NO other reason to move to IOS and quite honestly, I am quite averse to doing it, but if Foreflight is that much better, it would seem to be worth it.

Please, if you are just a fanboy, don't reply, I've run into enough of those.

Thanks.

[201Steve]

What is a fanboy

[carusoam]

CC,

You have been around here long enough…

When you ask people to not answer if they are fanboys… (you lost the focus of your own thread, before anyone else…)

You have opened the door to inevitable humor… 

1) You know there is a search function… and it works pretty well…

2) Every new iPad launch gets a new thread… a decade of new threads, since the iPad 1 was first launched…

3) The 10 inch iPad is favored by a few, but not a lot… because of its size…

4) When you use your iPad… do you prefer landscape or portrait?

5) If you can get your big iPad to fit in landscape mode… congratulations…

 

Are you a fanboy of starting new threads when plenty exist already?

 

Please recognize that this is humor… I just listed the reasons why…

Everybody has a high horse… some choose to ride it more often than others…

Best regards,

-a-

[MikeOH]

Back in the stone age when I learned to fly, I used a clipboard in my lap.  Now, I just put my 10.2" iPad in my lap!

Not the kind of answer you were likely looking for, but I thought I'd throw it out there as it works well for me.

[201er]

I mount full size ipad on the copilot yoke. That way it’s a bigger map, doesn’t block view of instruments, and isn’t in my way. It’s not something you look at continuously, just periodically so it works. I got a bran new, bottom of the line, standard iPad fo use solely for flying. It’s same or better than the top of the line ipad I used a few years ago.

[BobbyH]

2 hours ago, cctsurf said:

I am thinking about moving to a 10.2" standard ipad to move to Foreflight.  Will it fit decently between the horns of the yoke, or do I have to go with the ipad mini?

CC,

I currently fly with my iPad Mini mounted directly on the yoke.  It doesn't leave much room on the sides but is still comfortable to fly with hands on yoke.  My concern with a larger iPad you may not have easy access to the yoke and the height can block instruments.  Just my opinion and others may see it differently.  I do like Foreflight with the AHRS feature right in the sweet spot where my bifocals can easily read it.    

- Bob -

[lotsofgadgets]

I have both an mini and an iPad Air that I regularly fly with in the Mooney.   I am getting to the age where having to zoom in on approach plates on the mini is getting more frequent so I decided to use the iPad Air as my primary EFB.  Mounting it landscape on the yoke doesn't block the instrument panel, and it doesn't interfere when hand flying either.  I do notice that my Thumb hits the back of the iPad if I am using the electric trim switch, but that's a minor annoyance.  I just flew 10 hours this weekend and never once felt the need to adjust the position of the larger iPad.  I am using the Arkon mount as it lets me use either iPad without swapping the mount.  You can get them from Amazon or Sporty's

[geoffb]

Just changed from an old gen 5 to a 10 inch pro.  It fits ok.  This new one is about 1/2 in wider that the old one and much thicker.  Again, works ok.  If it’s for aviation only, I’d go smaller. Long ram arm on a control shaft clamp.  Moves it out beyond the yoke handles a little.

I’m on Garmin pilot.  Was on an android tablet originally.  More functionality on iOS and no Android bloatware.

Edited May 3, 2022 by geoffb

[kortopates]

These are purely personal preference choices. The only way you can find your answer is for you try them.

I personally prefer Garmin Pilot. And I have yet to see any of the main stream apps that run on both Android and IOS not have more functionality on the IOS version - if they even support both platforms. If the improved functionality is enough to give up your Android loyalty is for you to decide.  

[cctsurf]

I really appreciate the info on mounting options.  It is an interesting thought to just mount it in front of the yoke far enough to miss the hands.  I should also keep the kneeboard option in mind or the passenger yoke as well (this is honestly where I mount my ancient android).

My Android Tablet is acting up, and I really need to invest in an upgrade, but I really wish I could test fly ForeFlight before deciding.  However, I'm in the middle of nowhere and I don't know many other pilots around here, none of them use ForeFlight to my knowledge.

[icurnmedic]

13 hours ago, 201er said:

I mount full size ipad on the copilot yoke. That way it’s a bigger map, doesn’t block view of instruments, and isn’t in my way. It’s not something you look at continuously, just periodically so it works. I got a bran new, bottom of the line, standard iPad fo use solely for flying. It’s same or better than the top of the line ipad I used a few years ago.

Exactly my use and experience!

[201er]

1 minute ago, icurnmedic said:

Exactly my use and experience!

I can't imagine it another way. Mounting the ipad down on a kneeboard is completely nuts, but don't need to look at it enough to put it in front of the instruments. On the copilot yoke takes a small head turn. With a larger ipad screen, can see it clearly from that distance. Good use of space. Plus it gives passenger something to look at. They like seeing all the traffic and updates.

[Shadrach]

1 hour ago, 201er said:

I can't imagine it another way. Mounting the ipad down on a kneeboard is completely nuts, but don't need to look at it enough to put it in front of the instruments. On the copilot yoke takes a small head turn. With a larger ipad screen, can see it clearly from that distance. Good use of space. Plus it gives passenger something to look at. They like seeing all the traffic and updates.

Why is it completely nuts?  It avoids sun glare, is easy to enter info/change views and is easy to incorporate into the scan.  I'm not saying your copilot yoke mount is without merit, but it has downsides. I'm sure its great for viewing but seems sub-optimal for inputs, especially in turbulence.

Pilots have been using approach plates on knee boards from the time approach plates were invented up until fairly recently but now, it's just nuts...

Edited May 3, 2022 by Shadrach

[201er]

13 minutes ago, Shadrach said:

Why is it completely nuts?  It avoids sun glare, is easy to enter info/change views and is easy to incorporate into the scan.  I'm not saying your copilot yoke mount is without merit, but it has downsides. I'm sure its great for viewing but seems sub-optimal for inputs, especially in turbulence.

Pilots have been using approach plates on knee boards from the time approach plates were invented up until fairly recently but now, it's just nuts...

Kneeboarding is uncomfortable, forces head down, and more likely to cause spatial disorientation. Yoke mount (either yoke) keeps your head upright and you can see attitude changes in your peripheral vision. The only good reason I can see for old kneeboard style was hand writing but that’s now obsolete.

[Amelia]

1. The iPad mini fits nicely on the yoke, obscures nothing on the Mooney’s panel, and gets a steady stream of fresh air to keep it cool. Its aviation software (and ForeFlight is not your only option, just the most expensive) is highly intuitive , capable and efficient. For elderly eyes, I find the zoom to be useful. Bigger wouldn’t be better. A regular size would be in the way for me, as I have my seat all the way forward. Lap would not be an option, even if the gizmo weren’t hot and slippery.

2. if you are happy with your current system, why change? I liked my Samsung phone, used a regular laptop and desktop with Windows, was reluctant to switch systems and wary of the Apple interlocking components.

3. I hate KoolAid and fashion. Fast forward to the right sized iPad mini which I loved happy with it for years, tried out all the EFB options. Somehow then I tumbled into an iPhone pro max which has proved to be lovely backup, and then a (free) I-watch. Say, this KoolAid is right tasty! It works! The lost ithings find each other. The phone really is waterproof.  Not enamored of the Apple laptop, but it’s just a matter of getting used to it.

why don’t you find an I-friend and go flying with both systems? Then if the iPad works better, buy one and try each of the EFBs on the market for their free month before you buy.

 

 

[Rjfanjet]

I use an iFly, very happy with it. Stand alone GPS that pairs to my Stratus3 for ADSB in. Its an android platform. 

[Mooney Dog]

19 hours ago, cctsurf said:

I'm not trying to start a religious war here, but I'm curious if anyone here has used both and if Foreflight is really that much better. 

Oh its too late for that now! 

Kidding kidding. I personally use foreflight. Ive been using it since i started and ive liked it a bunch. Its a great pre flight app. Not such a great in flight app but its still workable. I tend to do a whole lot more on the panel these days. The other thing nice about foreflight, for me, is it similarity to jepdeckpro.

 

Foreflight also has a nice link to my phone as well, since i have invested now into the apple ecosystem. Do something on my ipad, its on my phone as well with a single tap. makes it rather nice.

 

Sadly, i dont think there are any Soong-type EFBs on the market yet, and if there where, i have a feeling id soon be out of a job. 

[Bob E]

Since a Foreflight app license is good for two devices plus desktop access via the web, I mount twin iPad minis on the pilot and copilot yokes, kept fully charged by two built-in USB ports in the panel. They both synch with the Garmin GPS via bluetooth (FlightStream 210). I've used this setup for several years now. The only concern is that on a hot day in direct sun, they have to be taken out of their cases or they will overheat.

Mounting a mini on the yoke doesn't block the view of any instruments if it's low enough.

Attached is a photo showing the pilot iPad mini in use and the copilot mount for it.  I fashioned them out of two old GPS yoke mounts, sheet metal, and spring clamps covered with duct tape to prevent scratches.  (Any creative solution has to involve duct tape!)

Edited May 4, 2022 by Bob E

[carusoam]

When going iPad in the cockpit…

In the sun, they can get hot… be ready to supply it some shade…

Used as a knee board, it may lose touch with the satellites… be prepared to supply it with WAAS data…

If one iPad is good, Cris showed me two iPads was even better…

If you have gone all Big G… it makes the most sense to have The Garmin pilot app….  And,  It comes with glide rings…

If you are a CFI, or are in the military… WingX has a free version for you…

Use caution with some entry level apps… they may be missing a whole bunch of features, to encourage buying the whole app…

The cool thing about most apps… you get a couple of back-up IDs… so your tablet can be backed up by your phone… 

PP thoughts only, not a tech guru…

Best regards,

-a-

[larrynimmo]

One of the many reasons why I felt that I could get my pilots license was because of four flight.

back in 2017…I bought my Mooney and started flight training.  I was so impressed with the features of foreflight that I gave up my latest and greatest passion for Samsung products.

I hated to say good bye, but flying and foreflight was my new passion….and I still get the “latest and greatest” but now it’s apple products.  I keep a mini6 on the yoke and a mini 4 on the copilot panel ready to spring into action.  And if you are thinking about a new mini get the 6 because it runs cooler abs it’s so much faster.  RAM now makes a dedicated mini6 cradle that has improved plastic reinforcements reducing vibration or flex.

my apple doesn’t fall far from my tree!

[Greg Ellis]

16 hours ago, Shadrach said:

Why is it completely nuts?  It avoids sun glare, is easy to enter info/change views and is easy to incorporate into the scan.  I'm not saying your copilot yoke mount is without merit, but it has downsides. I'm sure its great for viewing but seems sub-optimal for inputs, especially in turbulence.

Pilots have been using approach plates on knee boards from the time approach plates were invented up until fairly recently but now, it's just nuts...

While I don't think it is nuts to mount one on your leg, you have to be careful if flying a Mooney with a Johnson bar.  I cannot put anything on my right leg because it will interfere with the movement of the johnson bar.  I used to use a kneeboard when I first started flying my airplane (before I had an ipad) and it was a little bit of a pain to make sure it was out of the way of the swing of the Johnson Bar.  And I can't put it on my other leg because it is against the edge of the cockpit.  So I gave up on a knee board.  I tried using the ipad on the leg once.  Nearly broke the ipad putting the gear up.  Last thing I need when departing or arriving is adding one more movement to swinging the gear (meaning...remembering to get the ipad out of the way; it is tough enough to not accidentally unbuckle the seat belts).

[midlifeflyer]

This is an old photo. It's a standard sized iPad 2 or 3 on the yoke of a J. In that setup I preferred landscape but I used a rotating mount so I could change it as needed.

[lotsofgadgets]

19 hours ago, cctsurf said:

I really appreciate the info on mounting options.  It is an interesting thought to just mount it in front of the yoke far enough to miss the hands.  I should also keep the kneeboard option in mind or the passenger yoke as well (this is honestly where I mount my ancient android).

My Android Tablet is acting up, and I really need to invest in an upgrade, but I really wish I could test fly ForeFlight before deciding.  However, I'm in the middle of nowhere and I don't know many other pilots around here, none of them use ForeFlight to my knowledge.

Foreflight offers a free trial, signup with a different email address if you are a former subscriber.  I highly recommend watching the ForeFlight videos on their YouTube page so you aren't spending a bunch of heads down time in the cockpit trying to figure out where stuff is in the app.  Foreflight will also connect to XPlane and MS Flight simulator if you want to test anything out before actually getting in the cockpit.  

 

[Shadrach]

3 hours ago, Greg Ellis said:

While I don't think it is nuts to mount one on your leg, you have to be careful if flying a Mooney with a Johnson bar.  I cannot put anything on my right leg because it will interfere with the movement of the johnson bar.  I used to use a kneeboard when I first started flying my airplane (before I had an ipad) and it was a little bit of a pain to make sure it was out of the way of the swing of the Johnson Bar.  And I can't put it on my other leg because it is against the edge of the cockpit.  So I gave up on a knee board.  I tried using the ipad on the leg once.  Nearly broke the ipad putting the gear up.  Last thing I need when departing or arriving is adding one more movement to swinging the gear (meaning...remembering to get the ipad out of the way; it is tough enough to not accidentally unbuckle the seat belts).

This is why there is no correct way for everyone. I have been flying a Johnson Bar Mooney for 20 years and >1000hrs. Kneeboard has always resided on my right knee, never had a problem. I have only ever unbuckled a seatbelt when operating the gear once and it was intentional. The passenger and pilot side belts were inadvertently crossed and needed to be corrected to raise the gear.  I added a check to the pre takeoff flow and it’s not happened since. Oh and I’ll add that I’ve never found switching tanks to be problematic. Some folks find it near impossible and use a homemade  PVC pipe contraption to turn the valve. What all of this means is that different people have preferences based on height, shape, limb length, inseam, flexibility etc.  None of it is “just nuts”, it’s simply personal preference.

Edited May 4, 2022 by Shadrach

[drifter001]

I fly with a 11" ipad pro with a pivot case mounted to the yoke in landscape mode and it fits perfect if I offset the mount to the right side of the yoke. I also got their leg strap to mount it on my knee if i dont want it on the yoke or for when i fly other aircraft but the yoke mount works great in my E and you still get visibility of the instruments