I use an iPad Pro 10.5", and really like the size. At some times it does feel a bit bulky but it's never gotten in the way. The best way to fly with this sized iPad is to ram mount it on the right seat's yoke so you essentially gain an MFD, or when with an instructor or another pilot on that side then I just let it sit in my lap. And I have always used it for primary nav on VFR flights, and looking down to my lap quickly was never an issue. Obviously not good to do in takeoff/pattern and landing so I set it aside then.
Stef in all seriousness would love to see an Australian Open vlog. I know its not aviation related but people travel all over the world for it. I also believe the roulettes will be there on Australia Day
I started my student pilot journey last year and I originally tried my wife's iPad (the regular variant) and it was too big in the C172 I fly. I ordered the Mini 6 as soon as it was announced and it's been a great fit in my cockpit. I've had no issues running/reading ForeFlight on it, but I'm just about to hit 30, so no eye sight issues to point to yet.
As I have gotten old and the mini 6 or a big flat screen tv are hard to read I use an invention called prescription glasses it’s amazing and they make the screen so clear again
I’ve got the iPad Air and love it for the flight planning or checking the weather/notams when I get to the flight school. I’ve bought a yoke mount for it but it blocks a few instruments in the Archer 3. I’ve found having a iPad knee board better for it in flight and like you, will always use paper and pencil for noting down things. Nice vid, cheers.
Hey Stef - I run a Mini 6 solely for flying and I have an iPad Pro 12.9 for my “daily driver” (which I often use as a second monitor for my MacBook through Sidecar). I find planning with the Pro much better, and it reverts to my backup in the cockpit… but so far I’ve never taken it out because it is massive. In a Cirrus with a side stick it may not be so bad.
Just traded it my iPad 7 for the iPad Mini 6 partly due to your original review. I found the font fine myself but maybe differences in our age. For me if I tap the screen in standby mode with the pencil it opens a full screen scratch note mode. You only have to press the corners when the screen is active. One wish is if the pivot case or mygoflight had a iPad mini 6 cases. They won't have them til q2 2022.
Thanks Glenn, I'll keep experimenting with using the Pencil as I'd like to do everything in one place on the iPad. And yes everyone's eyesight will be different so probably an age thing as you say!
While I can't comment on the size, a good tip on the writing with the pen. I used up until recently an iPad Pro 12.9 for writing my works when finishing my engineering degree. I probably wrote 400 pages in total on the iPad pro in replacement of text books. Like some have commented here, the pen is very slick on the display however, I put on a matte textured screen protector on it, and it was a massive improvement on the writability of the iPad. Definitely worth looking into if writing is a primary use for the device. That said, when I first got my PPL, I used an original 10" iPad in the cockpit, and found it a little too bulky, now that I've hit 40, I definitely think the vision might push me back to that size... Haven't used one since I recently got back into flying.
Went from 5 to iPad Air and back to 6. Love the 6. More practical in size. Perfect size for the Cirrus. Time to get reading glasses. That’s the solution. I wear transition lenses designed for the Cirrus cockpit. Spent some time with my optometrist to get the right lenses. Takes getting used to but once you’re used to them everything becomes easy again.
I've been using the iPad Mini 6 with the pencil, and although the pencil isn't really too useful in flight (although I love the quicknote / tap when locked to write), I use the pencil alongside Notability to annotate my instrument plates, and even do weight and balance, then print those pages out. I find that being able to highlight, zoom in and draw perfectly straight lines helps with precision and also with note taking, and less wasted paper after each flight. The pencil does come off the magnetic connector occasionally, so a different case might do well, but flying the DA42 (an aircraft with very limited space for the pilots), the mini 6 is smaller than a standard A5 kneeboard, I can have a kneeboard and the ipad on either leg, with enough space not to get in the way of the stick. Battery life and cellular reception is fantastic too, I've estimated the iPad can last approximately 3.5 - 4 hours on a flight with moderate brightness, and AvPlan running. Cellular, I get good reception even out in the country surprisingly. Although the iPad gets warm to the touch, it's never shut down on me. All in all a worthwhile investment, and fantastic for study/notes too!
I'm 49 and a CFI and I use an iPad Mini 6. It's not perfect and I also sometimes wonder if I'd want a larger screen (my eyes are bad enough to wear multifocal contacts, which just barely help for near vision), but sometimes the controls of the plane get in the way even of the Mini. I might feel differently in a Cirrus, but using a yoke and not being able to have a permanent mount somewhere - meaning the iPad sits in my lap - makes having a larger tablet difficult. I will say that I'm totally paperless; I use the Mini 6 exclusively while flying. I have paper in my bag in the back seat just in case but normally it's just me and the Mini 6 and I think that's great. It's a far cry from when I was in training and just had stacks of paper everywhere. (My students are the same, always rifling through giant binders of papers while trying to fly - it's actually a safety issue!)
Stef let me make you feel a bit better about being an 'older pilot'. I'm 66 and I still love my Ipad Mini 5 because it fits in the cockpit better. And I can still see it fine!
@@StefanDrury You were my inspiration to start sharing my flights (including the not so flattering ones) Mr. Drury. If you ever get to California we should go take a flight somewhere. Cheers-Ren
iPad Mini 6 and iPad Pro. The Mini in a Pivot Case with suction cup mount to left side window. iPad Pro for flight planning (and a million other things). I can open up the Pro on my lap if I need a big screen. I had a Mini 4, but I gave it to my nephew as a reason for me to upgrade to a Mini 6. Also have a kneeboard with a pad of paper. I like writing on paper. Old school, but after 26, 000 hrs of flying I have my habits.
hey stef nice video :) love to see how other people manage their cockpit. I am using a 12.9“ for daily stuff and work so not in the cockpit since its just to big. But i tried. Have used an 11“ pro there since i bought it when the air 4 wasnt around yet and i didnt wanted the older homebutton-style ipads around. Changed that for a mini 6 now and i am absolutely happy with it. But especially in multitasking it feels tiny! So to all the „old“ people: ipad air might be the perfect middleground. Actually one tip i use all the time for noting stuff down: in the notes app settings theres an option at the bottom for quick notes. If you tap the screen when locked the ipad starts a fresh note and you can also set it up so it opens the last created quick note again for some amount of time. That way i am as fast as with paper and have all i‘ve noted before right there. And i have a focus mode set up that starts itself as my ipad connects to the planes wifi. It only displays one page of apps with the flight related stuff on it, blocks notifications and most callers and opens up some shortcuts for siri-guided checklists ❤️
Currently sporting the iPad Pro 11 with a window suction mount for flying; It's incredible for IFR. The only real annoyance for me is switching between airplanes. I usually fly a Diamond and have it mounted on the window but mounting it on a Cessna obscures the yoke from its full range of motion - so it just sits on my lap for now in the 172/82. Other than that, it's a pretty good size and has worked well as my laptop, too.
I upgraded from an old mini a few years ago to the iPad Air 3 10.5 inch and it was so worth it. It’s amazing the new screen space and it’s a lot better than the small mini - the mini, I agree, is too mini 😅. I would upgrade maybe in a few years stef.
My iPad is on the whole flight, so I don’t need to unlock it. The only notes I need to write usually are ATIS, my clearance, and taxi route. I’ll rarely need to write something down in flight because I’m very fast to enter in headings, altitudes, and squawk codes into the avionics. If you aren’t fast about moving those knobs, you probably should have a quick writing solution. You could also multitask and setup a note-taking app next to your EFB app so they are both up at the same time.
Went from iPad Pro 11 inch to iPad mini 5 because of cockpit ergonomics. Have the diminishing eyesight for reading as well but the mini is still fine as it’s right in front of me on the yoke.
One tip I have for quick notes instead of what you described. With your pen, swipe diagonally from the bottom right corner to bring up the apple notes app. It's way better than having to unlock the screen and go into a scratch pad on your flight bag software.
Hey Stef love your content. I upgraded from the mini to the Pro 11. Everything about the pro is so much better and I love the size and it’s performance running efb’s etc.
Like a lot of other people I see, I own the iPad mini 6 and the pro 11”. I’ve been only using the mini in the plane but I’m planning on taking the pro a couple of times to see the difference although it wouldn’t be as good obviously since I don’t have the cellular version so I’d take both.
I'm not a pilot but I'm a Motorcoach/bus Operator I generally use my phone as my GPS unit when driving trips. I'm planning on getting an iPad mini this year for trips. To try at least.
Hi Stef, I just ordered a panel mount from Guardian for my home built KR-2S and plan to use split screen mode in ForeFlight on an iPad Air. The power on the back of the mount is hard wired so no need to worry about battery life, looks like a glass cockpit and is out of the way! $150 to $300 for the mount depending on which version iPad and they sell a fan for $50 that attaches behind the mount if you’re concerned about overheating. It’s a “poor man’s glass panel” for sure
I moved from the iPad mine 4 to a 2020 iPad Pro 11´´. I like the bigger size Pro a lot, using it a lot for all kind of things and all kind of cockpits. It´s a very good device in a Cirrus, not so much in our small 2-seat-aircraft. In the 152 or Aquila I usually don´t touch it, in the Cirrus I have it in my lap with no special holder. For take-off and landing I just shove it under my thigh. Using Foreflight only battery life is great, no heat issues. While instructing I still use a very small old-fashioned knee-board. Flying longer cross-countries in the Cirrus I use the iPad for clearances and keeping track of the flight. Back up is an iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Used the Mini until that magic age when not wearing glasses for 50-years of my life went out the door. Now I have used the larger Pro devices for a few years in my Cirrus. Not ideal if you want to use a paper knee-pad as well but for me that has gone as well. The side-sticks in the Cirrus are so conducive to using a larger device, that my mini has been regulated to the back-up and I would not swap the Pro for anything smaller.
Just an FYI... The iPad with the pencil when the screen is locked and you use the pencil to tap the screen you then bring up Notes. or with iOS 15 with the pencil you swipe from the bottom right you then have access to Quick Notes, which automatically saves in notes.
I use the new mini. I have also used the large pro although it is heavy and does have a tendency to overheat. I’m in a Cub so available space is a premium and the mini works best.
I use both the Mini 6 and an iPad 11 inch Pro with Foreflight. I use the Mini in smaller cockpits (Cubs, a Husky) and the larger Pro in C182 and C172 aircraft. I like the Mini the best, even if it is harder to see the the Pro 11 inch. I also use an iPhone for a backup. I use both iPads with a lap board. The Pro is really awkward in the smaller cockpit which have sticks rather than yokes. Size matters in a small cockpit...
I use the iPad Pro 12.7 inch. Absolutely love it. It works well in the plane because I can see a lot of the chart without having to scroll, or zoom. I also love using it for notes, BUT i completely agree with you paper and pen is superior to copy instructions from ATC. I fly with a knee board on my right leg (I’m right handed) and I just put set the iPad on my left leg without a kneeboard. I’ve tried to yoke mount my iPad and it just doesn’t work since it blocks too much of the panel from line of sight. The other benefit of the pro is it’s really bright in direct sunlight, doesn’t overheat, and the processor is fast. I’ll likely be upgrading to another pro 12.7 inch in the future. (Won’t lie though it would be nice to have a mini as well as a back up)
I have 12.9” iPad pro, and a lot of text in apps is not bigger, after changing text size. Like websites and looking at you youtube. Remember to compare in a store. It is a major point youtube reviewers comparing devices is missing.
I started having trouble reading the small devices in flight... I decided to try multi-focal contact lenses, which are legal to fly with here in the States. I have the lowest magnification, and they work GREAT! I can see so clear now - and it does not affect my far vision in any noticeable way. (It does take 30 days of wearing them before your eyes fully adjust - and you cannot fly with them in for that 30 day period - again, at least here in the States.)
Using Ipad 5 mini flying a Sportstar screw mount to the dash works a treat. Have a couple vents right behind the Ipad which I leave open. Never overheated and shut down but has gotten hot a few times. I always use paper maps as backup. I did have it with a suction cap but always let go at the worse moment eg coming into a circuit or on final. Have a Garmin 296 which I also always run as a secondary backup.
I've used an iPad Air 3 and have moved to a Lenovo Tab M8 FHD. Why? The iPad crashed on flights over 1.5 hours and overheated a lot. Size was okayish (10.5"), but in my opinion just a bit too big for a SEP cockpit. I am very, very satisfied with the M8 FHD, perfect size (8"), remains cool all the time, battery life is unbelievable AND it runs extremely stable! 4 hour flight? No problem! It is a bit slow though, for planning not super ideal, but it works. No factor while flying.
The one thing I can’t stand about the pro and Apple Pencil 1rst gen is the way it has to be charged; plugging into bottom of iPad lightning port. The new iPad and mini have the 2nd gen pencil which connects by magnet to the side to charge, much more convenient imo
Hey Stefan, I just wanted to thank you for your enormously helpful assessment of the iPad Mini 6. After a 6-week post-order delay, mine will be here very soon and I will be using it in the Grumman Tiger in which I just bought a quarter share. Given my Southern California location and the amount of glass in the aircraft, I will have to pay attention to possible overheating and that in turn will influence my decision re. how to mount it in the cockpit. The airplane does not have ADSB-IN so I will need to get a Stratus or something; your advice on that subject would be valuable. Meanwhile thanks again for your excellent videos.
I’d say your use and qualms for this device are very niche but understandable. Would almost need some sort of mount for the pad and to turn off the screen lock while in the plane for easier access, but sometimes pencil/pen and paper is just superior. Some things never change I suppose :)
Also just a very off topic hot tip. Elwood 7 eleven has a bloody terrific smoothy/frappe machine (only one in the state) best frozen classic lemonades!!
I use a full size iPad Pro 11” in my Mooney and honestly, it’s a little cramped. Maybe a bigger plane would be easier but honestly, I love the iPad and use it for more than just aviation. I probably won’t switch. I’ll keep what I have.
Stef, my wife and I have been enjoying your videos. I use an iPad Pro 11” for reference when I want to look at something during a flight, and a knee board with pen for all writing. I’m considering a Mini, so that I can have it mounted and always on and visible. I’d still use pen and paper though.
I use older iPad 6th gen yoke mounted in C172. There is lots of space still for the larger newer iPads. Aging eyes require glasses for reading the fine print but not needed for approach plates quick glance. Bigger screen size is better as you have more information on the screen at once. Such as secondary AHRS and map on the screen at once. I also like paper and pen on kneeboard for jotting down ATC instructions!
Hi , I use an IPad Air4 with the new Apple pencil. I fly mainly IFR in a Garmin Perspective based SR22. I've gone totally paperless in the cockpit now ,and love it. I find the note taking more than acceptable. In Avplan I can quickly go to the notepad and write down a clearance or frequency etc. Occasionally I'm not quick enough however, I just ask ATC to repeat no problems. On-screen size, at my age I feel the Ipad Air 4's screen would be the minimum size I could live with, hence why I didn't buy a mini.
Mate of mine used to use a 'full size' iPad on his knee. It always seemed too big and cumbersome to me. I used an iPad Mini and it was far better. We now have a tablet affixed in the cockpit so don't bother with them on our knees.
I too fly a Cirrus so lap space is not such an issue. I have tried everything from a mini upwards and now much prefer a 12.9 Pro. Visibility trumps space efficiency. In other aeroplanes where I would use a mount, the 12.9 would be too large. I have the pencil but struggle to get used to it. As per your comment, scribbling on paper is faster and easier.
I use a mini 5 with a Pivot case. By any measure, at nearly 69, I have "old" eyes - not a problem. I run Foreflight and have no issues, wouldn't change a thing.
I use Garmin Pilot on a Samsung Galaxy Tab S6, which is maybe a bit smaller than an iPad air. I recently picked up an iPad mini for another use, but put Garmin Pilot on it, and was surprised how small the text was. I can read it, but it does make me reach for the glasses more often. In my Skylane, I think it will be a backup to the larger tablet. On the larger tablet, I like to use the split view in GP and keep the traffic page up.
I can’t answer your question but you can probably set your iPad mini to unlock without your fingerprint. Also keep in mind Apple has a pretty good no questions asked returns policy if you wanted to get a iPad Air and test it
Sadly still part of the paper gang, not far enough into training to justify getting an EFB… especially if I’m locked away to within 25nm of the airport. Once I start my nav I’ll have to look into it. Great video, hope you’re doing well Stef.
Not sure if you’re aware but you don’t have to open the iPad Mini to write notes. You can start writing on the main screen when locked to make a note and it’ll open up a notes page to write on. For me though I transitioned from an 11 inch Pro to the Mini. I love the portability so I’ve adapted to the screen size. It’s kind of awkward though as I don’t think they got the sizing for apps right on it. The Mini shouldn’t have smaller apps, texts, and widgets than an iPhone but it does. My iPhone SE and Pro Max both have bigger text, apps, etc. The size in hand and portability… is super nice though. I’d maybe recommend trying increased contrast and increasing text size in accessibility settings. If that’s not enough maybe try an iPad Air then.
Got my mini 6 and love it! Would be curious to know how the Pro 11” would go in the cockpit (particularly in your cirrus). I’ve seen it in person and there’s definitely a size difference but not sure how noticeable it would be in a more confined space. Also Stef, do you usually leave your EFBs open with the screen on for most of the flight or turn it off when not needing it for immediate nav or weather, etc. Curious on the battery.
I generally have the iPad on for all of taxi/takeoff, and again for the approach/landing. But in the cruise I usually lock it and put if in the space next to my seat as I can direct the air conditioning onto it so it keeps cool. But I have location services set to "always on" for the EFBs so I think it's still draining battery even when not turned on.
I agree that sometimes seeing is a bit tough (sucks getting old!), but Ijust don't have room for a larger ipad in the cockpit. I'll stick with the mini for now.
As a PPL still in old Pipers and Cessna's with limited cabin space the Mini is even in the way sometimes. My CFI's also get on me sometimes about fixating on the screen and not outside and I feel if the iPad was bigger it would distract me as a newer pilot, where I and all pilots should be focused outside the plan. But like you my old eyes would feel better with a bigger screen. Nice vid
I like pencil and paper also. I can barely read my own writing with pencil and paper. The pen was a $100 I wish I had back. (left handed) Ipad 5 has overheating issue in my C172 when sitting in this Louisiana heat on the ramp. In 172 anything bigger than the mini would be too big for me.
I use the iPad 10.9 in a 172, really it’s not to big at all and I also use a split screen with the top half using gps and bottom I switch from the airport weather and the airport approach
Hey Stef, great topic. I'm still using my iPad mini 4 (2 years old) ram mounted in my Cirrus, perfect size & iPad Air for backup & pre-planning. Aging eyes as well.
I’m not a pilot but I just sold my iPad mini 6 for one annoying reason. At default text size, a lot of the time I couldn’t tap on a link due to the touch target being too small. It have to do a quick enlarge then tap, or repeatedly tap in order for the iPad to register the touch. And it wasn’t just a text link; it could also be web page menus and other objects. I tried the mini for 3 months but this just kept on annoying me so I’ve just bought a new Air to replace it.
I use an iPad 5 Mini which works perfectly. I'd love a bigger screen (my eyes also getting old) but it would take up too much space in the cockpit of my 182
I used to use a galaxy mini tablet, but switched to the iPad Pro 11” and it’s fantastic. I was worried it would be too big: I run the tablet along side my paper flight plan and the 11” fits nicely beside an a5 paper. And that’s in a cramped warrior. My OzRunways is about to expire and I’ll probably try avplan now I have iOS.
I was lucky enough to get an iPad mini 6 for my birthday/Xmas. I was looking forward to using it in flight but seeing this video pop up now has me (and the gifter) sweating! Though it could just be the heat..
iPad Mini 4 with ForeFlight on a yoke mount. The battery life now sucks and it’s on borrowed time for support from Apple. So be it. No issues with fonts and stuff so I see a Mini 6 in my future. I found a full-size iPad awkward in the cockpit, but that was my first experience with the technology and it might work differently now. My Musketeer's cockpit is enormous but it's not clear where to put a bigger device.
IPad mini is a bit small for readability.... But the convenience and adaptation to the cockpit makes up for it. I use the 5. My other concern is lack of brightness.
Love that Malmi Air Force sticker on your helmet! Unfortunately, Malmi has now been closed :( Those of us living in Helsinki are now forced to drive much further away to indulge in our expensive hobby. I picked up the new iPad Mini and I've been loving it!
Hi Stef ! I have used a 12,9’ iPad Pro 2nd gen (with home button) and that was too big, but now I use a standard iPad and as it is the same size as my knee board, I find it to be the perfect size. I fly in France (based @ LFRO) and I use ForeFlight. Excellent EFB. Connects to X-Plane 11 as well so I can use it in the sim as well... Been watching your vids for a couple of years now, great stuff !
I use an iPad air 4. It's a great device and the size is perfect. Until you get in the cockpit when it does feel a bit big. I use the ipad for other things as well. But if it was just for flying the mini would be the better size.
I have an iPad mini 5, but I find myself reaching for my iPhone Max more than the iPad. If I'm honest, the iPad gets left in the flight bag as a backup and the phone goes on the knee. If I'm doing an actual IFR flight, I'll use the iPad for approach plates, but that's about it.
Upgraded from iPad Air to iPad Air 2 only because after six years of heavy use original iPad Air screen went bonkers. Considered Mini but realized larger served needs better.
Great video…. I was about to buy a new iPad mini 6….. Thanks for the tips especially with the pen and lack of use etc. so I have now reconsidered it….I’ll save my money ! Annnddd. Like you I’m part of the over the hill pilots club… I have the mini to the left on the screen in a suction so it’s nearly in my face and I can see it…..
Hi Stef, I'm running Oz runways on my 64gb mini6 and its working like a treat. Very pleased I've upgraded. I'm wearing multi focals under the IFR/NVFR/NVG ops and I still find the size of the 6 a good fit for a small cockpit like yours. I have found the standard 9 inch just too awkward with the cockpit and controls and general space etc. Get down to Medispecs and get your readers on !! go well.
I currently use the iPad 11 Pro and at times I find it too big. That being said, I don’t know if I’d want to go smaller. I also tried using the pencil in the cockpit and found it to be a bit distracting and too slick during anything less than perfectly smooth air. Using a leg strap for mine helped and when I fly I turn the passcode and Face ID off.
I use an iPad Pro 10.5", and really like the size. At some times it does feel a bit bulky but it's never gotten in the way. The best way to fly with this sized iPad is to ram mount it on the right seat's yoke so you essentially gain an MFD, or when with an instructor or another pilot on that side then I just let it sit in my lap. And I have always used it for primary nav on VFR flights, and looking down to my lap quickly was never an issue. Obviously not good to do in takeoff/pattern and landing so I set it aside then.
Stef in all seriousness would love to see an Australian Open vlog. I know its not aviation related but people travel all over the world for it. I also believe the roulettes will be there on Australia Day
I started my student pilot journey last year and I originally tried my wife's iPad (the regular variant) and it was too big in the C172 I fly. I ordered the Mini 6 as soon as it was announced and it's been a great fit in my cockpit. I've had no issues running/reading ForeFlight on it, but I'm just about to hit 30, so no eye sight issues to point to yet.
As I have gotten old and the mini 6 or a big flat screen tv are hard to read I use an invention called prescription glasses it’s amazing and they make the screen so clear again
I’ve got the iPad Air and love it for the flight planning or checking the weather/notams when I get to the flight school.
I’ve bought a yoke mount for it but it blocks a few instruments in the Archer 3. I’ve found having a iPad knee board better for it in flight and like you, will always use paper and pencil for noting down things.
Nice vid, cheers.
Hey Stef - I run a Mini 6 solely for flying and I have an iPad Pro 12.9 for my “daily driver” (which I often use as a second monitor for my MacBook through Sidecar).
I find planning with the Pro much better, and it reverts to my backup in the cockpit… but so far I’ve never taken it out because it is massive. In a Cirrus with a side stick it may not be so bad.
I fly with mine and you get used to it and I honestly am scared to go to smaller because I’ve only used the 12”
Just traded it my iPad 7 for the iPad Mini 6 partly due to your original review. I found the font fine myself but maybe differences in our age. For me if I tap the screen in standby mode with the pencil it opens a full screen scratch note mode. You only have to press the corners when the screen is active. One wish is if the pivot case or mygoflight had a iPad mini 6 cases. They won't have them til q2 2022.
Thanks Glenn, I'll keep experimenting with using the Pencil as I'd like to do everything in one place on the iPad. And yes everyone's eyesight will be different so probably an age thing as you say!
While I can't comment on the size, a good tip on the writing with the pen. I used up until recently an iPad Pro 12.9 for writing my works when finishing my engineering degree. I probably wrote 400 pages in total on the iPad pro in replacement of text books. Like some have commented here, the pen is very slick on the display however, I put on a matte textured screen protector on it, and it was a massive improvement on the writability of the iPad. Definitely worth looking into if writing is a primary use for the device. That said, when I first got my PPL, I used an original 10" iPad in the cockpit, and found it a little too bulky, now that I've hit 40, I definitely think the vision might push me back to that size... Haven't used one since I recently got back into flying.
I changed from the iPad Air to the mini6 and I have been loving it since because of the size.
Do u think iPad mini 6 is comfortable in hand like the iPhone ?? Because I think the air is heavy to hold in hand while watching UA-cam videos.
Went from 5 to iPad Air and back to 6. Love the 6. More practical in size. Perfect size for the Cirrus. Time to get reading glasses. That’s the solution. I wear transition lenses designed for the Cirrus cockpit. Spent some time with my optometrist to get the right lenses. Takes getting used to but once you’re used to them everything becomes easy again.
I've been using the iPad Mini 6 with the pencil, and although the pencil isn't really too useful in flight (although I love the quicknote / tap when locked to write), I use the pencil alongside Notability to annotate my instrument plates, and even do weight and balance, then print those pages out. I find that being able to highlight, zoom in and draw perfectly straight lines helps with precision and also with note taking, and less wasted paper after each flight. The pencil does come off the magnetic connector occasionally, so a different case might do well, but flying the DA42 (an aircraft with very limited space for the pilots), the mini 6 is smaller than a standard A5 kneeboard, I can have a kneeboard and the ipad on either leg, with enough space not to get in the way of the stick. Battery life and cellular reception is fantastic too, I've estimated the iPad can last approximately 3.5 - 4 hours on a flight with moderate brightness, and AvPlan running. Cellular, I get good reception even out in the country surprisingly. Although the iPad gets warm to the touch, it's never shut down on me. All in all a worthwhile investment, and fantastic for study/notes too!
Can i know the storage of your ipad mini 6? 64gb or 256gb?
@@KM15 256gb
I'm 49 and a CFI and I use an iPad Mini 6. It's not perfect and I also sometimes wonder if I'd want a larger screen (my eyes are bad enough to wear multifocal contacts, which just barely help for near vision), but sometimes the controls of the plane get in the way even of the Mini. I might feel differently in a Cirrus, but using a yoke and not being able to have a permanent mount somewhere - meaning the iPad sits in my lap - makes having a larger tablet difficult. I will say that I'm totally paperless; I use the Mini 6 exclusively while flying. I have paper in my bag in the back seat just in case but normally it's just me and the Mini 6 and I think that's great. It's a far cry from when I was in training and just had stacks of paper everywhere. (My students are the same, always rifling through giant binders of papers while trying to fly - it's actually a safety issue!)
Stef let me make you feel a bit better about being an 'older pilot'. I'm 66 and I still love my Ipad Mini 5 because it fits in the cockpit better. And I can still see it fine!
Ha, thank you. That does make me feel better. I enjoy watching your videos too Steve, thanks for commenting.
@@StefanDrury You were my inspiration to start sharing my flights (including the not so flattering ones) Mr. Drury. If you ever get to California we should go take a flight somewhere. Cheers-Ren
iPad Mini 6 and iPad Pro. The Mini in a Pivot Case with suction cup mount to left side window. iPad Pro for flight planning (and a million other things). I can open up the Pro on my lap if I need a big screen. I had a Mini 4, but I gave it to my nephew as a reason for me to upgrade to a Mini 6. Also have a kneeboard with a pad of paper. I like writing on paper. Old school, but after 26, 000 hrs of flying I have my habits.
hey stef nice video :) love to see how other people manage their cockpit.
I am using a 12.9“ for daily stuff and work so not in the cockpit since its just to big. But i tried. Have used an 11“ pro there since i bought it when the air 4 wasnt around yet and i didnt wanted the older homebutton-style ipads around. Changed that for a mini 6 now and i am absolutely happy with it. But especially in multitasking it feels tiny! So to all the „old“ people: ipad air might be the perfect middleground.
Actually one tip i use all the time for noting stuff down: in the notes app settings theres an option at the bottom for quick notes. If you tap the screen when locked the ipad starts a fresh note and you can also set it up so it opens the last created quick note again for some amount of time. That way i am as fast as with paper and have all i‘ve noted before right there.
And i have a focus mode set up that starts itself as my ipad connects to the planes wifi. It only displays one page of apps with the flight related stuff on it, blocks notifications and most callers and opens up some shortcuts for siri-guided checklists ❤️
Currently sporting the iPad Pro 11 with a window suction mount for flying; It's incredible for IFR. The only real annoyance for me is switching between airplanes. I usually fly a Diamond and have it mounted on the window but mounting it on a Cessna obscures the yoke from its full range of motion - so it just sits on my lap for now in the 172/82. Other than that, it's a pretty good size and has worked well as my laptop, too.
Would it be ok in a pa28
Pictures of your setup?
I upgraded from an old mini a few years ago to the iPad Air 3 10.5 inch and it was so worth it. It’s amazing the new screen space and it’s a lot better than the small mini - the mini, I agree, is too mini 😅. I would upgrade maybe in a few years stef.
My iPad is on the whole flight, so I don’t need to unlock it. The only notes I need to write usually are ATIS, my clearance, and taxi route. I’ll rarely need to write something down in flight because I’m very fast to enter in headings, altitudes, and squawk codes into the avionics. If you aren’t fast about moving those knobs, you probably should have a quick writing solution. You could also multitask and setup a note-taking app next to your EFB app so they are both up at the same time.
I now have a mini mounted on my yoke, and have the a larger iPad as a backup. I had to get special sunglasses that have clear readers on the bottom.
You can also disable the passcode on the Mini 6 and just swipe up to unlock it. That’s what I do, I hate reaching for that button in the cockpit.
Went from iPad Pro 11 inch to iPad mini 5 because of cockpit ergonomics. Have the diminishing eyesight for reading as well but the mini is still fine as it’s right in front of me on the yoke.
One tip I have for quick notes instead of what you described. With your pen, swipe diagonally from the bottom right corner to bring up the apple notes app. It's way better than having to unlock the screen and go into a scratch pad on your flight bag software.
Hey Stef love your content. I upgraded from the mini to the Pro 11. Everything about the pro is so much better and I love the size and it’s performance running efb’s etc.
Hey, are you a seaplane pilot? Got any videos to upload? I've just put some amazing seaplane flights in Norway on my channel :-)
Interesting, this is what I've been considering as well. Thanks for the support and the comment.
Like a lot of other people I see, I own the iPad mini 6 and the pro 11”. I’ve been only using the mini in the plane but I’m planning on taking the pro a couple of times to see the difference although it wouldn’t be as good obviously since I don’t have the cellular version so I’d take both.
I'm not a pilot but I'm a Motorcoach/bus Operator I generally use my phone as my GPS unit when driving trips. I'm planning on getting an iPad mini this year for trips. To try at least.
Hi Stef, I just ordered a panel mount from Guardian for my home built KR-2S and plan to use split screen mode in ForeFlight on an iPad Air. The power on the back of the mount is hard wired so no need to worry about battery life, looks like a glass cockpit and is out of the way! $150 to $300 for the mount depending on which version iPad and they sell a fan for $50 that attaches behind the mount if you’re concerned about overheating. It’s a “poor man’s glass panel” for sure
I moved from the iPad mine 4 to a 2020 iPad Pro 11´´. I like the bigger size Pro a lot, using it a lot for all kind of things and all kind of cockpits. It´s a very good device in a Cirrus, not so much in our small 2-seat-aircraft. In the 152 or Aquila I usually don´t touch it, in the Cirrus I have it in my lap with no special holder. For take-off and landing I just shove it under my thigh. Using Foreflight only battery life is great, no heat issues. While instructing I still use a very small old-fashioned knee-board. Flying longer cross-countries in the Cirrus I use the iPad for clearances and keeping track of the flight. Back up is an iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Used the Mini until that magic age when not wearing glasses for 50-years of my life went out the door. Now I have used the larger Pro devices for a few years in my Cirrus. Not ideal if you want to use a paper knee-pad as well but for me that has gone as well. The side-sticks in the Cirrus are so conducive to using a larger device, that my mini has been regulated to the back-up and I would not swap the Pro for anything smaller.
Just an FYI... The iPad with the pencil when the screen is locked and you use the pencil to tap the screen you then bring up Notes. or with iOS 15 with the pencil you swipe from the bottom right you then have access to Quick Notes, which automatically saves in notes.
I use the new mini. I have also used the large pro although it is heavy and does have a tendency to overheat. I’m in a Cub so available space is a premium and the mini works best.
I use both the Mini 6 and an iPad 11 inch Pro with Foreflight. I use the Mini in smaller cockpits (Cubs, a Husky) and the larger Pro in C182 and C172 aircraft. I like the Mini the best, even if it is harder to see the the Pro 11 inch. I also use an iPhone for a backup. I use both iPads with a lap board. The Pro is really awkward in the smaller cockpit which have sticks rather than yokes. Size matters in a small cockpit...
Ive had my mini 6 for about 1 month and so far i love it and has almost replaced my phone.
I use the iPad Pro 12.7 inch. Absolutely love it. It works well in the plane because I can see a lot of the chart without having to scroll, or zoom. I also love using it for notes, BUT i completely agree with you paper and pen is superior to copy instructions from ATC. I fly with a knee board on my right leg (I’m right handed) and I just put set the iPad on my left leg without a kneeboard. I’ve tried to yoke mount my iPad and it just doesn’t work since it blocks too much of the panel from line of sight. The other benefit of the pro is it’s really bright in direct sunlight, doesn’t overheat, and the processor is fast. I’ll likely be upgrading to another pro 12.7 inch in the future. (Won’t lie though it would be nice to have a mini as well as a back up)
I have 12.9” iPad pro, and a lot of text in apps is not bigger, after changing text size. Like websites and looking at you youtube. Remember to compare in a store. It is a major point youtube reviewers comparing devices is missing.
i changed to larger size just because of older eye and its heaps better
Try out the screen zoom in accessibility when you have some free time … see if that may work for you.
So, you like Garmin Pilot over ForeFlight??? Went from a full-size Pro to the Mini, and it's because the size works better in the cockpit...
I started having trouble reading the small devices in flight... I decided to try multi-focal contact lenses, which are legal to fly with here in the States. I have the lowest magnification, and they work GREAT! I can see so clear now - and it does not affect my far vision in any noticeable way. (It does take 30 days of wearing them before your eyes fully adjust - and you cannot fly with them in for that 30 day period - again, at least here in the States.)
This video its showing and recommended like forever
Pls tell me its worth to watch
Using Ipad 5 mini flying a Sportstar screw mount to the dash works a treat. Have a couple vents right behind the Ipad which I leave open. Never overheated and shut down but has gotten hot a few times. I always use paper maps as backup. I did have it with a suction cap but always let go at the worse moment eg coming into a circuit or on final. Have a Garmin 296 which I also always run as a secondary backup.
Keep it up keep up your good work mate love your vids
Thank you
I've used an iPad Air 3 and have moved to a Lenovo Tab M8 FHD. Why? The iPad crashed on flights over 1.5 hours and overheated a lot. Size was okayish (10.5"), but in my opinion just a bit too big for a SEP cockpit. I am very, very satisfied with the M8 FHD, perfect size (8"), remains cool all the time, battery life is unbelievable AND it runs extremely stable! 4 hour flight? No problem! It is a bit slow though, for planning not super ideal, but it works. No factor while flying.
The one thing I can’t stand about the pro and Apple Pencil 1rst gen is the way it has to be charged; plugging into bottom of iPad lightning port. The new iPad and mini have the 2nd gen pencil which connects by magnet to the side to charge, much more convenient imo
Hey Stefan, I just wanted to thank you for your enormously helpful assessment of the iPad Mini 6. After a 6-week post-order delay, mine will be here very soon and I will be using it in the Grumman Tiger in which I just bought a quarter share. Given my Southern California location and the amount of glass in the aircraft, I will have to pay attention to possible overheating and that in turn will influence my decision re. how to mount it in the cockpit. The airplane does not have ADSB-IN so I will need to get a Stratus or something; your advice on that subject would be valuable. Meanwhile thanks again for your excellent videos.
I’d say your use and qualms for this device are very niche but understandable. Would almost need some sort of mount for the pad and to turn off the screen lock while in the plane for easier access, but sometimes pencil/pen and paper is just superior. Some things never change I suppose :)
Also just a very off topic hot tip. Elwood 7 eleven has a bloody terrific smoothy/frappe machine (only one in the state) best frozen classic lemonades!!
I use an iPad 6 mini and works like a charm no issues
I use a full size iPad Pro 11” in my Mooney and honestly, it’s a little cramped. Maybe a bigger plane would be easier but honestly, I love the iPad and use it for more than just aviation. I probably won’t switch. I’ll keep what I have.
Stef, my wife and I have been enjoying your videos.
I use an iPad Pro 11” for reference when I want to look at something during a flight, and a knee board with pen for all writing.
I’m considering a Mini, so that I can have it mounted and always on and visible.
I’d still use pen and paper though.
I use older iPad 6th gen yoke mounted in C172. There is lots of space still for the larger newer iPads. Aging eyes require glasses for reading the fine print but not needed for approach plates quick glance. Bigger screen size is better as you have more information on the screen at once. Such as secondary AHRS and map on the screen at once. I also like paper and pen on kneeboard for jotting down ATC instructions!
I love the iPad min (6) in the cockpit (SEP), exactly because of its size!
Hi , I use an IPad Air4 with the new Apple pencil. I fly mainly IFR in a Garmin Perspective based SR22.
I've gone totally paperless in the cockpit now ,and love it. I find the note taking more than acceptable.
In Avplan I can quickly go to the notepad and write down a clearance or frequency etc. Occasionally I'm not quick enough however, I just ask ATC to repeat no problems.
On-screen size, at my age I feel the Ipad Air 4's screen would be the minimum size I could live with, hence why I didn't buy a mini.
Mate of mine used to use a 'full size' iPad on his knee. It always seemed too big and cumbersome to me. I used an iPad Mini and it was far better. We now have a tablet affixed in the cockpit so don't bother with them on our knees.
Stef, get the Ipad Pro with a Paperlike screen protector. No relflections or finger prints and so good to write on with the Apple Pencil.
Good luck with your training for the ride, look fwd to seeing what it is. One thing when riding - go bright be seen - stay safe
I too fly a Cirrus so lap space is not such an issue. I have tried everything from a mini upwards and now much prefer a 12.9 Pro. Visibility trumps space efficiency. In other aeroplanes where I would use a mount, the 12.9 would be too large. I have the pencil but struggle to get used to it. As per your comment, scribbling on paper is faster and easier.
Thx for the Video, Im still using the 5 and was wandering whether I should upgrade. Question Answered. Keep up the great content!
You don’t actually need to swipe from the bottom before start writing. Start writing with the pencil with the screen still locked, it will pick it up
I use a mini 5 with a Pivot case. By any measure, at nearly 69, I have "old" eyes - not a problem. I run Foreflight and have no issues, wouldn't change a thing.
I’d suggest iPad Pro 11” for one key reason - Face ID unlock. No fiddly fingerprint button issues
I use Garmin Pilot on a Samsung Galaxy Tab S6, which is maybe a bit smaller than an iPad air. I recently picked up an iPad mini for another use, but put Garmin Pilot on it, and was surprised how small the text was. I can read it, but it does make me reach for the glasses more often. In my Skylane, I think it will be a backup to the larger tablet. On the larger tablet, I like to use the split view in GP and keep the traffic page up.
I’ve traded my IPad Pro (10”) for a iPads mini 5 which I have on a yoke mount. So the mini is a perfect size.
Good to know, thanks Steve
use something like "Paperlike" and you get the pencil feeling... and get "Notabilty" to swipe over for fast note taking...
I can’t answer your question but you can probably set your iPad mini to unlock without your fingerprint. Also keep in mind Apple has a pretty good no questions asked returns policy if you wanted to get a iPad Air and test it
Sadly still part of the paper gang, not far enough into training to justify getting an EFB… especially if I’m locked away to within 25nm of the airport. Once I start my nav I’ll have to look into it. Great video, hope you’re doing well Stef.
Not sure if you’re aware but you don’t have to open the iPad Mini to write notes. You can start writing on the main screen when locked to make a note and it’ll open up a notes page to write on.
For me though I transitioned from an 11 inch Pro to the Mini. I love the portability so I’ve adapted to the screen size. It’s kind of awkward though as I don’t think they got the sizing for apps right on it. The Mini shouldn’t have smaller apps, texts, and widgets than an iPhone but it does. My iPhone SE and Pro Max both have bigger text, apps, etc. The size in hand and portability… is super nice though. I’d maybe recommend trying increased contrast and increasing text size in accessibility settings. If that’s not enough maybe try an iPad Air then.
Got my mini 6 and love it! Would be curious to know how the Pro 11” would go in the cockpit (particularly in your cirrus). I’ve seen it in person and there’s definitely a size difference but not sure how noticeable it would be in a more confined space. Also Stef, do you usually leave your EFBs open with the screen on for most of the flight or turn it off when not needing it for immediate nav or weather, etc. Curious on the battery.
I generally have the iPad on for all of taxi/takeoff, and again for the approach/landing. But in the cruise I usually lock it and put if in the space next to my seat as I can direct the air conditioning onto it so it keeps cool. But I have location services set to "always on" for the EFBs so I think it's still draining battery even when not turned on.
I have my mini on the yoke and with a suction cup mount have the 11 iPad pro on the window. Now the pro I am using is the 2018 one.
I agree that sometimes seeing is a bit tough (sucks getting old!), but Ijust don't have room for a larger ipad in the cockpit. I'll stick with the mini for now.
Stef please tell which app you use to write your clearance and metar. Like you used in 0:56
As a PPL still in old Pipers and Cessna's with limited cabin space the Mini is even in the way sometimes. My CFI's also get on me sometimes about fixating on the screen and not outside and I feel if the iPad was bigger it would distract me as a newer pilot, where I and all pilots should be focused outside the plan. But like you my old eyes would feel better with a bigger screen. Nice vid
I use the iPad Pro 12.9, it’s a beast! I usually set it on my flight bag next to me on the seat.
I like pencil and paper also. I can barely read my own writing with pencil and paper. The pen was a $100 I wish I had back. (left handed) Ipad 5 has overheating issue in my C172 when sitting in this Louisiana heat on the ramp. In 172 anything bigger than the mini would be too big for me.
100% agree, writing on a paper notepad is quicker and easier in most situations (not a pilot, I work in IT)
I use the iPad 10.9 in a 172, really it’s not to big at all and I also use a split screen with the top half using gps and bottom I switch from the airport weather and the airport approach
I use my iPhone 13 with SkyDemon for logging the flight. I usually have Garmin G3X or G1000 in the cockpit for all the navigation.
Works great for me.
In GA and the airline I use the iPad Air 👍
I love iPad Pro 11inch. It’s perfect size for me
I Use both for the size issue....
I use the iPad Pro 10 inch and it’s much easier to read the mini. I do have a mini as a backup, but I don’t find it big enough for an approach plate
Hey Stef, great topic. I'm still using my iPad mini 4 (2 years old) ram mounted in my Cirrus, perfect size & iPad Air for backup & pre-planning. Aging eyes as well.
Hopefully trying it out tomorrow for the first time. Stay tuned.
My company use iPad Air.
Can’t beat jepps/DAPs in their native A5 size!
I’m 60 and use my iPhone 12 Max in the cockpit.
I’m not a pilot but I just sold my iPad mini 6 for one annoying reason.
At default text size, a lot of the time I couldn’t tap on a link due to the touch target being too small.
It have to do a quick enlarge then tap, or repeatedly tap in order for the iPad to register the touch. And it wasn’t just a text link; it could also be web page menus and other objects.
I tried the mini for 3 months but this just kept on annoying me so I’ve just bought a new Air to replace it.
I use an iPad 5 Mini which works perfectly. I'd love a bigger screen (my eyes also getting old) but it would take up too much space in the cockpit of my 182
I use my iPad Mini for my flights and it works great for me.
I used to use a galaxy mini tablet, but switched to the iPad Pro 11” and it’s fantastic. I was worried it would be too big: I run the tablet along side my paper flight plan and the 11” fits nicely beside an a5 paper. And that’s in a cramped warrior. My OzRunways is about to expire and I’ll probably try avplan now I have iOS.
I was lucky enough to get an iPad mini 6 for my birthday/Xmas. I was looking forward to using it in flight but seeing this video pop up now has me (and the gifter) sweating! Though it could just be the heat..
iPad Mini is still my choice with my full screen iPad Pro as my second device. My mini fits on my knee board.
iPad Mini 4 with ForeFlight on a yoke mount. The battery life now sucks and it’s on borrowed time for support from Apple. So be it.
No issues with fonts and stuff so I see a Mini 6 in my future. I found a full-size iPad awkward in the cockpit, but that was my first experience with the technology and it might work differently now. My Musketeer's cockpit is enormous but it's not clear where to put a bigger device.
IPad mini is a bit small for readability.... But the convenience and adaptation to the cockpit makes up for it. I use the 5. My other concern is lack of brightness.
I'm happy using an iPad Mini. It's very old though, I think it was the first or second gen. Time to get a new one...
Love that Malmi Air Force sticker on your helmet! Unfortunately, Malmi has now been closed :( Those of us living in Helsinki are now forced to drive much further away to indulge in our expensive hobby.
I picked up the new iPad Mini and I've been loving it!
Hi Stef !
I have used a 12,9’ iPad Pro 2nd gen (with home button) and that was too big, but now I use a standard iPad and as it is the same size as my knee board, I find it to be the perfect size.
I fly in France (based @ LFRO) and I use ForeFlight. Excellent EFB. Connects to X-Plane 11 as well so I can use it in the sim as well...
Been watching your vids for a couple of years now, great stuff !
I use an iPad air 4. It's a great device and the size is perfect. Until you get in the cockpit when it does feel a bit big. I use the ipad for other things as well. But if it was just for flying the mini would be the better size.
I have an iPad mini 5, but I find myself reaching for my iPhone Max more than the iPad. If I'm honest, the iPad gets left in the flight bag as a backup and the phone goes on the knee. If I'm doing an actual IFR flight, I'll use the iPad for approach plates, but that's about it.
Upgraded from iPad Air to iPad Air 2 only because after six years of heavy use original iPad Air screen went bonkers. Considered Mini but realized larger served needs better.
Great video…. I was about to buy a new iPad mini 6….. Thanks for the tips especially with the pen and lack of use etc. so I have now reconsidered it….I’ll save my money ! Annnddd. Like you I’m part of the over the hill pilots club… I have the mini to the left on the screen in a suction so it’s nearly in my face and I can see it…..
Hi Stef, I'm running Oz runways on my 64gb mini6 and its working like a treat. Very pleased I've upgraded. I'm wearing multi focals under the IFR/NVFR/NVG ops and I still find the size of the 6 a good fit for a small cockpit like yours. I have found the standard 9 inch just too awkward with the cockpit and controls and general space etc. Get down to Medispecs and get your readers on !! go well.
Haha, it's not long before you see a bespectacled stef on the channel I reckon... Thanks Brett.
I currently use the iPad 11 Pro and at times I find it too big. That being said, I don’t know if I’d want to go smaller. I also tried using the pencil in the cockpit and found it to be a bit distracting and too slick during anything less than perfectly smooth air. Using a leg strap for mine helped and when I fly I turn the passcode and Face ID off.
I am also contemplating on purchasing the bigger Ipad Air! Purely for the ease of reading. Thoughts?