It is absolutely essential to mention that only the cell version has the built in GPS! Many ppl have said that an external GPS is recommended for Foreflight but having the internal GPS handy is definitely a plus even if you don’t use cell service at all.
When you are in the locked screen, you can just tap on the screen with the pencil to open the notes app. Swipe from the bottom right is actually meant for using notes while you are on another app.
One additional thing to consider: only cellular version offers GPS currently, so one need to add external GPS via Bluetooth. Which then is as expensive as buying cellular directly. Only advantage is that modern external devices also support Glonass & Galileo which leads to even more precise positions (Might not be necessary even in the pattern though… 😃)
Indeed, I actually wouldn't even consider or recommend a wifi only model for it's lack of gps. Even if you do happen to have an external unit, it's alwasy nice to have the redundancy and ease of use of a built in gps
The nice thing about an external GPS, if you get a Stratux or Stratus or similar, is the ADS-B in. That’s how you’ll see where the other planes are that you can’t literally see, get the weather inflight, etc. Of course, having an internal GPS is a nice backup, but the external with ADS-B In is critical (IMHO).
@Jannik Weichert please how do you add external GPS via Bluetooth because I find it difficult using Air navigation pro app on my mini 5 wifi model and I happen to have a 12 pro max do I just connect my Bluetooth just asking please
I've been looking for an iPad mini review from a pilot's perspective, and this was it! I've never used an iPad as an EFB before, what apps (preferably free) would you suggest?
I've been using the iPad mini 5 since I got out of flight school (not allowed to use EFBs) and I think it just makes flying simpler and safer in many respects. Already ordered the mini 6 (will keep 2 ipads one for backup) and now I'm just waiting for us to be allowed flying again!
Yeah as a Private Pilot I can't imagine flying without the iPad now to be honest. Having access to every map and chart I could possibly need on one device rather than carrying stacks of paper is not only convenient it's a safety benefit in my opinion.
@@StjepanNikolic Just briefly looking at the index of the Part 91 Plain English Guide there isn't much on the topic, could you give a reference? Trying to not read too much of the new stuff just yet before sitting ATPL Air Law and getting new and old regs mixed up😂
@@yesitasnow it doesn't need the sim for GPS but I believe it can acquire a signal more quickly if it has network access. I have a backup iPad mini 5 with no SIM (but SIM model) and no issues with GPS
Only reason for larger storage is outside the actual flying, to be able to have music or videos on the move (even offline), some books to read. I would however recommend to have separate devices! One iPad for cockpit use that has NOTHING else, another for media consumption, playing, reading etc. Keep it clean and simple.
Dude I really hope you’re ok and doing well. Hope lockdown ends soon and I hope to see you back in the air! Great video and best wishes from me over in the UK. John I use the IPad 5 and love it for my flying. I use it connected to the cockpit dashboard.
The large variety of productivity/entertainment uses for the Mini demonstrates how versatile it can be for so many people. Master of Nun - But Good at a lot of stuff - Fine by me!!! I bought an iPad Mini 2 Cellular 10 years ago. I do not browse with it - I'm an adult - so I use my 14" laptop to browse and an Apple TV for viewing. After 10 years of ownership - I use my Mini almost exclusively when I "TRAVEL" - to do the following (otherwise it sits in a drawer) #1- as a GPS unit in my vehicles - the best GPS ever (70%) That's after over 150K miles of road trips (FYI - lots of pilots use the Mini for realtime in-flight information)- when I need a GPS around town - my iPhone works fine. #2 - as a Sidecar or mirror screen to view video paired with a M2 MBA (25%) #3 - as an eReader (4%) #4 - the odd miscellaneous task (1%) This might change with the pencil. I will likely buy the new Mini 7 when it comes out @ year end. The Mini is simply a great portable high performance device that sits between an iPhone & MBA M2 as a complimentary but not essential device.
I made the mistake of getting 64GB on my mini5. Regretted it from day one. I couldn’t update my ForeFlight charts before the expiration date because it didn’t have enough space. Went 256 on my mini6. The Mini6 battery life is not quite as good as 5. My theory is the constant charging of the pencil2 is a factor, which I’ve experienced on my Pro with the pencil2. Definitely get cellular version.
Thank you so much for this! I’m a private pilot, studying IFR ground. I don’t have an ipad but have always been curious about flying with one. My friend recommended the mini wifi only because he recommends an external gps, apple pencil and a yoke mount. I was worried it would be too small and the charts would be hard to read but it looked pretty clear to me when you showed them in the video. I think I’ll buy this one. Thank you!
@@vincentleow6315 Yeah, I believe it basically degrades to an electronic paper map. You’ll need an external GPS source for position info on a WiFi iPad. Something like a Stratus or Sentry ADS-B receiver can do it. You’ll probably want one of those anyway for ADS-B traffic and weather info. That said, redundancy is nice. If the external GPS fails/dies, at least the cellular iPad still has its internal GPS for position info; the WiFi iPad is left completely blind. Cellular service is not required to use the GPS functionality of the cellular-capable iPad.
Agreed, although you can't rely on your iPad based EFB for GPS-based navigation anyway. (the hardware needs to be certified). But it is good for situational awareness (and a tethered iPhone can supply GPS position to the wifi only version, but that is one more point of failure).
As others have said, you need the cellular version to get the in-built GPS. Also, you must have a back-up, either another device or paper back-up. Cheers.
For private flying (in Australia), the iPad alone is sufficient. The requirement is to carry maps & charts applicable to the route being flown (plus alternates) and readily accessible. This means your iPad must be charged, within reach and everything downloaded into Settings → Downloads before flight. If you are flying under a company AOC, then additional legislation applies which includes backups etc.
@@FranksMSFlightSimulator that not correct, my comment was for Australia, we don’t need a backup, people misread / misunderstand that requirement for AOC requirements.
Yeah I ordered on the day of release. I wanted to share what it's like with everyone early as I know there will be a lot of interest in the travel community.
Ouch! I just bought an iPad 5 mini (cell) this summer. Like it a lot and I did need it for my schooling in an open gyrocopter. Thanks for your videos - keep them coming.
Agreed. For pilots the Cellular is a must for the GPS. In my opinion an EFB without GPS doesn't make sense and I don't want to deal with an external GPS Receiver in the plane.
There's no need to have built-in GPS if you have an external ADS-B receiver like a Stratus or Stratux. In fact, I would never rely solely on the iPad's GPS over an external ADS-B receiver because you're not going to get traffic with it, which is really the most important thing.
bought a normal ipad 6 months ago, then found out they dont have gps, so bought the mini 5+cellular as well and gave the other one to the wife, everybody happy :) will stick with the old mini for now, although the notes with pencil look great, lets first get my pilots license before splurging on that.
Hey Stef, I’ve recently updated to a mini 5 with Cellular, importantly GPS is built in on cellular versions. I alternate between GP and OZRUNWAYS, and have a GDL90 FOR GP and Ping for OZ for ADSB In. It also adds messaging with my Garmin Inreach and I will add a flightstream 510 to my GTN650 for updates It’s on a RAM mount on my yoke I previously had a IPad Pro. And am really happy with the new setup.
3 года назад
Does the external Ping + OzRunways give all ADSB traffic, or just the OzRunways users? Cheers
I came here to know if I should go with 64gb or 256gb. I would’ve preferred 128, but I plan to strictly use this for flying. Looks like I’m going to save some money and go with the mini 64gb! Thanks!
IPAD MINI and AVPLANefb. I've been meaning to try the pencil after seeing this I will. It should be handy for writing a clearance or any notes for engineers etc. Great review, thank you.
Thank you so much for this :D. I didn't know about the GPS being available only with the cellular, glad I watched your video. BTW, do you have a recommended mount for iPad mini 6?
Great overview Stef! Mine came yesterday after upgrading from a mini 1 (yes 1..) and already loving it, can’t wait to see how it goes in the cockpit (and your videos when we’re able to fly again). I agree about the software, hopefully Apple can iron the bugs out soon and maybe stretch out the UI to better fit the mini. Quick tip for quick notes, if the screen is off then you can just tap and hold the pencil anywhere on the screen to start writing, not just from the corner (but the corner will work in apps too) in case it is a bit turbulent. Hopefully you can get back up in EYZ soon :)
Looking forward to trying out the Mini 6 to replace my Mini 4. I regretted not opting for the the cellular + GPS on my current Mini 4, so I'm ordering the 6 with it. When my Stratus ADS-B + GPS receiver shuts down due to heat or interference, it's back to good old fashioned pilotage and my iPhone Xs as backup. My Mini 1 and Mini 4 were dedicated to flying, but now I find iPadOS improved enough that I'm using it for more than aviation. Great to load up some movies on it when stuck at a hotel due to weather. Thanks for the review! Also check out the X-Naut iPad mounts with integrated cooling fans. They are RAM-mount compatible. I found the additional cooling to be crucial in a low-wing when flying in the desert southwest (Arizona, US).
Well I really gotta admit, am an android user but when it comes to flying....then an IPAD mini 6 is a great option for planning and doing almost everything in flight which is a huge + for me.....I might get that in the future i guess 🤔
Thanks for this awesome review! I was wondering, with everything flying related installed, how much storage do you have left on the 64GB version? I'm thinking of using this ipad for flying as well as work/studying, and am trying to figure out if the extra storage would be worth it or not.
Thanks for the video. Yeah, I pull out FlightAware when a plane flies by, then go to the registration to see what kind it is and if I know the pilot. I am using a Mini 5 WiFi only for FlyQ (I’m in the U.S.) and have a Mini 4 with cellular as a backup. I use a DIY Stratux for GPS and, more importantly, ADS-B In information. I figure I can use my phone or the backup Mini 4 or my eyes if the Stratux goes out and I need to navigate.
I'm about to make the leap from paper charts, steam gauges, and a paper note pad - to a full Dynon glass cockpit and electronic flight bag... I resisted for a long time because I was comfortable with the 'old way', the way I learned to fly way back when. But the time has come to make that change, and I've been trying to figure out which iPad was going to be the one. No clue why it took me so long, since I embrace new tech in every other aspect of my life? Maybe I just wanted to keep something in my life old school?
I got back into aviation this summer after a multi-year layoff. Knowing that a new mini was coming I've just been using my iPhone 8 and Foreflight. It's not as bad as you might think. But my mini 6 is on order and I should have it in a couple of weeks. Went for the bigger memory and with gps/cellular but not with the pencil. I figured I'd wait and see if I really need the pencil first.
Since I’m still early in my training I haven’t had to use an EFB but since I own the latest iPad Air, I’ll definitely be using ForeFlight on that. I don’t know how I’ll manage with Roth’s large size in the cockpit but I guess we’ll have to wait and see. And I have an Apple Pencil and it’s fantastic. I’ve used it for school and it works like a charm. I don’t know if the iPad mini is different but on my iPad you only have to tap the screen with the pencil for quick note
Is 64GB really good enough if you just have aviation apps downloaded? Foreflight recommends the highest storage but 256GB sounds a lot and it's way more expensive. I just want to make sure that 64GB is good enough for Foreflight in U.S.
Hi Stefan, I am currently using an IPAD Pro 11inch version with Oz runways as my EFB. I find that setup is working really well. I was interested to see your comments about the Apple Pencil, I like the idea of the convenience & note taking. I shall look into that now. Thanks for another great video. Cheers Tony
Hi Steph. Message me if you would like try out a iLevil 3AW unit. This unit will give you ADSB-In traffic, full WAAS GPS, and ADHRS to you iPad right out of the box. You need to splice it into your pitot system for alt/asi/vsi, but it will do that too.
Currently running a mini 2 WiFi version with Garmin Pilot. Fortunately most of the aircraft I fly have GTX345s I can link to, so not having GPS wasn't a huge deal. That said, decided to upgrade to the cellular version with the mini 6 (waiting for it to come in still) so I have a little better situational awareness if I can't link to a GTX (the DA40s can be hit or miss). As for the pencil, I'm taking a chance with a $30 knock off pencil -$129 seems a bit excessive for what I need (I don't need the pressure sensitivity, for example). That said, it will be nice to not need a separate scratch pad for clearances and what not.
Using ipad 2 wifi with Skydemon and XGPS 160 - still works fine, but I was waiting to see this ipad 6 to come out, to see if its worth upgrading. I will probably wait for Skydemon to stop supporting my ipad before an update… I’m currently building a Stratux, lets see if it will slow the ipad even further… or if it will remain usable :)
I’m from the states and I’m on my PPL cert at the moment and recently got a knee strap for my 10.2 inch iPad. It was so bulky that i bought a different case and decided to not use the strap anymore as it interfered with the controls. I’ve definitely been looking at the mini ever since that happened
I am using the M1 iPad Pro 12.9 & it is perfect! Great size & wouldn’t consider going any smaller. Hopefully Apple launches that new iPad Pro 16” model soon.
Just wanted to point out, if the iPads screen is off, all you have to do is start writing. You don’t need to swipe from the edge. The edge swipe with the pen is for the quick note when you’re already using the iPad and want to take a quick note. 👍🏽
Thank you so much for continuing to do what you can during your lockdown. You keep it fun. I use the generation five mini that I bought about three months back. I couldn’t wait for the six because I started flying and needed the EFB. I have an iPad Pro, but it was just too big for the cockpit. I’m going to keep the Generation five for now to let software catch up, like you recommended, as well as let the case manufacturers make the case for it. I spent a good investment in the generation five case, so I got to get my money’s worth before I sell/trade it. I use the Pivot system cases and will wait for the new iPad mini case.
I went for an M1 11 inch iPad Pro since I use it also for studying and working, so I would benefit from the extra inches. It fits nice on my leg in a DA40.
I've been using a Mini 5 with a Pencil 1 and it's been pretty great compared to paper, but yeah, the limitations of the Pencil 1 are really annoying. My big thing is that often my Pencil just isn't charged at all unless I remember to specifically charge it, something the Pencil 2 solves definitively. I ordered the 256GB Mini 6 (my Mini 5 is also 256GB) because it is my personal tablet and I use it for other things, along with a Pencil 2. I don't need the cellular version because I have a Stratux; there's not much a cellular iPad can do for me in the cockpit that the Stratux can't, especially because I don't need another service to subscribe to (meaning all I'd get from the cellular iPad is GPS... which the Stratux gives me, along with traffic and weather).
Pretty sweet new iPad! Hopefully we'll be able to see you back in EYZ sometime soon. Hope you're okay! Love your content as well man. I just finished a Cirrus SR22 Australian outback trip in MSFS 2020 lol, of course registered as VH-EYZ! EDIT: Stefan said "ass"? !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😂😂😂😂
I use the iPad mini 6 when I fly and love it. I got the cellular after dealing with a 3rd party gps on a previous iPad. One less thing to make sure is charged and ready to go in the flight bag makes life easy.
Stef I use the new iPad Pro 11 inch which I mount on my Bonanza’s yoke - it works perfectly. I find the mini too small so I’ll keep my old mini as a second iPad but hardly use it now. The advantage of the 11 inch is that in portrait mode (which is how I have it mounted) it displays the approach plate in a good size and you don’t need to zoom in
Hi to everyone, I am a private pilot building up time for the commercial license. I don't have any electronic device to fly and I'm looking forward to buy this Ipad? the size is good? or is it too small?
Interested to know if anyone is using / has tried xavion.com? Obviously more functional in the US than elsewhere but still a useful addition to the flight bag?
I am using the 11” iPad with Avplan but i sometimes find it a little too big and thinking of should i get the mini, but i am afraid it will be a waste of money. What would you think?
Not really, if you don't worry about the screen size and stop looking at mini as a laptop replacement in some ways. It's a true tablet meant to be dealt with hands. Reading, browsing, watching and fun drooling are it's best traits. Professional work outputs not really due to limited screen estate.
iPad mini 4 cellular for gps has worked great for my experience. Definitely feeling a little sluggish and could use a little more speed but my skills over the years have out passed the iPad. I recommend the iPad 4 for new students. Lower cost the entry and the speed won’t effect them yet.
