HOW TO PREPARE YOUR IPAD FOR FLIGHT: THE ULTIMATE EFB PREFLIGHT CHECKLIST
Your iPad may be one of the most useful tools in your cockpit—but is it ready for takeoff?
Whether you're a student pilot, private pilot, or IFR-rated aviator, a properly prepared Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) helps reduce distractions and improves situational awareness.
Before your next flight, follow this practical ForeFlight preflight checklist.
1. Download Your Charts Before Leaving Wi-Fi
Don't assume your iPad will have internet access in flight.
Open ForeFlight and confirm that your required data is downloaded, including:
VFR sectional charts and IFR enroute charts
Airport diagrams and approach plates
Navigation databases and relevant chart updates
Check coverage for your entire route, including alternate airports when applicable.
Pilot tip: Enable Airplane Mode during your ground check to confirm essential charts remain accessible offline.
2. Verify GPS Position
Your moving map is only useful when it receives reliable position information.
Before departure:
Confirm ForeFlight displays your correct aircraft position.
Verify your external GPS or ADS-B receiver is connected.
Check that position information updates correctly.
A Wi-Fi-only iPad generally needs an external GPS source, while cellular-capable iPads include built-in GPS hardware.
3. Check Your ADS-B Receiver
A portable ADS-B receiver can provide valuable traffic and weather information without an internet connection.
Before takeoff, confirm:
Your receiver is powered on and connected.
ForeFlight recognizes the device.
The receiver has a suitable view of the sky.
ADS-B weather and traffic reception status is understood.
Important: ADS-B traffic displays may be incomplete, and broadcast weather can be delayed. Continue visual scanning and never use datalink weather for close-range thunderstorm avoidance.
4. Secure Your iPad and Backup Power
Turbulence, glare, and battery depletion can turn a useful tablet into a distraction.
Check that your:
iPad kneeboard, yoke mount, or suction mount is secure.
Screen remains readable without blocking flight instruments.
Battery is adequately charged.
Backup power bank and charging cable are accessible.
Avoid exposing your iPad to prolonged direct sunlight, which can cause overheating.
5. Prepare for an EFB Failure
Even reliable electronics can fail.
Know how to access essential navigation information if your iPad shuts down, loses GPS, or disconnects from your ADS-B receiver.
Carry an appropriate backup and remain proficient with your aircraft's installed avionics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ForeFlight work without Wi-Fi?
Yes. Downloaded charts and navigation data work offline. GPS positioning requires a suitable GPS source, while ADS-B weather and traffic require compatible receiving equipment and available broadcasts.
Do I need an ADS-B receiver for ForeFlight?
No. ForeFlight can operate without one, but a compatible receiver adds useful traffic, weather, and positioning capabilities depending on the model.
Build a More Reliable EFB Setup
A dependable cockpit setup starts with compatible equipment.
Sharks Technologies offers AeroView™ Basic, Plus, and Pro, complete iPad-based EFB bundles combining aviation tablets, ADS-B receivers, mounting systems, protective accessories, and backup power.
Instead of selecting every component separately, pilots can choose a pre-matched system designed for general aviation flying.
ForeFlight subscription sold separately. Portable EFB equipment supplements—not replaces—required aircraft instruments, approved procedures, or pilot judgment.
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