iFlightPlanner

 

...

Blog

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Navigating Identical VOR and Airport Identifiers in iFlightPlanner

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 @ 8:00 AM

Planning flights can be a meticulous task, especially when dealing with specific navigation aids like VORs that share identifiers with airports. iFlightPlanner offers a robust solution for this scenario, making flight planning both flexible and accurate.

When the IATA Identifiers Match

When planning a flight, iFlightPlanner supports routing from and to VORs. However, a common issue arises when a VOR and an airport share the same three-character IATA identifier. In such cases, the system defaults to assuming the identifier refers to the airport, not the VOR. For example, the identifier "OSH" could refer to both an airport and a VOR. By default, iFlightPlanner will interpret "OSH" as the airport and change it to "KOSH," which can be frustrating if you intend to depart from or navigate to the VOR.

How to Distinguish VORs

The solution is straightforward: add "/V" to the VOR identifier. So, if you wish to start your flight from the "OSH" VOR, you should enter it as "OSH/V" in the Planner console. This simple addition ensures that the system correctly interprets your input as a VOR rather than an airport, as shown here:

This feature is particularly beneficial for pilots who often depart VFR and pick up an IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) clearance en route. It provides more flexibility and reduces the load on the IFR system. iFlightPlanner’s intuitive interface and this specific feature make it an excellent tool for precise and efficient flight planning.

Thursday, July 18, 2024

Understanding IFR Flight Plans: Why Changes Can't Be Made Within 46 Minutes

Thursday, July 18, 2024 @ 8:00 AM

When operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), pilots must file a flight plan that cannot be amended or canceled within 46 minutes of departure. This rule ensures safety and efficiency within Air Traffic Control (ATC).

Why the 46-Minute Rule?

Once a flight plan is filed, ATC coordinates with various sectors and allocates resources. Sudden changes can disrupt these operations, affecting safety and efficiency.

What Constitutes a Change?

In addition to altitude or flight level, destination, and route changes, altering the speed of an aircraft constitutes a change. If the average true airspeed at cruising altitude varies by plus or minus 5 percent or 10 knots, ATC must be advised.

How to Manage Changes?

  1. Plan Ahead: Ensure your flight plan is accurate and finalized before the 46-minute cutoff.
  2. Communicate Early: If changes are needed, notify ATC promptly. Changes should be made more than 46 minutes before departure using the Amend Flight Plan feature offered by iFlightPlanner. If unavailable, contact an ATC facility or FSS.
  3. Update Departure Times: Notify ATC if your departure is delayed by more than 2 hours to keep the flight plan active. Due to traffic saturation, ATC may not accept revisions via radio, so contact a flight plan service provider or FSS.

By understanding and adhering to this rule, pilots can contribute to a safer, more efficient air traffic system.

Monday, July 15, 2024

Major Sporting & Entertainment Events in July 11 Notices

Monday, July 15, 2024 @ 8:00 AM

In anticipation of the large number of aircraft operating to and from areas hosting major sporting and entertainment events, the FAA has published updated procedures in its Domestic Notices valid from July 11, 2024 to enhance safety and minimize air traffic delays.

THESE PROCEDURES MAY BE REVISED OR UNAVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF THE EVENT.  PILOTS SHOULD CHECK NOTICES AND TRAFFIC ADVISORIES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE TO ENSURE THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION. THESE NOTICES DO NOT SUPERCEDE RESTRICTIONS PERTAINING TO THE USE OF AIRSPACE CONTAINED IN FDC NOTICES.

Thursday, July 11, 2024

FAA Airport, Navigation & Chart Data is Current for July 11 Cycle

Thursday, July 11, 2024 @ 8:00 AM

Official airport, navigation and chart data for the FAA's 56-day AIRAC cycle beginning July 11, 2024 became current today as of 09:01Z.  This includes updated georeferenced data for airport diagrams and instrument approach procedures available in iFlightPlanner for iPad and iFlightPlanner for iPhone.

Anytime you access iFlightPlanner or iFlightPlanner for AOPA from your desktop, laptop, or smartphone browser you can be confident you're seeing the most current and accurate data available.

To ensure iFlightPlanner is current on your iPhone or iPad, simply tap "Check for Updates" in the upper-left corner of the Downloads tab.  Each app will quickly tell you which packages need to be updated!

The iFlightPlanner Crew
PLAN. FLY. LOG.

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Flying to Oshkosh? Free EFB memberships are waiting for you!

Tuesday, July 9, 2024 @ 8:00 AM

Flying to Oshkosh this year? The first 50 AOPA members to present their iFlightPlanner for AOPA arrival sign at the members-only happy hour on Monday, July 22, will receive a complimentary 1-year iFlightPlanner Core or iFlightPlanner Premium membership along with some great AOPA and iFlightPlanner swag!

HOW TO GET YOUR FREE SWAG

  1. Print your iFlightPlanner for AOPA arrival sign HERE and display it in your aircraft upon landing.
  2. Check in at AOPA Member Services from 9am-5pm to receive your entry bracelet for the Members-Only Deck.
  3. Be among the first 50 members to present your iFlightPlanner for AOPA arrival sign at the members-only happy hour on Monday, June 22.

PRINT MY ARRIVAL SIGN

A few NOTAMs:

  • Only arrival signs with the official iFlightPlanner for AOPA logo will be accepted.
  • iFlightPlanner Core and iFlightPlanner Premium memberships (25 of each) will be randomly distributed with each swag bag.
  • Entry bracelets for the Welcome to OSH AOPA Members-Only Happy Hour will be available from 9am-5pm at the AOPA Member Services desk, located at the AOPA Campus in Booth #463.

Connect with AOPA at AirVenture  


Welcome to OSH AOPA Members-Only Happy Hour
Monday, July 22 – 5:30-6:30pm CT

Hang out on the new AOPA Members-Only Deck, have a drink, and mingle with fellow aviation enthusiasts as we look forward to another great week at AirVenture. Check in at Member Services to receive your entry bracelet that will allow you access to the happy hour – and the Members-Only Deck all week!  If you are among the first 50 members to present your iFlightPlanner for AOPA arrival sign at the event, you'll receive a special gift from AOPA and iFlightPlanner!

Monday, July 8, 2024

FAA Airport, Navigation & Chart Data is Available for July 11 Cycle

Monday, July 8, 2024 @ 8:00 AM

iFlightPlanner for iPad and iFlightPlanner for iPhone users may now download airport and navigation data as well as aeronautical charts, georeferenced airport diagrams and terminal procedures for the FAA Data Cycle that goes into effect on July 11, 2024.  Simply tap the button in the upper-left corner of the Downloads tab to "Check For Updates."

Pilots using iFlightPlanner for AOPA or iFlightPlanner on their desktop, laptop, or mobile device will see the iFlightPlanner Cloud automatically make the transition to the new data at 9:01Z on July 11.