#pilot technology

The best EFB apps give you real-time weather, streamlined charts, and integrated flight planning—right from your cockpit. These tools are designed to replace paper charts and simplify the way you operate.

In this article, you'll find five top-rated EFB apps pilots use in general aviation, broken down by their strengths, user experience, and practical use cases. Whether you're flying VFR or IFR, you’ll learn exactly which tool aligns with your operational workflow.

1. ForeFlight – The All-in-One Powerhouse

ForeFlight remains the gold standard among EFB users. Its integration of route planning, real-time weather, NOTAMs, airspace alerts, and Jeppesen charts makes it the most complete platform for general aviation pilots.

You're working with a system that syncs across devices, including iPad, iPhone, and web. ForeFlight’s strength lies in automation—recommended routes, fuel burn estimators, performance profiles, and even 3D views that let you rehearse approaches. For commercial or recurrent IFR ops, it delivers unmatched depth.

A standout feature is its global support for VFR and IFR charts and high-resolution terrain overlays. In 2024, the addition of ICAO flight plan filing with integrated ICAO rules makes it even more valuable internationally.

2. Garmin Pilot – Perfect for Garmin Cockpits

Garmin Pilot is best if you're already flying with Garmin avionics. It creates a seamless transition between your panel and tablet, with automatic flight plan syncing and ADS-B traffic/weather via Garmin hardware.

You can visualize airspace with dynamic mapping layers, get METAR/TAF overlays, and use split-screen modes to run multiple tools at once. Where Garmin Pilot stands out is its tight coordination with Garmin GPS units and flight decks—especially G3X Touch and GTN navigators.

Its flight profile planning tools give you fuel/time estimates per leg, based on aircraft type and expected altitude. It’s especially efficient for those managing cross-country VFR flights with intermediate stops.

3. WingX – Tailored for Advanced IFR Pilots

WingX delivers strong IFR charting and approach plate organization for procedural pilots. You’ll find it especially useful for its synthetic vision, split-panel view, and extended centerline overlays, which improve situational awareness in poor visibility.

WingX Pro7 also supports AHRS integration and external GPS hardware—beneficial for aircraft without built-in systems. Its checklists, automatic geo-referenced plates, and approach briefings help minimize cockpit workload.

If you’re conducting frequent instrument flights in congested airspace or mountainous regions, the terrain and obstacle warnings provide an extra layer of operational safety.

4. FltPlan Go – Budget-Friendly and FAA-Approved

FltPlan Go is a free EFB app that pairs with FltPlan.com’s online flight planning system. It’s fully FAA-approved for use in Part 91 operations and provides essential EFB functions without subscription costs.

You get IFR/VFR charts, nav logs, ADS-B weather and traffic, aircraft checklists, and direct-to navigation—all at zero cost. The interface may not be as polished as ForeFlight or Garmin, but its utility is impressive for pilots operating on lean budgets or in training environments.

It's a go-to tool for student pilots or private pilots who want a digital backup or primary planning tool without incurring subscription fees.

5. SkyDemon – Best for European Pilots

SkyDemon dominates among general aviation pilots across Europe. It’s designed with ICAO requirements, Eurocontrol integration, and low-level corridor planning baked in. If you’re navigating across borders, this app simplifies radio frequencies, customs procedures, and route validation.

SkyDemon offers live airspace warnings, VFR visual navigation tools, NOTAM integration, and traffic overlays. It supports a paperless cockpit model that aligns well with EASA guidelines, making it a preferred choice for pilots in the UK, France, Germany, and beyond.

The chart clarity is second to none, with extremely legible mapping and on-route airfield information—critical in unfamiliar terrain or congested airspace.

Key Benefits That Streamline Your Flight Operations

At this point, you should be evaluating based on compatibility, usability, and regional needs. Here’s a breakdown of features to guide your decision:

ForeFlight: Best for global reach, IFR ops, and airline-level workflows

Garmin Pilot: Ideal for Garmin-integrated cockpits and VFR routing

WingX: IFR-focused with advanced synthetic vision features

FltPlan Go: Great for student pilots and cost-conscious operators

SkyDemon: Built for Europe, border crossing, and local airspace clarity

Choosing an app should reflect your aircraft’s avionics, regional airspace, and the type of flying you do most frequently. The right EFB app removes friction from your cockpit and keeps you flying smarter, not harder.

Top EFB apps for pilots

ForeFlight: Best all-around

Garmin Pilot: Seamless for Garmin users

WingX: Strong IFR support

FltPlan Go: Free and reliable

SkyDemon: Best in Europe

In Conclusion

Selecting the right EFB app depends on how you fly, where you fly, and the systems you're using. When integrated properly, these tools simplify workload, enhance situational awareness, and optimize your planning before and during each flight. From student pilots to experienced aviators, EFB apps are no longer optional—they’re essential.