VFR Flight Planning with Paper Charts versus Electronic Charts

Authors

Tyler A. Babb, Middle Tennessee State UniversityFollow

Abstract

Historically, VFR flight planning has been accomplished using an E6B flight computer, paper chart, and navigation plotter. Pilots have used these tools to determine the course, speed, and fuel required for a particular flight. These conventional tools have been a cornerstone of private pilot training for many years. Many types of flight planning software are currently available with a great range in cost and capability. ForeFlight Mobile™ is one of the most prominent flight software applications in use today. The software provides electronic navigation charts and tools that simplify flight planning for pilots. Distance, speed, and time calculations can be handled instantaneously, applying numerous variables to a VFR flight plan. The purpose of this study is to identify differences in pilot skills and/or knowledge when comparing conventional VFR flight planning with flight planning using ForeFlight™ software.

Recommended Citation

Babb, Tyler A. (2016) "VFR Flight Planning with Paper Charts versus Electronic Charts," International Journal of Aviation Sciences (IJAS): Vol. 1: Iss. 2, Article 2.
Available at: https://repository.fit.edu/ijas/vol1/iss2/2