ForeFlight iPad requirements
According to ForeFlight’s device compatibility table (last updated March 31, 2026), current versions of ForeFlight Mobile install on iPads running iPadOS 18 or later. On iPadOS 26 and later, that includes:
- iPad mini (5th generation) and newer
- iPad (8th generation) and newer
- iPad Air (3rd generation) and newer
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation) and newer, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) and newer, and iPad Pro 13-inch
The iPad (7th generation) also supports current ForeFlight on iPadOS 18. Devices limited to older operating systems may require older ForeFlight versions; see Apple’s iPadOS 26 compatibility list. Any iPad you buy new from Apple today meets these requirements. If you are buying used, check the model against ForeFlight’s table first, because the minimum iPadOS version rises over time.
iPad mini for pilots: size and mounting
The iPad mini is small enough to strap to a kneeboard or mount on a yoke, depending on the aircraft and mount; check instrument visibility and control clearance. The current iPad mini (A17 Pro) has an 8.3-inch display, and Apple lists the Wi-Fi model at 293 grams (0.65 pound). In a small cockpit, that size is often easier to manage than a larger tablet.
The trade-off is chart size. Approach plates and sectional charts show less at once, so you zoom and pan more. If you brief detailed procedures on the screen, you may prefer more space.
As with every iPad, only the Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad mini has built-in GPS. See which iPads have GPS.
When a larger iPad makes sense
| Model | Screen sizes | Built-in GPS |
|---|---|---|
| iPad mini (A17 Pro) | 8.3-inch | Wi-Fi + Cellular model only |
| iPad (A16) | 11-inch | Wi-Fi + Cellular model only |
| iPad Air (M4) | 11-inch or 13-inch | Wi-Fi + Cellular model only |
| iPad Pro (M5) | 11-inch or 13-inch | Wi-Fi + Cellular model only |
An 11-inch iPad shows a full approach plate at a more readable size and leaves room for split-screen views. A 13-inch iPad Air or iPad Pro gives the most chart area, but it is best mounted in a roomier cockpit rather than worn on a kneeboard. The entry-level iPad (A16) is Apple’s lowest-priced current model; iPad Air and iPad Pro add faster chips and other features you may not need for ForeFlight.
How much storage does ForeFlight need?
Storage can’t be expanded later, so ForeFlight recommends sizing up from what you think you need. Its published examples:
- About 2 GB for initial online use: the app (about 350 MB) plus required downloads (about 1.5 GB), excluding charts and plates. Download the charts and procedures you need before going offline.
- About 21.3 GB to download everything for the lower 48 US states and Hawaii, or about 12.4 GB for Canada.
- About 480 MB on average for one US state, or 950 MB for one Canadian province or territory.
- An extra 10–20% for a few days around each chart cycle changeover.
Leave room for iPadOS updates, other aviation apps, and documents as well.
Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi + Cellular?
A Wi-Fi + Cellular iPad has built-in GPS that works without a data plan. A Wi-Fi iPad costs less, but it needs a GPS source for ForeFlight to show your position in flight: a Bluetooth GPS receiver, an ADS-B receiver, or your iPhone’s GPS through AviaGPS.
The price difference between the Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular versions varies by model, storage, and market. Compare models on Apple’s site and include the cost of any receiver you would add. Compare every GPS option.
Save on your next iPad: buy Wi-Fi, use your iPhone’s GPS
In the US, Apple charges US$150 more for the Wi-Fi + Cellular version of the iPad mini (A17 Pro) and the iPad (A16) at every storage size (Apple Store prices, October 2026). If you only want cellular for GPS, you can choose the Wi-Fi model and let ForeFlight use the GPS in the iPhone you already carry.
Quick picks
- Small cockpit or kneeboard: iPad mini.
- Lowest price for an 11-inch screen: iPad (A16).
- Largest charts and plates: 13-inch iPad Air or iPad Pro, mounted.
- Built-in GPS: any Wi-Fi + Cellular model.
- Best value if you carry an iPhone: a Wi-Fi iPad mini or iPad, with GPS from your iPhone through AviaGPS.
Questions about your setup? Email [email protected].