An iPad can be an invaluable tool in the cockpit, but it can often be hard to find the perfect position and location for it. It needs to be set up so it is easy to view and use without getting in the way.
Generally, you can either mount the iPad using a yoke or suction mount, or rely on a pilot kneeboard to attach the iPad onto your lap.
Some pilots prefer using a kneeboard while others prefer to use a mount, as constantly having to look down can negatively impact situational awareness.
If you choose to go for a mount option, the following are your best bet.
With its super-strong suction cup, I found there to be no issue when securely attaching it onto any flat surface, where it remained even under the intense vibration of my aircraft.
Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, I found the MyGoFlight Flex Suction Cup to be light-weight and easy to configure, while managing to be heavy-duty enough to deal with any turbulence or shock.
The adjustable arm is a very welcome feature that any pilot will appreciate, as it allowed me to adjust the position of my iPad with precision, either vertically or horizontally.
RAM X-Grip Suction Cup MountThe RAM X-Grip is best suited for the iPad Mini, and allows for precise adjustment.
New: $84.99
Best suited for the iPad Mini, the RAM X-Grip Suction Mount features a spring-loaded ‘X’ design for excellent holding power.
Due to its ball and socket technology design, I was able to adjust the position of the mount very precisely.
There wasn’t any need to worry about the RAM Suction Cup Mount attaching to any flat surface either. And thanks to its twist-lock design, once the device was attached, I couldn’t get it to budge.
MyGoFlight Flex Yoke Sport MountLightweight and made from aluminum and stainless steel, the MyGoFlight Flex Yoke Sport Mount is compatible with any 7-inch to 11-inch tablet or iPad.
New: $149.00
The MyGoFlight Flex Yoke Sport Mount is compatible with any 7-inch to 11-inch tablet or iPad, making it suitable for use with the latest generation iPad Mini, iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro models.
Constructed from aluminum and stainless steel, and weighing just 4 ounces, it is lightweight and designed to handle up to a 20g impact.
The Yoke Sport Aviation Mount was easy to install, and its quick-release toggle clasp ensured that removal and adjustment to and from landscape and portrait positions was quick and easy.
Any vibration was also kept to a minimum, regardless of in-flight conditions.
RAM Double Socket Arm MountIdeal for the iPad Mini and features a non-slip, shock, and vibration dampening design
New: $63.99
Ideal for the iPad Mini, this yoke mount from RAM incorporates a non-slip, shock, and vibration dampening design to keep your iPad secure and safe as you fly.
Made of high-strength composite and stainless steel, the RAM Double Socket Arm Mount was quickly to attach and didn’t move once it had been attached.
How I Picked the Best iPad Mounts for Pilots
Suction Mount vs. Yoke Mount Difference
A suction mount does exactly what it says: it mounts your iPad onto the windshield through suction. As it can easily be attached anywhere on the windshield, it is the more flexible option.
A yoke mount utilizes an aircraft’s yoke to attach an iPad via a clamp mount. Because of this, it isn’t as flexible, but can be better suited for smaller cockpits where space is at a premium.
Aircraft Type
If you fly a Cessna high-wing (Cessna 172, Cessna182, etc.), Cirrus or Cessna Corvalis, or Piper and Mooney, using either a suction cup mount or yoke mount is usually fine. Either will work, and the decision for which one to use will come down to preference.
It is only when you begin to fly small/mid-size jets that you should opt for a kneeboard.
Brand
There are only two brands that pilots rely on when it comes to iPad mounts: RAM and MyGoFlight.
These companies specifically design mounts for pilots, whereas the majority of other companies focus more on non-aviation modes of transportation like vehicles.
Helen Krasner holds a PPL(A), with 15 years experience flying fixed-wing aircraft; a PPL(H), with 13 years experience flying helicopters; and a CPL(H), Helicopter Instructor Rating, with 12 years working as a helicopter instructor.
Helen is an accomplished aviation writer with 12 years of experience, having authored several books and published numerous articles while also serving as the Editor of the BWPA (British Women Pilots Association) newsletter, with her excellent work having been recognized with her nomination of the “Aviation Journalist of the Year” award.
Helen has won the “Dawn to Dusk” International Flying Competition, along with the best all-female competitors, three times with her copilot.
