The Garmin app has been updated for Pilot aviation, adding a slew of functions to improve the user experience. The app now integrates both iOS and Android devices with the company’s recently released GTX 345 ADS-B In/Out transponder. New views, airspace labels, access to X-Plane version 10 or higher through Wi-Fi, and VFR charts for the United Kingdom have also been added.
The integration with Garmin’s GTX 345 ADS-B transponder means that your portable device, whether iOS- or Android-based, can get subscription-free weather, traffic, GPS positioning and backup attitude data streamed directly from the panel-mounted device to the Garmin app for pilots.
The Garmin app has also added a flight profile view that allows iPad users to see the vertical track for each flight. The profile view shows weather, airspace and obstacles, and terrain in a different color, allowing the pilot to quickly evaluate the safety of the targeted cruise altitude.
On the moving map display, the Garmin app now has airport widget tabs that provide quick access to altitudes, frequencies and other pertinent airport information.
The Trip Planning section of Pilot has also been enhanced, adding access to the Altitude Selector Guide and warnings for IFR conditions. Selecting an alternate airport has become easier through Garmin’s Alternate Airport Selection Guide that displays airport information and weather.
Pilots flying to Europe can now access VFR charts in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales with an additional $34.99 annual subscription. The Garmin app expects to add VFR coverage in France in April.
