Pilot Watch Is More About Function Than Fashion

A simple device can be your best bet for timing training flights.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 09:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Aa basic device that you can easily read, like a stopwatch or basic wristwatch, will work in the cockpit for most pilots when it comes to timing flights. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

Digital timers on smart devices can cause student pilots to fall behind due to activation delays, making dedicated timing difficult.
A reliable, easily readable timing device is crucial for student pilots to track essential flight parameters like ground speed and fuel burn.
There's no need for expensive, complex pilot watches; a simple, inexpensive stopwatch or basic analog wristwatch is perfectly adequate.
Practical solutions include easily visible wristwatches or panel-mounted stopwatches, allowing pilots to stay ahead of the aircraft.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Question: I am a student pilot who has just started the dual cross-country phase of training. The analog clock in the airplane doesn’t work very well, and it’s hard to read. So I tried to use the timer on the iPad and smartphone during the flight, but I ended up getting behind the airplane. My CFI recommended I get a wrist watch to do the time calculations instead.

I really can’t see myself getting one of those big expensive pilot watches with the confusing dials. Is there an easier way to time a flight and still stay ahead of the airplane?