Ask ten General Aviation pilots how they prepare a flight, and you’ll get ten different answers.
Some still rely on paper. Others use multiple apps. Many switch tools depending on the flight.
But despite the variety, the underlying needs are the same. Before every flight, GA pilots need a small, consistent set of tools to prepare safely and efficiently.
The Core Needs Before Every Flight
Regardless of aircraft type or experience level, flight preparation always comes down to a few essentials: 1. Understanding the weather 2. Planning a safe route 3. Calculating time and fuel 4. Verifying aircraft limitations 5. Preparing checklists
The difference between relaxed and rushed flights is how well these steps are supported by tools.
1. Weather Information Tools
Every pilot starts with weather. Good pilots don’t just check current conditions (METARs), they look at trends over time and how the weather will evolve during the entire flight.
The challenge isn’t access to weather data. It’s interpreting it efficiently without missing context.
2. Charts and Airspace Information
Pilots need a clear picture of controlled airspace, danger areas, and terrain. However, switching constantly between charts, NOTAMs, and planning notes often breaks focus, especially for student pilots.
3. Navigation Planning Tools
For cross-country flights, pilots must calculate headings, distances, ground speeds, and fuel burn.
Traditionally, this has been done using paper NAVLOGs or spreadsheets. These methods work, but they’re slow, repetitive, and prone to small errors that add up.
4. Aircraft Performance and Limitations
Before every flight, pilots need to verify aircraft loading and performance margins. Even small changes in weight or temperature can significantly affect performance. Treating this as a formality is one of the most common planning mistakes.
5. Checklists and Aircraft Status
Checklists are not just for the cockpit. Before the flight, pilots should confirm documents, fuel, and technical status. Well-structured checklists help prevent complacency.
The Problem: Too Many Separate Tools
Most GA pilots don’t lack tools. They lack integration.
Jumping between apps and websites increases workload. Modern GA pilots increasingly prefer tools that combine navigation planning and structured preparation in one place.
Want to prepare every flight with fewer tools and less stress? Use AeroTools to bring your entire preflight workflow into one place.