Updated March 2026|8 Apps Reviewed

Best EFB Apps for Pilots in 2026

We reviewed and compared the top 8 Electronic Flight Bag apps across features, pricing, platform support, and real-world usability. From the industry-leading ForeFlight to completely free alternatives — here are our picks for every pilot and budget.

By Renzo, CPL | 14 min read

Quick Comparison — All 8 EFB Apps

AppScoreBest For
ForeFlightEditor's Pick9.6/10US pilots, most popular EFB
Garmin Pilot9.2/10Garmin avionics owners
SkyDemonBest for Europe9.3/10European / EASA pilots
FltPlan GoBest Free8.5/10Budget-conscious pilots
AvareBest Free Android7.8/10Android pilots, open-source
WingX Pro7Best Alternative8.8/10ForeFlight alternative with synth vision
iFly GPSBest Value8.3/10Best value paid EFB
FlyQ EFBBest Budget Paid8/10Budget-friendly paid EFB

What Is an EFB (Electronic Flight Bag)?

Definition

An Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) is a software application or device that replaces traditional paper charts, approach plates, and flight planning tools in the cockpit. Modern EFB apps run on tablets — primarily iPads — and provide moving map navigation, weather overlay, geo-referenced charts, weight and balance calculations, and flight planning.

FAA Approval

The FAA has approved EFBs as legal replacements for paper charts under Advisory Circular AC 91-78. This means you can fly with only an EFB and no paper charts on board. Most flight schools, airlines, and corporate operators have adopted EFBs as standard equipment, saving weight, cost, and dramatically improving situational awareness.

Key Features of a Modern EFB

Moving Map

GPS position on chart

Offline Charts

VFR/IFR without internet

Weather

METAR, TAF, radar overlay

Flight Planning

Route, fuel, performance

W&B

Weight & balance calc

ADS-B In

Traffic & weather receiver

Detailed Reviews — All 8 EFB Apps

EDITOR'S PICK — #1 EFB App 2026
9.6
★★★★★
#1

ForeFlight

$120/yriOSiPadOS

ForeFlight is the undisputed king of EFB apps and the most widely used flight planning tool in US aviation. Used by student pilots, airline captains, military aviators, and everyone in between, ForeFlight delivers a comprehensive suite of features including moving map with geo-referenced charts, detailed weather briefings, weight and balance calculations, performance planning, and logbook integration. Its integration with virtually every major ADS-B receiver and avionics platform makes it the safest bet for any US-based pilot.

Key Features

Geo-referenced charts with moving map and ownship
Comprehensive weather briefing with radar, METARs, TAFs, SIGMETs
Full route planning with performance profiles and fuel stops
Weight & balance with aircraft-specific profiles
Synthetic vision on Pro Plus tier
ADS-B In support for Sentry, Stratus, GDL 52, Scout

Pros

  • Most feature-rich EFB available anywhere
  • Best-in-class weather briefing with graphical overlay
  • Works with every major ADS-B receiver on the market
  • Massive community, excellent documentation and support

Cons

  • iOS/iPad only — no Android or Windows support
  • Pro Plus tier at $299/yr is expensive for students
  • Requires iPad ($329+) in addition to subscription

Our Verdict

ForeFlight is our top pick for any pilot based in the United States. The combination of features, reliability, and ecosystem support is unmatched. If you fly in the US and own an iPad, ForeFlight is the standard for good reason.

Visit ForeFlightOpens official website in new tab
9.2
★★★★★
#2

Garmin Pilot

$100/yriOSiPadOSAndroid

Garmin Pilot is the natural companion for pilots who fly behind Garmin avionics. Its killer feature is Connext wireless cockpit connectivity — flight plans created on your tablet sync directly to compatible Garmin navigators like the GTN 650Xi/750Xi, GPS 175, and GNX 375. The app offers comprehensive flight planning, weather, charts, and a clean interface. The fact that it supports Android gives it a significant edge for pilots who prefer that platform.

Key Features

Connext wireless sync with Garmin panel avionics
Full US VFR/IFR charts with offline download
Weather overlay with radar, METARs, TAFs, winds aloft
Flight plan transfer to GTN 650Xi/750Xi, GPS 175
Synthetic vision on Premium tier
Available on both iOS and Android

Pros

  • Seamless Connext sync with Garmin panel avionics
  • Available on both iOS and Android
  • Clean, intuitive interface that is easy to learn
  • Lower entry price than ForeFlight

Cons

  • Feature set not as deep as ForeFlight
  • Third-party ADS-B receiver support is limited
  • Some advanced features require Garmin hardware

Our Verdict

The clear choice if you fly behind Garmin avionics. The ability to wirelessly transfer flight plans between your tablet and panel navigator is a game-changer. Also the best premium option for Android users.

Visit Garmin PilotOpens official website in new tab
BEST FOR EUROPE — #3 EFB App 2026
9.3
★★★★★
#3

SkyDemon

$120/yriOSiPadOSAndroidWindows

SkyDemon is the undisputed champion of European aviation EFB apps. While ForeFlight dominates the US, SkyDemon owns Europe — and for good reason. Built from the ground up for the complex European airspace environment with its patchwork of national regulations, restricted zones, and crossing requirements. Synthetic vision is included at no extra cost, and the moving map is clean, fast, and beautifully designed. If you fly in Europe, SkyDemon is not just the best choice — it is the only serious choice.

Key Features

Best European airspace database and visualization
Cross-border flight planning for multi-country flights
Synthetic vision included at no extra cost
Real-time airspace warnings and NOTAM integration
Full European VFR/IFR charts with offline download
Available on iOS, Android, and Windows

Pros

  • Best European airspace and cross-border planning
  • Synthetic vision included in base subscription
  • Available on iOS, Android, and Windows
  • Clean interface with excellent map design

Cons

  • US coverage is limited compared to ForeFlight
  • Smaller user community outside of Europe
  • No direct ADS-B In integration (US-style)

Our Verdict

The definitive EFB for European pilots. If you fly under EASA rules or regularly cross borders in Europe, SkyDemon is the clear winner with unmatched airspace and cross-border planning.

Visit SkyDemonOpens official website in new tab
BEST FREE — #4 EFB App 2026
8.5
★★★★
#4

FltPlan Go

FreeiOSiPadOSAndroidWindows

FltPlan Go, now part of Garmin, is the most capable free EFB app available. Originally a web-based flight planning service, the mobile app has matured into a legitimate EFB with moving map, offline charts, weather overlay, and full IFR flight plan filing — all at zero cost. It is particularly strong for flight planning and filing. For student pilots and budget-conscious aviators, FltPlan Go proves you do not need to spend a dime to have a functional EFB.

Key Features

Completely free — no subscription or in-app purchases
Full IFR flight plan filing built in
Offline US charts available for download
Weather overlay with METARs, TAFs, radar
Available on iOS, Android, and Windows
Backed by Garmin (acquired FltPlan)

Pros

  • Completely free — no subscription, no in-app purchases
  • Full IFR flight plan filing built in
  • Available on iOS, Android, and Windows
  • Solid flight planning and weather briefing tools

Cons

  • No synthetic vision capability
  • Interface feels dated compared to ForeFlight
  • Limited ADS-B receiver compatibility

Our Verdict

The best free EFB app available, period. If you are a student pilot on a tight budget or want a capable backup EFB, FltPlan Go delivers impressive functionality at no cost.

Visit FltPlan GoOpens official website in new tab
BEST FREE ANDROID — #5 EFB App 2026
7.8
★★★★
#5

Avare

FreeAndroid

Avare is the only fully open-source aviation EFB app, developed by a community of pilots and engineers who believe aviation safety tools should be free. Available exclusively on Android, Avare provides moving map navigation with free FAA chart downloads, basic weather information, and GPS tracking. Supported by the Apps4Av non-profit, it fills an important niche: a genuinely free, no-strings-attached moving map for Android pilots.

Key Features

100% free and open-source — no hidden costs
FAA charts download directly at no charge
Active open-source community development
Lightweight and runs on older Android devices
No account registration or personal data required
ADS-B support via add-on plugins

Pros

  • 100% free and open source — no hidden costs
  • FAA charts download at no charge
  • Active community development
  • Runs on older Android devices

Cons

  • Android only — no iOS version
  • No synthetic vision or advanced features
  • Interface is basic and dated

Our Verdict

The best option for Android pilots who want a completely free moving map. It will not replace ForeFlight, but as a free backup EFB or a student pilot's first moving map, Avare gets the job done.

Visit AvareOpens official website in new tab
BEST ALTERNATIVE — #6 EFB App 2026
8.8
★★★★
#6

WingX Pro7

$100/yriOSiPadOS

WingX Pro7 has earned a loyal following among pilots who value its included synthetic vision and no-nonsense approach to EFB functionality. At $100 per year, WingX Pro7 includes features that ForeFlight charges $299 for — most notably synthetic vision, which provides a 3D terrain view in the cockpit. The app also highlights strong TFR alerting, which has saved many pilots from inadvertent airspace incursions. While the UI is not as refined as ForeFlight, the value proposition is strong.

Key Features

Synthetic vision included in base $100/yr price
Strong TFR alerting and visualization
Full US charts with offline download
Weather overlay with METARs, TAFs, radar, winds
Profile-based weight and balance calculator
ADS-B support for Dual XGPS, Stratus, Sentry

Pros

  • Synthetic vision included at $100/yr (vs $299 ForeFlight)
  • Strong TFR alerting and visualization
  • Good ADS-B receiver compatibility
  • Solid chart and weather overlay

Cons

  • iOS/iPad only — no Android support
  • Interface not as polished as ForeFlight
  • Smaller community and fewer resources

Our Verdict

A compelling ForeFlight alternative for pilots who want synthetic vision at $100/year instead of $299. If synth vision matters and budget is a concern, WingX Pro7 deserves a serious look.

Visit WingX Pro7Opens official website in new tab
BEST VALUE — #7 EFB App 2026
8.3
★★★★
#7

iFly GPS

$75/yriOSiPadOSAndroidWindows

iFly GPS carved out a loyal following as the affordable alternative to ForeFlight. At $75 per year, it undercuts ForeFlight by nearly 40% while delivering a solid feature set including moving map, offline charts, weather overlay, synthetic vision, weight and balance, and flight planning. Multi-platform support means it runs on iOS, Android, and even Windows, making it the most accessible paid EFB for pilots who do not use Apple devices.

Key Features

Most affordable paid EFB at $75/year
Synthetic vision included (not a premium add-on)
Multi-platform: iOS, Android, and Windows
Offline charts with US VFR/IFR coverage
Weather overlay with METARs, TAFs, radar
Good ADS-B receiver compatibility

Pros

  • Most affordable paid EFB at $75/yr
  • Multi-platform: iOS, Android, Windows
  • Synthetic vision included
  • Good ADS-B receiver compatibility

Cons

  • Interface less polished than ForeFlight
  • Smaller development team, slower updates
  • Flight planning not as robust as competitors

Our Verdict

The best budget paid EFB. If ForeFlight pricing is too steep or you need an Android/Windows EFB with synthetic vision, iFly GPS delivers excellent value at nearly half the price.

Visit iFly GPSOpens official website in new tab
BEST BUDGET PAID — #8 EFB App 2026
8
★★★★
#8

FlyQ EFB

$50/yriOSiPadOS

FlyQ EFB by Seattle Avionics offers a surprisingly capable EFB experience at the lowest price point of any paid app. At just $50 per year, it includes geo-referenced approach plates, taxi diagrams, offline charts, weather overlay, and flight plan filing through Leidos. The app also integrates fuel pricing so you can find the cheapest fuel stops along your route. While it lacks the depth of ForeFlight or Garmin Pilot, FlyQ EFB punches well above its weight for budget-conscious pilots who want more than a free EFB can offer.

Key Features

Lowest-priced paid EFB at $50/year
Geo-referenced approach plates and taxi diagrams
Offline charts with US VFR/IFR coverage
Weather overlay with METARs, TAFs, radar
Fuel price integration for cost-effective stops
Flight plan filing through Leidos

Pros

  • Cheapest paid EFB at $50/yr
  • Geo-referenced approach plates included
  • Fuel price integration for cost-effective stops
  • Flight plan filing through Leidos

Cons

  • iOS only — no Android version
  • No synthetic vision
  • Smaller community than ForeFlight or Garmin

Our Verdict

The best EFB for pilots who want paid-app features at the absolute lowest price. At $50/yr, FlyQ EFB delivers geo-referenced plates, weather, and flight planning that free apps cannot match.

Visit FlyQ EFBOpens official website in new tab

Feature Comparison by Category

How each EFB app stacks up across the five most important feature categories for pilots.

Charts & Maps

Offline chart downloads, geo-referenced plates, sectionals, IFR enroute, and approach plates.

AppScoreCharts & Maps
ForeFlight9.6Full US + Intl
Garmin Pilot9.2Full US VFR/IFR
SkyDemon9.3Full European coverage
FltPlan Go8.5US FAA charts
Avare7.8US FAA charts (free)
WingX Pro78.8Full US charts
iFly GPS8.3Full US VFR/IFR
FlyQ EFB8US VFR/IFR + plates

Weather

In-app weather overlay including METARs, TAFs, radar imagery, SIGMETs, PIREPs, and winds aloft.

AppScoreWeather
ForeFlight9.6Radar, METAR, TAF, SIGMET, PIREP
Garmin Pilot9.2Radar, METAR, TAF, winds
SkyDemon9.3European METAR/TAF, radar
FltPlan Go8.5METAR, TAF, radar
Avare7.8Basic METAR/TAF
WingX Pro78.8METAR, TAF, radar, winds
iFly GPS8.3METAR, TAF, radar
FlyQ EFB8METAR, TAF, radar

Weight & Balance

Aircraft-specific W&B profiles, CG envelope visualization, and performance planning.

AppScoreWeight & Balance
ForeFlight9.6Full profiles
Garmin Pilot9.2Full profiles
SkyDemon9.3Full profiles
FltPlan Go8.5Basic
Avare7.8No
WingX Pro78.8Profile-based
iFly GPS8.3Full profiles
FlyQ EFB8Basic

Flight Planning

Route planning, fuel stops, performance calculations, and IFR flight plan filing.

AppScoreFlight Planning
ForeFlight9.6Full route + performance
Garmin Pilot9.2Full route + Garmin sync
SkyDemon9.3Route + airspace alerts
FltPlan Go8.5Full route + IFR filing
Avare7.8Basic route
WingX Pro78.8Route + TFR alerts
iFly GPS8.3Route + fuel stops
FlyQ EFB8Route + Leidos filing

Traffic (ADS-B)

ADS-B In receiver compatibility for in-cockpit traffic and weather data.

AppScoreTraffic (ADS-B)
ForeFlight9.6ADS-B In (all receivers)
Garmin Pilot9.2GDL 52, GDL 52R
SkyDemon9.3Bluetooth receivers
FltPlan Go8.5Limited (Stratus)
Avare7.8Via plugins
WingX Pro78.8Dual XGPS, Stratus, Sentry
iFly GPS8.3Multiple receivers
FlyQ EFB8Stratus, Sentry

iPad vs Android for Pilots

The platform you choose determines which EFB apps are available. Here is a side-by-side comparison of the two ecosystems for cockpit use.

iPad / iOS

  • ForeFlight (exclusive) — the #1 EFB app
  • Largest selection of aviation apps
  • iPad Mini is the cockpit standard
  • Cellular models have better GPS chips
  • Most ADS-B receivers optimized for iPad
  • Best accessory ecosystem (mounts, cases)

AVAILABLE EFBs: ForeFlight, Garmin Pilot, FltPlan Go, SkyDemon, WingX Pro7, iFly GPS, FlyQ EFB

Android

  • More affordable hardware options
  • Garmin Pilot is excellent on Android
  • FltPlan Go and SkyDemon available
  • Avare is free and open-source
  • iFly GPS offers great value
  • Samsung tablets popular for aviation

AVAILABLE EFBs: Garmin Pilot, FltPlan Go, SkyDemon, iFly GPS, Avare

Our Recommendation

If you are buying a new tablet specifically for flying, get an iPad Mini (cellular model) — it gives you access to every EFB app, including ForeFlight, and the cellular GPS chip provides better position accuracy even without a data plan. If you already own a good Android tablet, Garmin Pilot ($100/yr) is the best premium choice, and FltPlan Go is free. Do not let the tablet platform decision hold you back from using an EFB — any EFB is better than no EFB.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best EFB app for pilots?

ForeFlight is the best overall EFB app for US pilots, scoring 9.6/10 in our review. It offers the most comprehensive feature set, best weather briefing, widest ADS-B receiver compatibility, and the largest pilot community. For European pilots, SkyDemon (9.3/10) is the top choice. For Android users, Garmin Pilot (9.2/10) is the best premium option.

Is there a free EFB app for pilots?

Yes. FltPlan Go is the best free EFB, offering moving map, offline charts, weather overlay, and IFR flight plan filing at zero cost. Avare is the best free option for Android-only users. Both are legitimate EFBs suitable as primary or backup tools, though neither matches the depth of paid options like ForeFlight or Garmin Pilot.

Do I need an iPad for an EFB app?

No, but iPads are the most supported platform. ForeFlight is iPad-only, but Garmin Pilot, FltPlan Go, SkyDemon, iFly GPS, and Avare all support Android. If buying new hardware for flying, the iPad Mini (cellular model for better GPS) is the cockpit standard. If you already have an Android tablet, you have excellent EFB options available.

Can an EFB app replace paper charts?

Yes. The FAA has approved EFBs as replacements for paper charts under AC 91-78, meaning you can legally fly with only an EFB and no paper charts. However, always download offline charts before every flight — cellular coverage is unreliable at altitude. Many pilots carry a backup device or a second EFB app for redundancy.

What is the cheapest paid EFB app?

FlyQ EFB at $50/yr is the cheapest paid EFB with geo-referenced plates, weather overlay, and flight plan filing. iFly GPS at $75/yr is the best value when factoring in synthetic vision and multi-platform support. Both significantly undercut ForeFlight ($120/yr) while delivering solid core EFB functionality for VFR and IFR pilots.

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