CramCleanClimb

Hey guys, I'm about to start ATP flight school in October and I was looking at some of their requirements; specifically that we HAVE TO HAVE an Ipad with 32gb and wi-fi + cellular..... This is ridiculous

I already have an android tablet (way better) and Garmin flight app for charts and plates (not as good as Fore Flight but it does the job). I asked the girl at the call center and she says its necessary for course ware and location (gps????).

Any of you guys currently going through ATP or recently gone through know if there is a workaround? I'd hate to have to spend an extra 700 bucks for redundant equipment and software plus paying for data on a table.

I cannot stand apple products but if I have no choice then I'm wondering if I ABSOLUTELY need the cell option or if there is some flexibility with this (i.e. thether my cell phone to my tablet....)

Thanks and safe landings,
Andres

Flightcap

Andres,

I can't speak to the ATP specific requirements, but the 3g / 4g versions have a GPS chip installed that operates independently of the broadband service. I have a 32gb with 3g version, and have never activated the broadband part of it. I just use the GPS signal as a situational awareness aid in ForeFlight. ForeFlight is worth every penny, IMHO.

azapateiro1

If need to buy an iPad , check groupon.com,,, the have iPads with cell capabilities for $400+ no need to spend 700.. Just in case,,,,

Jma313

I'm a current student. You need an iPad as the ATP app. Only works on that and that app is crucial to training. I would looka round at different flight schools...ATP isn't what they make it out to be

Temocil27

Honestly, if you are going to drop $70,000 to get your ratings I wouldn't complain about having to purchase an iPad. That's like buying a Maserati then complaining the cost of gas is too high.

SlimIV

If you don't mind, can you expound on that. I am about to start training at ATP, and would appreciate any additional information.

worksweekdays

If you are not yet a student at ATP, my advice is run as far away from that place as fast as you can. I just recently heard one of their instructors say "I don't know what I'd do if we lost the engine on the cessna right after takeoff". Just one example I have. The instructors there have gone zero to hero in 90 days. Not only do they not know the material in and out but they also don't know how to be an instructor. Choose life and choose to be smart with your training, go somewhere else.

gdpballin

The app only works for an iPad (to my knowledge) so you will need to get an iPad. It's not necessary for you to get the cellular and I made it through with 16g iPad. Cellular allows you to see your position as you are flying, not a big deal. If you do get cellular, you don't need to get a data plan.

PM me if you have more questions.

aviatorhi

Avoid ATP altogether and get your ratings the right way.

A good (non pilot mill) Part 141 school, or a traditional Part 61 approach. Worst pilots I fly with typically come from ATP. If you insist on going 141, WestWind in the Phoenix area has some of the better instructors I've run into at the 141 level, actual professional instructors even, not just guys banging out 1000 hours to move on.

You'll save enough money to buy 30 iPads or more.

Also, notice all the people who already fly professionally are giving you the same advice in this thread.

fiveninerzero

Just go to a different school.

Also, you can cheap out and buy an iPad with wifi only, then go online and buy a bluetooth external GPS puck for $50-$120 bucks, which will enable your moving map.