IFD Trainer

Great simulator app, but it crashes far too frequently. The app needs some attention from developers to make it stable enough to use effectively. It would also be very nice if a user-defined origin point could be saved. It’s annoying to have to set the current location every time the app is started, especially because the app is so brittle and crashes all the time. A great gps navigator deserves a more reliable simulator app to showcase the avionic’s capabilities and to provide a better learning experience.

response required

I’ve used several simulators and I am familiar with and use a variety of systems similar to the Avidyne 540. I purchased an airplane with the 540 already installed and after giving it a try and attempting this simulator I’m just going to yank it out and get a functional GPS. Don’t get me wrong I think the 540 has promise, but avidyne needs to figure out how to make it easy to learn and get started on. The simulator data base issue where you need to have a jeppsen account just to use the simulator and the demo data base doesn’t work is just designed for frustration. Same problem with the actual unit. I really think it could be an easy to use unit, provided you can get started with it. The folks at avidyne just have to many useless hurdles with unnecessary complications. I’ve already been to two avionics shops, and the unit just needs updates that are difficult to install, require repeated calls to tech support, and take way to much time, just like the simulator. Other systems are plug and play compared to these and I strongly suggest looking at other systems.

response required

Frequent crashes makes it useless except for some elementary functions. (On iPad Pro with plenty of memory, worse on iPad2) Lacks adequate controls, like controlling altitude in most scenarios and set initial position of aircraft. Flight plan and settings are lost on crash/restart. Documentation useful to sales demo level, not deep enough for actual training. Coupling of Jepps database extremely confusing for beginners, desperately needs an simple explanation of the system architecture in addition to the overly simplistic instructions. Also, downloading a live database apparently not shared copy with app used with real units. (Should just bypass the whole Jepps step by default, would be much easier for beginners.)

The latest update requires a lot more memory than the previous version, making it less stable on my admittedly old iPad 2. That drops it from 5 to 3 stars. Maps on simulator are free and require no Jepp account, contrary to what others have said here. It's a little tricky, but you have to select "Demo" rather than logging in. I'm lucky I got some good practice in before the update. I feel mostly ready to get my upgraded plane back from Port City Air and fly some real approaches.

Download the available databases and it exactly duplicates a IFD440 or 540. I taught myself how to use the IFD540 while the actual GPS was being installed in my airplane with this app. Reading the IFD pilot guide is a must. But being able to actually simulate what you are reading is the next best thing to using it while in flight. This app allows you to do that while learning how to use the IFD.