Modern flight training has gone digital, and for most student pilots, the iPad is your new best friend in the cockpit. From navigation with ForeFlight to checking METARs, iPads have transformed how beginners learn to fly. But hereβs the deal β if your iPad isnβt securely mounted, it becomes a hazard instead of a help.
In this article, we review the best iPad mounts for student pilots in 2025, comparing kneeboards, yoke mounts, and suction mounts that are reliable, affordable, and perfect for training aircraft.
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π§ Why Student Pilots Need a Secure iPad Mount
Holding your iPad in your lap or balancing it on the seat next to you might work⦠until you hit turbulence or need both hands on the controls.
Here’s why a proper mount is essential:
β Situational Awareness
Having your EFB (Electronic Flight Bag) in your direct line of sight helps you stay aware of your route, weather, and airspace without looking down or fumbling.
π‘οΈ Safety
A mounted iPad stays secure and avoids flying around the cockpit during turbulence or sudden maneuvers.
π Professionalism
Mounting your tablet like a pro helps you develop good cockpit habits early in your flying career.
π Types of iPad Mounts (Pros & Cons)
Before choosing a mount, understand the options:
Mount Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Kneeboard | Small cockpits, Cessnas | Portable, no cockpit setup | Can block yoke movement |
Yoke Mount | Planes with a yoke | Direct eye-line viewing | May not fit all aircraft |
Suction Mount | Side window/left seat use | Very flexible positioning | Suction can fail with heat |
β Best iPad Mounts for Student Pilots (2025 Picks)
Mount | Type | Best For | Price Range |
---|---|---|---|
MyGoFlight iPad Sport Mount | Yoke | Direct viewing angle | $$$ |
RAM Mount Suction + X-Grip Kit | Suction | Versatile mounting | $$ |
ASA iPad Kneeboard | Kneeboard | Simplicity & budget | $ |
Flight Outfitters Slim Kneeboard | Kneeboard | Compact cockpits | $ |
PIVOT Universal Mount Kit | Yoke & Suction Combo | EFB users | $$$ |
Letβs dive into each option:
1. π οΈ MyGoFlight iPad Sport Mount β Yoke Base
This premium yoke mount is designed for serious student pilots who use ForeFlight and fly regularly. It’s durable, lightweight, and trusted by flight schools and CFIs.
π§ Features:
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Quick-connect mechanism
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Tilt/swivel adjustments
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Aircraft-grade aluminum
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Compatible with most Cessna and Piper yokes
β Pros:
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Rock-solid mounting
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Great for IFR training
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Doesnβt block view of instruments
β Cons:
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Pricey for students
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Not compatible with all yoke designs
2. π§² RAM Mount X-Grip Suction Cup Mount Kit
The RAM Mount X-Grip is a popular, affordable solution that offers flexibility and universal compatibility. It uses a suction base that attaches to your window or dashboard.
π§ Features:
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Spring-loaded X-Grip holder
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1-inch ball joints for angle adjustments
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Heavy-duty suction cup
β Pros:
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Works with nearly any cockpit
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Holds firm in most conditions
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Budget-friendly
β Cons:
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Suction may fail in extreme heat
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Not legal for permanent installs (Part 135+)
3. πΌ ASA iPad Kneeboard β Budget Pick
If you’re just getting started and want the simplest, cheapest way to mount your iPad, go with the ASA kneeboard. Itβs an all-in-one organizer and mount strapped to your leg.
π§ Features:
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Elastic leg strap with Velcro
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iPad cradle fits most models
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Pen loops, chart pocket
β Pros:
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Extremely affordable
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No suction or mounting required
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Light and easy to carry
β Cons:
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May interfere with yoke
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Less secure than rigid mounts
4. βοΈ Flight Outfitters Slim iPad Kneeboard
This slim-profile kneeboard is designed for tight cockpits like the Cessna 152 or Piper Warrior. Perfect for student pilots learning in smaller aircraft.
π§ Features:
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Removable clipboard
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Dual elastic straps for comfort
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Soft micro-fiber interior
β Pros:
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Thin, low-profile
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Wonβt block controls
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Stylish and functional
β Cons:
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Limited storage options
5. π§³ PIVOT Universal Mount Kit β Combo System
The PIVOT system is designed for student pilots planning to fly professionally. It comes with mounts for both suction and yoke, making it adaptable as your flight training evolves.
π§ Features:
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Quick release iPad case system
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Suction, yoke, and kneeboard support
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Airline-grade durability
β Pros:
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Best for long-term use
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Multiple mounting options
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Extremely secure
β Cons:
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Requires proprietary iPad case
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Higher price point
π What Size iPad Should You Mount?
If you’re still shopping for an iPad to pair with your mount, consider this:
iPad Model | Screen Size | Ideal Mount Type |
---|---|---|
iPad Mini (6th) | 8.3″ | Kneeboard, yoke |
iPad Air | 10.9″ | Suction, kneeboard |
iPad Pro (11″) | 11″ | Yoke, suction |
The iPad Mini 6 is the most popular among student pilots because itβs compact, powerful, and fits most general aviation cockpits without blocking instruments.
βοΈ Tips for Mounting iPads Safely in Small Aircraft
Hereβs how to avoid mounting mishaps:
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Clean the Mounting Surface β For suction cups to work well, the window or panel must be clean and dry.
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Test Before Takeoff β Always mount and adjust your iPad before engine start.
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Secure with a Tether β Especially for suction-mounted iPads, tether the device in case of failure.
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Use Flight Mode β Disable cellular and notifications to preserve battery and avoid distractions.
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Have a Backup β Always carry a paper chart or handheld GPS in case your iPad dies.
βοΈ Final Thoughts: Which Mount Should You Pick?
Choosing the best iPad mount depends on your aircraft, your training style, and your budget.
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Tight budget? Go with the ASA Kneeboard.
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Want simplicity and security? Try the RAM X-Grip Suction Mount.
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Flying long-term? The PIVOT Kit is your forever solution.
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Small cockpit? Youβll love the Flight Outfitters Slim Kneeboard.
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Training in a Cessna 172? The MyGoFlight Yoke Mount is unbeatable.
Whatever you choose, a proper iPad mount will keep you organized, professional, and safer in the sky.
Fly smart and stay organized!