πŸ§‘β€βœˆοΈ Best iPad Mounts for Student Pilots in 2025: Yoke, Suction, and Kneeboard Options Reviewed

Best iPad Mounts for Student Pilots

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 here’s the deal β€” if your iPad isn’t 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.

✈️ Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and purchase, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. It helps us test more gear and keep these guides free!


🧭 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:

βœ… 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.

πŸ›‘οΈ Safety

A mounted iPad stays secure and avoids flying around the cockpit during turbulence or sudden maneuvers.

πŸ“ˆ Professionalism

Mounting your tablet like a pro helps you develop good cockpit habits early in your flying career.


πŸ” 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

βœ… 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 $$$

Let’s dive into each option:


1. πŸ› οΈ MyGoFlight iPad Sport Mount – Yoke Base

MyGoFlight iPad Sport Mount

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.

πŸ”§ Features:

  • Quick-connect mechanism

  • Tilt/swivel adjustments

  • Aircraft-grade aluminum

  • Compatible with most Cessna and Piper yokes

βœ… Pros:

  • Rock-solid mounting

  • Great for IFR training

  • Doesn’t block view of instruments

❌ Cons:

  • Pricey for students

  • Not compatible with all yoke designs

πŸ‘‰ Check Price on Amazon


2. 🧲 RAM Mount X-Grip Suction Cup Mount Kit

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.

πŸ”§ Features:

  • Spring-loaded X-Grip holder

  • 1-inch ball joints for angle adjustments

  • Heavy-duty suction cup

βœ… Pros:

  • Works with nearly any cockpit

  • Holds firm in most conditions

  • Budget-friendly

❌ Cons:

  • Suction may fail in extreme heat

  • Not legal for permanent installs (Part 135+)

πŸ‘‰ Check Price on Amazon


3. πŸ’Ό ASA iPad Kneeboard – Budget Pick

ASA iPad Kneeboard

If you’re just getting started and want the simplest, cheapest way to mount your iPad, go with the ASA kneeboard. It’s an all-in-one organizer and mount strapped to your leg.

πŸ”§ Features:

  • Elastic leg strap with Velcro

  • iPad cradle fits most models

  • Pen loops, chart pocket

βœ… Pros:

  • Extremely affordable

  • No suction or mounting required

  • Light and easy to carry

❌ Cons:

  • May interfere with yoke

  • Less secure than rigid mounts

πŸ‘‰ Check Price on Amazon


4. βœ‚οΈ Flight Outfitters Slim iPad Kneeboard

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.

πŸ”§ Features:

  • Removable clipboard

  • Dual elastic straps for comfort

  • Soft micro-fiber interior

βœ… Pros:

  • Thin, low-profile

  • Won’t block controls

  • Stylish and functional

❌ Cons:

  • Limited storage options

πŸ‘‰ Check Price on Amazon


5. 🧳 PIVOT Universal Mount Kit – Combo System

PIVOT Universal Mount Kit

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.

πŸ”§ Features:

  • Quick release iPad case system

  • Suction, yoke, and kneeboard support

  • Airline-grade durability

βœ… Pros:

  • Best for long-term use

  • Multiple mounting options

  • Extremely secure

❌ Cons:

  • Requires proprietary iPad case

  • Higher price point

πŸ‘‰ Check Price on Amazon


πŸ”‹ 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 it’s compact, powerful, and fits most general aviation cockpits without blocking instruments.


✏️ Tips for Mounting iPads Safely in Small Aircraft

Here’s how to avoid mounting mishaps:

  1. Clean the Mounting Surface – For suction cups to work well, the window or panel must be clean and dry.

  2. Test Before Takeoff – Always mount and adjust your iPad before engine start.

  3. Secure with a Tether – Especially for suction-mounted iPads, tether the device in case of failure.

  4. Use Flight Mode – Disable cellular and notifications to preserve battery and avoid distractions.

  5. Have a Backup – Always carry a paper chart or handheld GPS in case your iPad dies.


✈️ Final Thoughts: Which Mount Should You Pick?

Choosing the best iPad mount depends on your aircraft, your training style, and your budget.

  • Tight budget? Go with the ASA Kneeboard.

  • Want simplicity and security? Try the RAM X-Grip Suction Mount.

  • Flying long-term? The PIVOT Kit is your forever solution.

  • Small cockpit? You’ll love the Flight Outfitters Slim Kneeboard.

  • 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!

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