FAA Approves iPads in the cockpit - American Airlines to Start

The FAA has just approved iPads for use in airline cockpits in all phases of flight. American Airlines has been testing iPads, with FAA approval, since the summer. So now a 1.5 lb iPad can replace about 35 lbs worth of paper charts, saving an estimated $1.2 million of fuel each year. And the backs of countless pilots.

Starting Friday American Airlines will begin rolling out iPads to pilots in B-777 aircraft. Both iPad 1 and iPad 2 have been approved. Other airlines are also evaluating tablet use in the cockpit and I'm sure they won't be far behind.

I've been using my iPad 2 in my own cockpit for months now in my Grumman Tiger and would never go back to paper charts. In the event of a failure (which has never happened other than the odd crash requiring a quick restart) I have charts on my iPhone as well.

Thanks, FAA - welcome to the future!