Apple's iPad has been a big hit with pilots, but the recent upgrade to the latest operating system could create problems for some users.
As is often the case with an OS upgrade, there are some issues with the software running on the devices. Several companies with iPad aviation apps have reported potential problems.
The biggest potential problem appears to be iOS 5's memory management. According to software maker ForeFlight, customers using their iPad apps may see data deleted from the device. If the customer's iPad is nearly full and more data is loaded, iOS 5 may empty a cache directory where ForeFlight data is stored, the company says. There is a limited amount of storage available within document directories that cannot be deleted, ForeFlight says. Several large files, including navigation charts, are stored in cache directories.
ForeFlight advises pilots to maintain sufficient empty space on their iPad so the memory management "cleaning" within iOS 5 is not activated. It also suggests checking the device before flight to ensure the necessary charts are present.
Chart maker Jeppesen says it does not store application data in a location where it will be deleted by those using iOS 5. But it says several smaller issues including charts not displaying properly and problems entering text within some menus.
WingX is another aviation software company reporting issues with the new operating system. It recommends users skip the upgrade for now to avoid the possibility of data being deleted.
All of the companies say they are working to resolve the issues and have contacted Apple about the problems. The problems only affect users who upgrade to the new iOS 5.
The iPad is growing increasingly popular with both private and commercial pilots. Airlines including Alaska and United are issuing pilots iPads in an effort to reduce the need for dozens of pounds of charts and manuals and increasing a pilot's access to flight information.
Photo: Jason Paur/Wired.com“
