By Leslie Caubble, CFI/IGI
A kneeboard is an essential tool for pilots of all experience levels. You will find student pilots, instructors, recreational pilots, and airline pilots use a kneeboard. The kneeboard is exactly what it sounds like: a clipboard or similar accessory that is attached to the pilot’s thigh near the knee with an elastic strap or buckle. Clipped to the kneeboard is essential information and resources available to the pilot at their fingertips.
Even the most basic kneeboard can be a huge help to a pilot for writing down clearances, ATIS information, or heading/altitude instructions. I’m sure there are other pilots like me who may hear a heading instruction given by ATC, then get distracted by a traffic alert, passengers, or other flying tasks only to forget the instructed heading. It’s nice to have something in front of you to jot down even the simplest information.
A Kneeboard: The Foundation of Resource Management
Pilots use kneeboards differently depending on the type of flying they’re doing, if they are flying VFR or IFR, single pilot or as a crew. There are many different styles, sizes, and functions to consider when purchasing a kneeboard. For the beginning student pilot, a simple, mini clipboard is sufficient. For the commercial pilot, or someone who flies under IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) regularly, a kneeboard which holds an iPad may be a better choice.
As you gain more flying experience, you’ll learn what resources work best for your situation and what items you like to have nearby. Things that you want available for those “what-if” situations, such as spare battery packs, could be kept in your flight bag. Things that you consistently need during a flight might be better kept close at hand, either in a side pocket or on your kneeboard for quick access. Managing resources and keeping the flight deck organized promotes safe and stress-free flying.
What Does a Kneeboard Hold?
Here are some of the typical items that a pilot keeps on their kneeboard:
- iPad or tablet
- Scratchpad or paper
- Sectional chart
- Pen/pencil
- Checklist
- Airport/taxiway diagram
- Preflight or comms planning sheets
Kneeboard Features to Consider
Kneeboards come in different sizes and styles. They can also differ in their functionality. What type is right for you, and what features should your kneeboard include? I have found that when you’re beginning flight training, it’s best to start with something basic. You can also ask your flight instructor what they use and model after them. Either way, make modifications along the way for what works best for you.
Here are some different features often found on pilot kneeboards:
Clipboard/Notepad: The clipboard is the foundation of the kneeboard! minimum, you need something to hold your loose papers and chart. Some inexperienced pilots think setting things in their lap or under the leg will suffice, but it just takes one flight in rough air to send papers flying to the floor. Some kneeboards will have a separate area for a notepad, but the option remains to add your own notepad clipped in place.
iPad or tablet holder: Most pilots now take advantage of an Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) on a tablet or mobile phone. There are many kneeboards available which have special holders or compartments for your devices. EFBs make flight deck management simple by keeping aeronautical charts, scratch pads, weather information, and approach plates housed in a single app such as ForeFlight or Garmin Pilot.
VFR or IFR kneeboard: Some kneeboard manufacturers, such as ASA, make simple yet sturdy kneeboards which include a metal clipboard. On the clipboard are permanent references to altitudes, light gun signals, emergency procedures, flight plan elements, etc. which can act as a handy “cheat sheet” in flight. Pilots can purchase these with either VFR or IFR information on them.
Ring binder: The original purpose of having a ring binder on a kneeboard was to hold printed approach plates. Now those printed materials have been replaced by electronic flight bags. However, a ring binder is a nice feature to consider. I’ve seen very nice kneeboards with checklists, maneuver guides, and local procedure sheets in sheet protectors attached to the binder. This is a great option, especially for instructors, who use multiple resources in flight.
Pockets: Most kneeboards will have at least one pocket attached, many of them mesh, to hold charging cords, battery packs, pens, and credentials.
Other features you may find on kneeboards are pen/pencil holders, breathable padding, screen protectors for tablets, and deluxe enclosures turning your kneeboard into a mini flight bad.
Examples of Pilot Kneeboards
- Basic Clipboard Style
The simplest, yet very functional, kneeboard would be a clipboard from your local office supply store. These are available in a half-size about 6” x 9”. For a more deluxe option, consider a metal VFR or IFR clipboard with an elastic leg strap made by ASA.
Appx cost: $5-25
- Bi-fold or Tri-fold Style
This is the most common type of kneeboard you’ll find with many varieties to choose from. These kneeboards have two or three panels, with each panel serving a different function or feature. Most will have one panel with the traditional metal VFR/IFR clipboard. The additional panel(s) may contain pockets and room for charts, papers, small booklets, and a pen/pencil holder.
Appx cost: $30-75
- iPad Kneeboards
With so many pilots using tablets exclusively for their electronic flight bags, many are turning to kneeboards that simply hold an iPad in place. Some of these kneeboards are just a knee strap with a tablet holder attached. Others come in more deluxe options with multiple panels like a bi-fold or tri-fold style. iPads are held in place by clips or retention straps. Another useful feature to look for is a small built-in kickstand to prop up your tablet, reducing glare.
Appx cost: $50-100+
Your kneeboard is a personal choice, just like the wallet or purse style you choose to carry. If you own a personal aircraft, you can customize the interior with pockets or compartments to hold your items. Many of us, however, jump in and out of rental and commercial aircraft, so having a kneeboard system that’s mobile and compact to hold all the essentials is important. Find what works for you, and continuously improve your system and resource management.
What’s your preferred kneeboard? Let us know in the comments!
By Leslie Caubble, CFI/IGI
Northstar Aviation References brings you the Pre-Tabbed ASA FAR/AIM, DIY tabs for your FAR/AIM and other pilot resources so that you can more easily study the regulations that form the foundation of your flying career or hobby. Have any questions? Check out our FAQs page or contact us. Check out other blog posts here.