Rapidly evolving technology continues to shape the way pilots train, stay current, and manage their flight records. Although there’s been a significant increase in pilot logbook apps over the last few years, including our own addition, which was launched in 2023—Aileron PilotLog, we’ve seen no major decrease in the demand for traditional logbooks.

Amidst the digital advancements, there's a crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked: the legal requirement for pilots to maintain accurate and up-to-date flight logs.

Aviation regulators can request your original Logbook at any time. That’s why, for pilots, the ability to print your digital hours is paramount.

Recording your flight time digitally

While electronic logging offers numerous benefits, including accessibility and real-time updates, it's essential to recognise the potential risks for pilots relying solely on digital platforms. 

Imagine the frustration of meticulously logging countless flight hours, only to have all that data disappear due to a technical glitch or software failure. For pilots who rely on accurate and comprehensive records for regulatory compliance, career progression, and personal reflection, the prospect of data loss can be devastating.

Software support or disappearing apps

While most flight log apps boast reliable software, there's always the looming risk of discontinued support. Imagine your trusted app failing to keep up with the latest updates or, worse, the company behind it going bust. 

Your flight log, once safely stored in the cloud, could vanish in an instant. That's where a printed paper version steps in, ensuring your data remains intact despite technological hiccups.

Data Loss

Hard drive crashes are another peril faced by pilots relying on digital flight logging. For those using apps requiring local storage or spreadsheets, the risk of losing vital flight records looms large. Printing your logbook serves as a vital insurance policy, safeguarding against the unforeseen loss of digital data.

Pilot Job Interviews

In the unpredictable world of aviation, pilot interviews can happen anytime. Whether it's planned or a result of unexpected circumstances like airline closures or sudden recruitment drives, having a tangible, professional logbook can make all the difference. Pilots who've showcased their Aileron Personalised Pilot Logbook during interviews rave about its sleek leather finish, leaving a lasting impression that a few sheets of A4 paper simply can't match.

License Validations

As pilots approach license renewals, the scramble to ensure a valid and up-to-date logbook is all too familiar. Regulatory authorities expect a meticulously detailed logbook detailing flight hours, and failing to produce one can lead to last-minute chaos. By printing your hours in advance, you avoid the stress and potential errors of rushed validations.

In essence, while digital flight logging offers convenience, printing your logbook ensures resilience against potential risks, providing peace of mind in an ever-evolving aviation landscape.

Digital logging apps, a few things to consider

Aside from the basics (cost, user experience, reputation, privacy & security), When choosing a pilot logbook app, consider the following:

• Instant data export
• Customer service/support
• Backup options
• Data archiving 

We started designing Aileron PilotLog in 2020 and were acutely aware of the challenges pilots faced regarding data loss and reliability in flight logging apps. Recognising the profound impact that data loss can have on pilots' careers and peace of mind, we made it our mission to create a solution that addressed these issues head-on.

 

Why is Aileron PilotLog different?

What sets Aileron apart is its unique ability to bridge the noticeable gap between digital innovation and traditional practices by offering a printing and binding service for digital flight logs via our pilot logbook app or website.

We are proudly the only app on the market that prints and binds directly into a personalised leather logbook.

While many flight log apps focus solely on digital logging, we recognise the importance of providing pilots with options that cater to their diverse needs and preferences. By offering the capability to print and bind digital flight hours into physical logbooks, Aileron ensures that pilots have a reliable backup solution at their disposal.

Integrating printing and binding capabilities into the Pilot Logbook App was driven by Aileron's commitment to empowering pilots and enhancing their flight logging experience.

Moreover, Aileron's printing and binding service adds a touch of professionalism and authenticity to pilots' logbooks, making them suitable for a wide range of purposes, including regulatory compliance, job interviews, and personal records. The sleek leather finish and meticulous attention to detail further elevate the logbooks, ensuring that pilots can present themselves confidently in any professional setting.