ForeFlight tailors new features to business aircraft

ForeFlight’s Performance flight planning software provides fast and accurate performance and route calculations for high-performance piston, turboprop, and jet aircraft.

“Many of the new capabilities are made possible by our large library of aircraft performance data and our state-of-the-art AviationCloud flight planning engine,” said Tyson Weihs, ForeFlight cofounder and CEO. “Pilots will be amazed with how fast they can create, brief, and file complex flight plans from an iPhone, iPad, or browser. Individual and business customers are going to have more accurate flight planning calculations, save time, and save a lot of money when planning and flying with the new ForeFlight performance planning features.”

ForeFlight created a sophisticated global flight planning and route optimization network as well as an extensive and detailed library of aircraft performance profiles. The company promises accurate performance planning for a wide range of aircraft flying at different weights, altitudes, and speeds.

Customers can create aircraft profiles in “less than a minute,” customize them, and automatically load them into their accounts. Optimum routes and altitudes are continuously updated based on forecast winds and temperatures. Pilots can make last-minute fuel and passenger load adjustments and contingency plans with “a few taps” on their electronic devices.

The new software also works with JetFuelX, a web-based service that helps find and compare discount jet fuel, to determine where clients can get the best rates.

ForeFlight Performance Plus subscriptions sell for $300 a year for individuals, and multi-user Business Performance subscriptions start at $300 per license. Detailed pricing information is available online.

Houston-based ForeFlight helped create and popularize the iOS-based electronic flight bags that have become a staple among general aviation pilots. The company’s once-revolutionary idea of iPads in the cockpit has made deep inroads into airline, military, and corporate flying and flight planning, and the company is making big investments to win over those larger and potentially more lucrative markets, too.