Gloucester, U.K. March 7, 2023 – Aviation publisher Padpilot has announced the launch of a subscription-based content platform that allows its pilot training manuals to be accessed on any device, Apple or android, via an app or online browser.
The new ‘eReader’ is available for Padpilot’s best-selling ATPL-A and PPL-A theory books and gives student pilots access to the same content – including the much-loved interactivity – as their existing Apple Books, plus additional new features such as built-in reading time recording and the ability to write on pages with a stylus, without the need for a particular device.
The ATPL-H series for helicopter pilot training will be available via the Padpilot eReader in the summer.
Padpilot has been synonymous with Apple devices since launching the first electronic textbooks for iPad in 2011. Since then, downloads of its interactive theory Apple Books (iBooks) have reached 300,000 and are used by 140 pilot training organisations worldwide.
“We previously published only on Apple as it was more secure, and the operating system was consistent across all device types. This kept the user experience consistent and allowed us to be fast and efficient with book updates when regulations, technology or charts changed,” explained CEO, Graham Cownie.
“For years we’ve been asked for an android version, but we needed to find a way to give users the same high-quality, interactive experience while studying. And then when Apple withdrew its support for the iBook Author platform, we knew it was time to create our own delivery system.”
Apple may have discontinued their ‘iBook Author’ service, but have stated there are no plans to discontinue the Books themselves. Padpilot’s existing theory books (for PPL-A, CBIR, ATPL-A and ATPL_H) are not being discontinued and Padpilot will continue to update and sell their Apple Book products for as long as the iBook platform exists. However, the new eReader is another home for the same content and allows Padpilot to manage its own delivery platform.
Resources for training providers
As well as its interactive textbooks for the theoretical knowledge phase, Padpilot offers pilot training providers a range of ground school resources including instructor presentations, learning management systems, compliance, technical and customer support. Because the new eReader book content exactly mirrors the existing iBooks, training providers can seamlessly switch from iBooks to the eReader without having to change lesson plans or classroom presentations.
8 of Padpilot’s 140 partners have already adopted the new platform and initial feedback from 180 users is excellent with around 60% of eReader users studying for their ground school exams via the browser option. Student pilots say they appreciate being able to use existing devices without having to purchase a new iPad for ground school.
“This has been an amazing project to manage, and we’re thrilled to launch the new multi-device platform. Our students can now view our content on any device!” Commented Padpilot Operations Manager, Katharine Westwood.
eReader Key features
- ✅ Complete sets for PPL-A and ATPL-A
- ✅ Download the free eReader app
- ✅ Order book subscriptions from http://bit.ly/3ykZGCF
- ✅ Same price as equivalent iBooks
- ✅ Includes a 3 year subscription
- ✅ Access for 3 devices
- ✅ Renewals available
- ✅ Same content as iBook editions
- ✅ ATOs licences available
ATPL-A book features. The content in the new eReader books is exactly the same as the existing Apple Books, plus a couple of useful new features:
- Reading Time is recorded automatically – NEW
- Book pages can be annotated or drawn on with a stylus – NEW
- Study Aid functions (highlight, search, notes, revision cards)
- Learning Objective summary at the end of each chapter
- Interactive end of chapter quizzes
- Threat and Error Management (TEM) flags show common threats/errors
- 3D models, animations and video explanations
- Extra Insights explain how the theory applies to the aviation world
- Case Studies throughout
- Suitable for modular and integrated student pilots
- No previous theory knowledge required
The Complete Padpilot PPL-A set includes:
- Maths and Physics for Pilots
- Air Law
- Aircraft General Knowledge
- Flight Performance and Planning
- Human Performance
- Meteorology
- Navigation and Radio Aids
- Operational Procedures
- Principles of Flight
- Communications
The Complete Padpilot ATPL-A set includes:
- Maths and Physics for Pilots
- Air Law
- Aircraft General Knowledge: Electrics
- Aircraft General Knowledge: Engines
- Aircraft General Knowledge: Airframes and Systems
- Basic Instrumentation
- Advanced Instrumentation
- Mass and Balance
- Flight Planning and Monitoring
- Human Performance and Limitations
- Meteorology
- General Navigation
- Radio Navigation
- Operational Procedures
- Principles of Flight
- Communications (IFR and VFR)
- Aeroplane Performance
How to get started
1. Download the free Padpilot eReader app via the App Store or Google Play.
2. Order a book subscription from www.padpilot.com or here: http://bit.ly/3ykZGCF
3. Pilot training providers can request a demo of ground school resources here: https://padpilot.com/contact-us/
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