Best Aviation Kneeboards for Private Pilots: A Review

I’ve come to appreciate the value of a good kneeboard after using boards that did nothing but slip around. What a pain (and distraction) when trying to concentrate on flying! The best aviation kneeboards are adaptable for different types of flights.

Kneeboard types

• Simple kneeboards – The simplest types of kneeboards function as clipboards that you can attach to your knee
• Kneeboards with pockets – Kneeboards that contain pockets and compartments allow easy storage for items like pens, snacks, and glasses
• Tablet kneeboards – These kneeboards are often adjustable and can accommodate tablets such as iPads
• IFR kneeboards – An IFR kneeboard may have binder rings to accommodate approach plates when flying under instrument flight rules (IFR)
• Reversible kneeboards – A reversible kneeboard makes usage easier for left-handed users

After much trial and error, my top kneeboard picks include:

• one of the simplest kneeboards available, FlyBoys Classic Kneeboard
• a kneeboard with very accessible pockets and compartments, R SPIDER WIRELESS Pilot Kneeboard with Aluminum Clipboard
• a clipboard kneeboard that fits most tablets, R SPIDER WIRELESS Pilot Kneeboard for iPad
• a kneeboard ideally suited for IFR flying, the ASA IFR Tri-Fold Kneeboard
• a reversible kneeboard perfect for left-handed pilots, the FlyBoys Reversible Kneeboard

FlyBoys Classic Kneeboard

The FlyBoys Classic Kneeboard is a must-have for pilots who want a simple design that offers so much more. I was particularly impressed with the durability and comfort when the kneepad was on my knee.

Another advantage that this kneepad offers is a strong leg strap. The durable construction extends to the secure clipboard with a spring-action clip.

I also liked the detachable eyelet strip that makes it much easier to attach cards, charts, checklists, in-flight guides, and notes. All these items were readily accessible when I needed them.

This kneeboard also provides tablet support through an adapter. Most tablets will fit the kneeboard very easily.

R SPIDER WIRELESS Pilot Kneeboard with Aluminum Clipboarda

One of the things I initially appreciated the most about the R SPIDER WIRELESS Pilot Kneeboard was its design based on the unique needs of pilots. Kneeboards that are not aviation-specific often fall short of these needs, making this design all the more critical.

This kneeboard features side pockets in ideal locations to reach without fumbling. Pen slots and a smartphone pocket made everything much easier for me.

Everything that I need to attach clips on and later detaches easily. When done with this kneeboard, it is easy for me to store.

The aluminum clipboard can also function as a standalone kneeboard. Access to a separate clipboard is one of the most helpful features for unforeseen circumstances when your main kneeboard is unavailable.

In addition to holding most Android smartphones, the smartphone pocket can accommodate iPad Minis. Because most newer iPad Minis support the same apps as their larger counterparts, pilots who prefer iOS devices will see the maximum benefit.

R SPIDER WIRELESS Pilot Kneeboard for iPad

The R SPIDER WIRELESS Pilot Kneeboard for iPad is the best kneeboard that I’ve found for pilots who use tablets. In addition to current iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro models, the kneeboard also fits other tablets from 9 to 11 in.

A sturdy metal clip makes it easier to hold documents, including charts necessary for navigation. I liked how I could keep everything within reach, thanks to the pen holder and large pocket that made it easy to store pens, earbuds, and other small items.

I appreciated the Velcro-backed eyelet strip and the iron loops that made it easier to hold everything together. The leg straps also provided a more secure fit, so I knew everything would stay in place during the flight.

IFR Tri-Fold Kneeboard

When flying under IFR, the ASA IFR Tri-Fold Kneeboard is an ideal way to hold your charts. Although the design is relatively simple, it is more than adequate for these needs.

The tri-fold design made accessing my flight plan and chart easier at a glance. Having a large compartment to hold a flight computer is also one of the most valuable features I found with this kneeboard.

Although I would have preferred a leg strap that buckled instead of used Velcro, the kneeboard fit very well. This model lived up to the claims of being suitable for different leg sizes.

FlyBoys Reversible Kneeboard

For anyone who requires a reversible kneeboard, I can’t recommend the FlyBoys Reversible Kneeboard highly enough. The features are suitable for commercial pilots and private pilots alike.

The most significant selling point for me is the ambidextrous design. The pouches and pen pockets can fit on either side, removing the awkwardness left-handed pilots might face.

A detachable eyelet strip keeps guides and checklists as secure as possible. The leg strap is also secure, keeping the included clipboard in place to secure approach plates and pilot notes.

The nylon construction makes it easy for this kneeboard to withstand some of the most challenging demands. I also appreciate the plastic clipboard that provided one of the smoother writing experiences I’ve had with one of these devices.

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