Best Pilot Logbooks for Private Pilots: A Comparison

Anyone in aviation knows the importance that pilot logbooks play. Logbooks, which we all became acquainted with during flight school, help meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements and make it easy to keep track of flights.

Selecting a logbook for private pilot use doesn’t have to be complicated, even with all the choices available. I’ve taken a closer look at some of the logs that private pilots prefer and helped to highlight some of the best pilot logbooks.

Types of lookbooks available

• General logbook – The most common type of logbook that suits the needs of most private pilots
• Engine logbook – A separate type of logbook designed for information on the plane’s engine or engines
• Propeller logbook – The type of logbook most suitable for planes with propellers
• Digital logbook – A logbook in digital format, with information that must be transferred to a paper logbook

The picks I’ve decided to include are:

• the best overall paper logbook, ASA The Standard Pilot Log
• the best paper logbook with a vegan cover, the Cadderki Professional Vegan Leather Pilot Logbook
• a logbook designed to keep track of maintenance, the Graphyco Publishing Aircraft Engine Logbook
• a simple log for propeller aircraft pilots, the ASA Standard Propeller Log

These selections offer versatility, making them ideal for pilots with any experience level or flight time schedule.

ASA The Standard Pilot Log

If you’re in the market for a logbook that has stood the test of time as I was, ASA The Standard Pilot Log is what you need. I’ve always heard positive things from pilots using this logbook and was pleased to hear it was still on the market.

One of the features I liked the most about this logbook was the inclusion of two columns that came without headings. If there is a need to personalize any of the entries, these two columns are perfect for that purpose.

I enjoyed the overall quality of this logbook, including the sturdy cover. There was room for around 300 entries, with plenty of writing space.

This logbook conformed to FAA standards without any problems. Experienced or student pilots could both benefit from one of these books.

Cadderki Professional Vegan Leather Pilot Logbook

One of the things I liked the most about this logbook is its cruelty-free design. Although made with a leather substitute, the design looks as close to the real thing as possible.

This logbook holds up to 150 sheets of paper, ensuring maximum use for as long as possible. Three screws make it easier to keep the paper firmly in place.

I enjoyed the presence of a large enough compartment to hold a 13 in MacBook or iPad. The smaller sleeve holds money, tickets, and pens easily.

One of the features I enjoyed the most was being able to have the logbook personalized. I’d willingly buy it as a gift for other pilots.

Graphyco Publishing Aircraft Engine Logbook

I know how important keeping track of engine maintenance is, as well as the role that the right logbook plays. I’m very pleased with how well the Graphyco Publishing Aircraft Engine Logbook allows me to stay on top of things with the engine and general maintenance.

The amount of information that you can record regarding your plane’s maintenance is extensive. The information you can record includes but is not limited to engine manufacture date, serial number, and oil grade.

There are 110 pages, which would allow for maximum usage for most pilot needs. I found the paper quality satisfactory, allowing for much neater entries.

I liked the matte green cover, which helped make the logbook more durable. Despite the durability, the cover is also soft to the touch, providing a more high-quality feel.

ASA Standard Propeller Log

In my search for a logbook suitable for propeller aircraft, I found the ASA Standard Propeller Log. Aircraft using propellers have unique maintenance needs, and I find it helpful to use a log that makes recording maintenance easier.

Repair and alteration records are some of the most critical pieces of information that pilots can add. Pilots can also record inspections for hubs and blades, factory bulletins, and airworthiness directives.

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