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How to set up aircraft equipment codes in aviation apps to file IFR flight plans

May 16, 2025/by Bret Koebbe

Filing a VFR or IFR flight plan today is a breeze when using an aviation app like ForeFlight or Garmin Pilot, since the File function is integrated right into both apps’ standard flight planning features. The one area related to this, which can be slightly confusing though, is entering all the correct aircraft equipment codes when you go to file.

Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course: New AI Tools & 2025 Course Updates

May 16, 2025/by Eric Radtke

Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course available in the Pilot Training app has helped tens of thousands of pilots earn their rating. The platform has grown considerably since it first launched and is known for its fast pace of innovation, bringing new content, new training tools, and technological enhancements every year.

How to set up aircraft equipment codes in aviation apps to file IFR flight plans

May 16, 2025/by Bret Koebbe

Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course: New AI Tools & 2025 Course Updates

May 16, 2025/by Eric Radtke

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How to set up aircraft equipment codes in aviation apps to file IFR flight plans

May 16, 2025/by Bret Koebbe

You'll be required to file all flight plans using the ICAO format later this year.

All VFR and IFR flight plans must be filed using the ICAO form.

The international (ICAO) flight plan form, which is required to be used for all VFR and IFR flight plans filed in the U.S., requests detailed information about your airplane’s navigation, communication, surveillance (transponder) and survival equipment.

While this may seem intimidating at first, you’ll only need to do it once, thanks to the ability to set up aircraft profiles in each app. After entering all the data once, the profile will automatically be saved, streamlining data entry for future flight plans. Here, we will look at the information needed and some sample airplane configurations to help make this initial setup easier.

Setting up your airplane profile

We will focus on ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot for this ICAO flight plan discussion. While both apps ultimately require the same set of information, some of the equipment requirements are grouped together differently in each program, which can lead to confusion. For that reason, we will help you identify your equipment first, making it easier to enter your specific application.

In ForeFlight, go to the More tab, select Aircraft from the options on the left, and here you can either add a new aircraft or modify an existing one. You’ll see fields to enter the ICAO equipment details towards the bottom of the screen after selecting one of the N#s from the list.

In Garmin Pilot, head to the main Settings section and choose Aircraft from the options on the left. Just like with ForeFlight, you can either add a new aircraft or modify one of your existing profiles.

The exact layout of each app’s aircraft profile data-entry screen varies a bit, but in the end, they’re all looking for the same information to ensure you meet the ICAO requirements:

Basic Airplane Data–The first step is to enter the standard data, like N#, aircraft type, color and the home airport. Something new you’ll see is Wake Turbulence Category, and you’ll enter Light (L) here when under 15,500 lbs.
Communication Radios–Most GA airplanes are equipped with VHF radios, so this is the only selection necessary here. If your radio has 8.33 kHz spacing and allows you to select the 3rd decimal place when tuning in a frequency (e.g. 122.975 vs. 122.97), select that option as well.
Navigation and Approach Aids–Here you’ll specify which type of navigation radios are on board. The most common selections are ADF, GPS (listed sometimes as GNSS), DME, ILS, VOR and LPV (if you have an approach-approved WAAS GPS). You can also use the “S” code if you have the standard configuration of VOR, VHF radio and ILS receiver. If you have a GPS receiver that meets a minimum level of performance-based navigation (see next bullet point on PBN), you’ll also use the “R” code here to indicate that capability. You probably don’t have any of the other equipment options listed in this group like ACARS/SATCOM/CPDLC (unless you own an Airbus or a Boeing jet), so skip those options and continue on.
Performance-Based Navigation (PBN)–This grouping is used to identify the RNAV & RNP capabilities of your GPS receiver if installed. This is one of the more confusing aspects of the form, but fortunately, Garmin publishes a “cheat sheet” to help you out if you have a Garmin GPS or glass cockpit system in your panel: Garmin ICAO Flight Plan Equipment Codes. In this file, you’ll see 3 tabs across the bottom — choose the first one, labeled ICAO Flight Plans & Eligibility. This will list out exactly what codes to select in the PBN category for your particular setup.
Surveillance–The ADS-B transponder requirement has expanded the number of transponder options and configurations available. There are 2 parts to the ICAO equipment requirement: first, identify the transponder type, and second specify the ADS-B capabilities. If you have a Garmin transponder installed, refer back to their Excel spreadsheet and go to the 3rd tab, labeled ICAO Surveillance Equipment for help. If you’re not ADS-B out equipped, you’ll only enter one code–most likely code “C” for a Mode C transponder or code “S” for a Mode S transponder.
Survival Equipment–The last step is to add is any survival equipment on board, including life jackets, emergency radios and dinghies.

ICAO Flight Plan Tips

It doesn’t take long to be overwhelmed by all the information required. Take your time and be thorough with your airplane’s assessment. Garmin Pilot includes helpful tips for each field while filling out the data and a comprehensive filing resource here. ForeFlight offers an ICAO Filing Manual, How-to blog and video to guide you along the way.

Check with your avionics manufacturer for help on specific equipment codes to select.The best advice is if you’re unsure of whether or not you have a piece of navigation equipment on the list, leave it unchecked, as this is what ATC will look at when clearing you for advanced routes and procedures. It’s not the end of the world if you mess this up–it’s more important for high-altitude RVSM aircraft, international flights and when flying to busy airports where RNAV arrivals and approaches are used. If you’re still unsure, check with your avionics manufacturer, as they will be able to help you identify the specific codes for your GPS and transponder configuration.We came across one point of confusion to be aware of: the code B1 is used in two different areas and means 2 completely different things. In the surveillance section, it is used to categorize an ADS-B transponder with dedicated 1090 MHz ADS-B “out” capability. You’ll also see B1 in the PBN section, which is used to identify RNAV 5 capability.

Some of the forms will also ask for your Mode S transponder’s unique Hex Code, which is required if you’re equipped with an ADS-B out transponder. You can look up your code using your airplane’s N# on the FAA registry site.

Finally, we’ll point out that you only should identify certified, panel-mount ADS-B in/out equipment in the Surveillance section, and not portables. While there are equipment codes for ADS-B in capabilities, portable receivers like Sentry and Garmin GDL-50 should not be included here.

Sample aircraft:

Putting this all together, here are some example configurations and respective equipment codes:

Cessna 172 Dual Nav/Com, Bendix/King Mode S transponder, SkyBeacon ADS-B Out

ICAO Equipment: “S” (standard VOR, VHF, ILS)

ICAO Surveillance: “S” (Mode S Transponder), “U1” (ADS-B, UAT/978 Out)

ICAO PBN: leave this blank, since you’re not RNAV/GPS equipped

Cirrus SR22 Dual Garmin GTN650 Nav/Comm/GPS, Garmin GTX345 Transponder

ICAO Equipment: “S” (standard VOR, VHF, ILS), “Y” (VHF 8.33 kHz spacing), “G” (GNSS), “B” (LPV), “R” (PBN approved)

ICAO Surveillance: “E” (Mode S, ID, Altitude, Extended Squitter), “B2” (ADS-B 1090 MHz Extended Squitter, in and out)

ICAO PBN: A1, B2, C2, D2, L1, O2, S1, S2 (RNAV 10/5/2/1, RNP 4/1/Appch)

Bonanza A36 Garmin G500 TXi, Garmin GTN750 Nav/Comm/GPS, Apprareo Stratus ESG transponder

ICAO Equipment: “S” (standard VOR, VHF, ILS), “Y” (VHF 8.33 kHz spacing), “G” (GNSS), “B” (LPV), “R” (PBN approved)

ICAO Surveillance: ICAO Surveillance: “L” (Mode S Transponder, Enhanced Surveillance, Extended Squitter), “B1” (ADS-B with dedicated 1090 MHz ADS-B “out” capability)

ICAO PBN: A1, B2, C2, D2, L1, O2, S1, S2 (RNAV 10/5/2/1, RNP 4/1/Appch)

Filing an ICAO Flight Plan

So here’s the good news–all the hard work is now behind you. Once your aircraft profile is set up in the app, filing the actual ICAO flight plan before a flight requires just a few taps. In ForeFlight, go to the Flights tab, enter your flight plan data, tap the File button at the bottom of the screen, and verify that ICAO is listed as the flight plan type at the top. You’ll want to update the emergency equipment as required, and tap file.

The flight planning process from Garmin is accomplished in the Trip Planning section of the app, and you’ll use the File button at the top right of the screen after all the flight details are entered.

More Information

Here are few videos from ForeFlight and Garmin with additional instructions on filing with the ICAO flight plan form:

Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course: New AI Tools & 2025 Course Updates

May 16, 2025/by Eric Radtke

Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course available in the Pilot Training app has helped tens of thousands of pilots earn their rating. The platform has grown considerably since it first launched and is known for its fast pace of innovation, bringing new content, new training tools, and technological enhancements every year.

Pilot Training offers pilots the ultimate flexibility in training, providing access to all of Sporty’s aviation courses on dedicated iPhone and iPad apps, Mac app, an Android app, online and on the TV, using the included apps for AppleTV, FireTV, AndroidTV, Roku and Chromecast.

The latest update delivers major learning content updates for Sporty’s 2025 Instrument Rating Course.

New and Revolutionary Training Tools

AI: Aviation Intelligence℠

Sporty’s new AI (Aviation Intelligence) features make the learning experience fun and more productive. Start a session with ChatDPE℠, our virtual pilot examiner, for interactive study sessions that simulate the experience of the oral exam portion of a Instrument Rating practical test. You’ll be asked ten questions across all sections of the ACS, and your answers will be instantly critiqued for accuracy. If your answer is wrong or incomplete, you’ll learn more about the topic and be provided with feedback on how to better answer the question.

Pair this with our other new AI tool: ChatFAR℠. The Federal Aviation Regulations are complex by design, making them challenging for pilots to navigate, but ChatFAR removes those barriers with a simple chat interface. Simply enter any question related to private pilot operations or flight training, and our AI legal expert will explain the applicable regulations in plain English.

New Aviation Content

At the heart of Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course is its award-winning 4K video, and the 2025 edition includes major enhancements. A new section on terminal area arrival (TAA) approaches helps instrument pilots understand the nuances of these procedures, allowing pilots to transition from the IFR enroute segment to the approach environment with little interaction required between the pilot and air traffic control. Additionally, Sporty’s instrument learning content has been reorganized to make for a more efficient learning experience.

approach

Interactive Instrument Scenarios

Sporty’s interactive scenarios go beyond video lessons, providing immediate feedback on performance and allowing users to identify areas for improvement. By experiencing real-world challenges through practical exercises, pilots can deepen their understanding in key areas. Interactive scenarios for 2025 include: instrument failures, unusual attitude recovery, METAR and TAF analysis, enroute and approach chart symbology, ILS and back course procedures, holding pattern entry procedures, and approach lighting systems.

New Interactive Pilot Scenarios

Interactive scenarios go beyond video lessons, providing immediate feedback on your performance and allowing you to identify areas for improvement. By incorporating real-world challenges and practical exercises, you can deepen your understanding and sharpen your skills in key areas. New interactive scenarios for 2025 include: METAR interpretation, TAF analysis, weight and balance scenarios, takeoff distance calculations, and landing distance examples.

Extensive Test Prep Updates

The FAA continually updates the Instrument Knowledge Test with new questions and topics. Accordingly, Sporty’s has added more than 50 new questions that reflect the latest changes for 2025. Test prep updates are designed to ensure instrument pilots are proficient and fully prepared for the actual test, with no wasted effort studying outdated questions.

Plus, the unique SmartNotes feature is now smarter for 2025. This always-on tool helps you organize your key takeaways and is easily accessible no matter where you are in the course. The latest update automatically adds a link to the current test prep question you’re viewing when adding a note, allowing you to quickly jump back to it for review later from your SmartNotes. This also works for video, allowing you to jot down key points from a video lesson with an automatically generated link to return to that lesson later.

Pilot-Friendly Features That Haven’t Changed

Free Lifetime Updates

The best part about all these new features is that they’re included free with your one-time purchase of Sporty’s course. As always, there are no subscription or upgrade fees. Just log into your course and start learning—you’ll see new content automatically.

Instant Written Test Endorsement

Sporty’s offers complete preparation for the FAA Knowledge Test. Once you’ve passed two practice tests in the course, you’ll get the flight instructor sign-off that can be presented to the testing center. You can even log this endorsement in your ForeFlight digital logbook.

Guaranteed to pass all three tests

Sporty’s Courses are more than just written test prep. You’ll be prepared for the knowledge, oral, and flight tests. In fact, if you don’t pass all three, you’re eligible for a refund.

Available on all your devices

Sporty’s courses are available almost anywhere. Use the dedicated mobile apps for iPad, iPhone, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV, which allow you to download videos for offline viewing. Progress automatically syncs between all formats so you can start a study session on your phone and finish on your laptop without missing a beat.

How to get the courses

You can purchase access to any of the 30 aviation training courses at Sportys.com, including the Instrument Rating Course. You’ll gain instant access to all the course platforms for one price. If you’ve already purchased one of these courses (both courses include lifetime updates), you just need to download the mobile app and sign in with your username/password or log in to Sporty’s Online Course Portal.

Sporty’s also offers access to ALL its courses through the Pilot Training+ Membership program. After purchasing a monthly or annual subscription, you’ll have unlimited access to all the aviation courses Sporty’s offers, in addition to other benefits like free shipping and access to flight training scholarships.

iPhone/iPad – download the free app here

Android – download the free app here

Apple Computer – download the free app here

AppleTV – go to the App Store on AppleTV (4th Gen or newer) and search for Pilot Training

FireTV – search for Sporty’s Pilot Training to download the app (preview the app here)

AndroidTV – search for Sporty’s Pilot Training to download the app (preview the app here)

RokuTV App – search for the Sporty’s Pilot Training Channel on your Roku device

Online – visit Sporty’s Course Catalog and purchase direct access to any course

Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

How to set up aircraft equipment codes in aviation apps to file IFR flight plans

Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course: New AI Tools & 2025 Course Updates

How to set up aircraft equipment codes in aviation apps to file IFR flight plans

Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course: New AI Tools & 2025 Course Updates

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

How to set up aircraft equipment codes in aviation apps to file IFR flight plans

Setting up your airplane profile

ICAO Flight Plan Tips

Sample aircraft:

Filing an ICAO Flight Plan

More Information

Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course: New AI Tools & 2025 Course Updates

New and Revolutionary Training Tools

New Aviation Content

Pilot-Friendly Features That Haven’t Changed

How to get the courses

Email Subscription

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