The latest update to the Garmin Pilot app for Android adds new interactive features, including track-up orientation, faster map rendering, higher resolution at tighter zoom levels and SafeTaxi integration on the moving map display.

Version 3.0 of Garmin Pilot for Android offers pilots the option to select track-up orientation on static sectionals and enroute charts so information is always upright and displayed in the direction of flight.

With traditional static maps, labels appear in a fixed orientation, so when the map is rotated labels may appear sideways or upside down. Garmin’s interactive maps smoothly turn text and labels such as airspace, obstacle notations and important frequencies so they are always upright and easy to read, according to Garmin officials.

Configurable interactive maps enable pilots to customize the moving map display on Garmin Pilot. Map color, visibility range, label sizes for airports, NAVAIDs and more, may be tailored to pilot preference so important information pertaining to each flight is always in view.

Faster map rendering and the ability to zoom in tighter allows pilots to easily view frequency information, chart and obstacle text, ensuring nothing is overlooked throughout each flight, according to company officials. 

Panning in over an airport on the moving map page populates the airport diagram, providing pilots with access to taxiway and runway information. When taxiing on the airport surface, SafeTaxi geo-references the aircraft’s position on the diagram, adding to situational awareness at unfamiliar airports. Customers looking to incorporate SafeTaxi may do so with a paid subscription, company officials noted.

In addition to configurable maps and SafeTaxi diagrams within Garmin Pilot, the app update also includes the following new features:

• Range rings
• Extended runway centerlines
• Distance measuring tool
• Night mode options on the moving map display

The latest version of Garmin Pilot is available immediately as a free update to existing Android customers. For new customers, the latest version of Garmin Pilot is available in the Google Play store as a free download for the first 30 days. After the 30-day trial period, pilots may upgrade to a subscription that fits their flying needs.