Garmin Pilot adds in-app IFR clearance delivery at select airports
Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) has introduced Mobile Clearance Delivery for its Garmin Pilot app, allowing Premium subscribers on iOS devices to obtain and cancel IFR clearances electronically at select U.S. airports, according to a company statement.
The feature, developed in collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration and MITRE, is currently in an operational test and evaluation phase. Five airports are participating in initial testing: New Century AirCenter (KIXD) in Olathe, Kansas; Hooks Field (KDWH); Sugar Land Regional Airport (KSGR); Galveston Scholes International Airport (KGLS); and Appleton International Airport (KATW). A nationwide rollout is planned in phases through 2028.
After filing an IFR flight plan, users at a participating airport will see the feature appear in the app's Flights page within 30 minutes of departure. Pilots can request a clearance, receive it in text form, and respond with a "WILCO" confirmation. The cleared route can then be overlaid on the Garmin Pilot map and, where equipment supports it, sent to compatible avionics via Connext.
The clearance remains accessible from the Flights page for 48 hours after departure. A future update will add the ability to cancel IFR clearances within the app after landing, targeting uncontrolled airports and Class D towered airports when the tower is closed.
"Mobile Clearance Delivery is another example of how Garmin continues to integrate the planning and flying experience in ways that are meaningful to pilots," said Carl Wolf, Garmin Vice President Aviation Sales, Marketing, Programs & Support. "By bringing clearance delivery directly into Garmin Pilot, we're helping reduce workload, improve clarity and save valuable time for both pilots and air traffic control."
The feature is available to Garmin Pilot Premium subscribers and is accessible through the app's Flights page.
