electronic pilot logbook on-line or web based?
Recently, for about the 100th time, I lost my little red log book. Of course it was returned, but it did raise an issue for me. Many of my FOs log t...
Recently, for about the 100th time, I lost my little red log book. Of course it was returned, but it did raise an issue for me. Many of my FOs log their time on their PDA, phone, whatever. I happen to own a Droid, and started looking for Droid logbook software, but apparently, none exists. So I started thinking about web based subscription software, and Google finds a few of those.
Would those of you who have experience with electronic logbooks please offer some recommendations? Especially with the web-based versions.
I currently track: Date, Tail#, Type, From, To, Start (hh:mm), End (hh:mm), Total (hh:mm), SchedTime (hh:mm), Overs (mm), TLH (Takeoff, Landing, Holding). The TLH is just for proving instrument currency under Part 91, should the need ever arise—it never has.
If I am going to do this, in addition to the above, I would like the following:
1) The ability to quickly print out layover cities for tax deductions.
2) Warnings on CFI, Medical, and any other expirations
3) Web + PC Based. Right now there are none available for the Droid. I don’t want to purchase some software, then, when the next PDA/Phone comes, it out won’t handle it. If web based, then there are places in the world where it won’t work, but I can update when I get back to civilization.
4) Ability to download back to my PC so that I am not stuck if the provider goes out of business.
5) Reasonably priced.
In the past 23 years, I have, not even once, been required by anyone to produce a log book. Not even the FAA. So I am not even certain why I am keeping it. So, if it is too hard to use, or is too expensive, I’ll just stay with paper.
Thanks
There are several that look good even "free"ones like My-elogbook http://www.my-elogbook.com/
The only issue I have with those, particularly the free ones, are how do you know that they will be operational tomorrow? There really is no good way to tell the financial stability nor the servers being used etc.
I like electronic logs, but I prefer to keep them on MY equipment which I know will be safe. Meaning a machine that doesn’t leave the house and has an off site backup or two. There are lots of those to choose from and various prices, none of them very expensive. The EPL looks good, although I haven’t converted to it just yet. Its not expensive (its shareware) http://www.e-pilotworld.com/1024×768/index.htm If you want a "shopping list" check out the list of "BEST" "free" ones at http://www.freedownloadscenter.com/Best/faa-logbook.html
If you want easy remote access, use GotoMyPC or VNC or any remote access software, that way you still have "web access" and its secure. Many PDA’s will support remote access, not sure about the Droid my Blackberry works great with them.
You want the old fashioned paper log.
It will be difficult to recreate any endorsment, BFR’s or advanced ratings in the event your electronic gizmo breaks, or the website is hacked.
Further, if you ever rent an aircraft, get involved in an enforcment action (TFR violation?), or have a mishap, you’ll need to produce logs.
If you are worried about losing a paper logbook, keep it in a safe at home.