Flying isn’t just about stick and rudder—it’s about staying sharp, organized, and always a step ahead of the aircraft. Whether you’re navigating a busy traffic pattern or briefing an approach under IMC, a well-stocked kneeboard keeps critical information right where you need it.

So what deserves a spot on your kneeboard? Here are five essential tools every pilot should keep close at hand, and how the right pilot kneeboard makes managing them effortless.

1️⃣ Navigation Log & Flight Plan

Think of your nav log as your in-flight game plan. It holds everything from headings and waypoints to fuel estimates and ETA calculations. Having it clipped directly to your kneeboard means you won’t be scrambling for loose papers mid-flight—especially when workload spikes.

A thoughtfully designed kneeboard with a strong metal clip lets you secure your nav log in place, so it’s always easy to scan and update, even when a bit of turbulence tries to shake things up.

2️⃣ Pens & Pencils at the Ready

There’s nothing more frustrating than needing to jot down a revised squawk code or last-minute clearance—and realizing your pen has vanished into the cockpit abyss. Keeping two writing tools (ideally a pen and a pencil) on your kneeboard ensures you’re always prepared to note changes or make quick adjustments.

Features like integrated pen loops on a premium kneeboard mean your writing tools have a dedicated spot, right at your fingertips.

3️⃣ E6B or Flight Calculator

Whether you’re old school with a manual E6B or you prefer a compact electronic flight computer, quick calculations for wind correction angles, ground speed, or fuel burns are part of smart, safe flying. Tucking it into a side pocket of your kneeboard means it’s instantly accessible without rummaging through your flight bag.

With a spacious tri-fold kneeboard, there’s plenty of room to slide your E6B in alongside other essentials, keeping your cockpit clean and your calculations close.

4️⃣ Airport Diagrams & Approach Plates

From taxiing at unfamiliar airports to briefing an ILS in busy airspace, clear diagrams and approach plates are non-negotiable. Organizing them right on your kneeboard—perhaps in a glare-free plastic sleeve—means you can review them at a glance, rather than flipping through a binder while juggling the controls.

A kneeboard with transparent inserts makes this easy, giving you a dedicated spot for critical charts without having to wrestle papers in your lap.

5️⃣ Emergency Checklists & Key Frequencies

Emergencies are rare, but preparation shouldn’t be. Keeping an immediate-action checklist on your kneeboard shaves off valuable time if the unexpected happens. Likewise, a small card with local and en route frequencies makes it simple to dial up a new controller without hesitation.

A secure clip on your kneeboard ensures these vital references stay put, no matter how busy—or bumpy—the flight gets.

✈ Stay Ahead of the Aircraft

In aviation, staying organized means flying safer and more confidently. A well-equipped kneeboard acts like your personal flight deck command center, putting everything you need exactly where you expect it to be.

Whether it’s a carefully laid-out nav log, a pen for last-minute instructions, or a place to stash your approach plates, a sturdy pilot kneeboard ties it all together—so you can keep your head up, eyes out, and stay ahead of the airplane.

✅ Looking to upgrade your cockpit toolkit?
Explore our collection of pilot kneeboards designed to make every flight simpler, smoother, and more organized.