Max talks with Cole Crawford from ForeFlight about the company's latest innovation: Dynamic Procedures. Built to replace the static, legacy approach chart paradigm, Dynamic Procedures enables pilots to access IFR approach information dynamically, contextually, and interactively—right from the ForeFlight map screen.
Cole explains that most pilots spend their time in ForeFlight's moving map, but approach procedures often pulled them out of that environment into static "plates." Dynamic Procedures changes that by embedding approach information into the map itself, using a smart sidebar that adjusts to what's relevant—no more scanning through unnecessary minimums or ambiguous notes.
Max and Cole walk through an ILS approach into Austin, Texas, highlighting features like:
- A dynamic sidebar showing stepdowns, minimums, and missed instructions
- Color-coded segments that reflect which part of the procedure is active
- Integrated 3D lighting views showing actual approach light systems
- Compatibility with both FAA and Jeppesen charts
- One-tap toggling between chart and chartless views
Cole also introduces the revamped "Approach Mode" in Profile View. It declutters the horizontal profile to focus solely on the approach, making threshold crossing height, descent angles, and fix altitudes easier to interpret. The profile also includes range tick marks so pilots can visualize their distance from the runway—helpful when sequencing into an uncontrolled field or estimating when to descend.
The conversation explores how this feature enhances safety—particularly by minimizing the chance of referencing incorrect minimums or missing key notes during busy phases of flight. Cole shares how the sidebar automatically selects the applicable minimum for the aircraft category, based on user input. And the system can handle complex logic, such as adjusting minimums for altimeter source changes—automatically, without the pilot having to do the math.
They demonstrate several unique procedures, including RNAV approaches with course reversals and circling minimums. In circling scenarios, the system visually depicts the circling area boundary on the map, helping pilots better visualize protected airspace—especially when flying at non-standard pattern altitudes.
The discussion wraps up with insights into how ForeFlight builds this feature using raw procedural data from global ANSPs (Air Navigation Service Providers). Instead of pre-composed charts, Dynamic Procedures generates visuals on-the-fly using Jeppesen data, allowing more flexibility, better legibility, and real-time filtering. The app dynamically renders labels, declutters unnecessary data, and tailors the view to your position and approach segment.
Cole offers practical advice for pilots transitioning to this new paradigm. He encourages users not to discard traditional charts immediately, but to use Dynamic Procedures alongside plates at first, eventually growing comfortable with the new tool as a primary briefing method—similar to how many pilots gradually adopted ForeFlight's aeronautical map over VFR sectionals and low-altitude charts.
The feature will roll out with a preview to all ForeFlight subscribers in supported regions (U.S., Canada, Pacific Islands), after which it will be available to Essential-tier and above subscribers. Extensive documentation, webinars, and in-app support will help pilots get up to speed.
This episode is essential listening for IFR pilots interested in the future of digital flight planning and safety—especially those ready to reimagine how they brief and fly approaches.
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