Modern general aviation pilots increasingly rely on phones and tablets for charts, flight apps, checklists, and weather. Our Dream Pilot Magic Kneeboard gives you a stable, easy-to-reach place to keep your device on the leg while you fly.

Below are practical tips and instructions for using with kneeboard with any device — from MagSafe iPhones to large Android tablets — without sacrificing safety or accessibility.

Why a universal kneeboard?

A true universal kneeboard is designed to work with all device sizes and mounting systems. It keeps your device on your knee where it’s in view, accessible, and secure during all phases of flight. If you want a slim, portable option that fits everything from an iPhone to an iPad Pro, consider the Dream Pilot Magic Kneeboard, a compact, Czech-made solution with strong magnets, a soft elastic strap, and a 5-year warranty.

Quick safety checklist before you fly

• Make sure the kneeboard and device won’t interfere with controls, straps, or your view of instruments.
• Perform a secure-fit check: attach the device and give it a firm tug to ensure magnets and strap hold.
• Route any charging cable so it won’t tangle with controls or fall into gaps.

Step-by-step: attach MagSafe devices

1. Align the MagSafe ring on the back of a compatible iPhone or case with the kneeboard surface. The magnets are strong enough for in‑flight use; you should feel it snap into place.

2. Verify orientation (portrait or landscape) depending on the app you’re using — the kneeboard supports both.

3. Before takeoff, do a final check that the device sits properly.

Step-by-step: attach non-MagSafe devices (Android, older iPhones, tablets)

1. If your device isn’t MagSafe, use one of the supplied metal plates. Place a small plate between the case and the device or attach it to the case back following the plate manufacturer’s instructions.

2. For larger tablets, center the plate(s) so the magnetic field holds the weight evenly. Some pilots prefer two rectangular plates vertically aligned for heavy devices.

3. Attach the device to the kneeboard and fasten the elastic velcro strap for extra security — recommended for all setups.

4. Confirm touchscreen and orientation work as intended; many apps auto-rotate, but locking orientation may be useful during critical phases of flight.

5. Before takeoff, do a final check that the device sits properly.

Positioning and ergonomics

• Mount the kneeboard on your thigh so the device sits at a comfortable glance angle — not too low to force you to look away from the instruments for long periods.
• Rotate anytime between portrait and landscape as needed for maps vs. checklists.
• Ensure the strap is snug but not painfully tight. The strap is designed to be soft, elastic, and long enough for all pilots.

Charging and cable management

• Use a short, right-angle cable if you need in-flight charging. Long cables can tangle or slip into gaps.
• Secure any cable with a small clip or tuck excess into your pocket. Never let a cable interfere with the yoke or throttle quadrant.
• Consider a lightweight external battery for longer flights — keep it secured in your pocket or bag, not loose in the cockpit.

Turbulence and emergency considerations

• Even with strong magnets, always treat the elastic strap as your backup for critical phases (takeoff, turbulence, landing).
• If you must remove the device in an emergency, detach quickly and stow it in a secured pocket or flight bag.
• Practice attaching and detaching on the ground so it becomes second nature in the cockpit.

Care, maintenance, and lifetime

• Wipe the kneeboard with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade plastics or magnet coatings.
• Inspect the strap and magnets periodically for wear even though the design is durable and 3D-printed in the Czech Republic for high quality. 
• Check the included metal plates’ adhesive bonds on a routine basis; replace plates if they start losing adhesion. Additional plates can be purchased using this link.

Fly safe, practice your device procedure on the ground, and keep critical flight tasks priority number one.