Gliding and flight instruments: file formats and how to transfer routes
IGC files come out of approved flight recorders and out of the flight computers and apps used in gliding and paragliding. Garmin avionics take flight plans as FPL files.
Formats Gliding and flight instruments reads
| Format | Extension | Use |
|---|---|---|
| FAI/IGC Flight Recorder Data (recommended) | .igc | Flight logs (IGC) from flight recorders, flight computers and gliding or paragliding apps. |
| Garmin Flight Plan | .fpl | Flight plans (FPL) for Garmin aviation avionics such as the G1000 and GNS/GTN navigators. |
Which format to pick
Use IGC to read and analyse flights, and FPL for flight plans. An IGC file written by any converter, RouteConverter included, cannot pass the security validation used for badge, record and competition claims.
How to get a route onto Gliding and flight instruments
- Open the route, track or POI file in RouteConverter via File → Open.
- Pick FAI/IGC Flight Recorder Data in the Save as dropdown.
- Save it via File → Save as. Load the saved file with the instrument's own software or app, or copy it to the device as its manual describes.
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