IP Inbound

IP Inbound is an application that helps pilots fly an IP-to-target run to an accurate time on target. This application is useful for formation demo pilots, or pilots who participate in simulated tactical events, and need to be over a target at a precise time.

THE PROBLEM

Maybe you are lead of a formation flight over a ceremony and you have specific time on target (TOT), or you are being tested on your ability to put a flour bomb on a mock target at a precise moment. In either case, you are likely given three pieces of information:

1. Your target location
2. A desired time on target
3. An initial point (IP) or run-in direction

Your job is to select a run-in speed, and plan your arrival over the IP so that you arrive over the target at TOT. For flights that must coordinate with a band or pyrotechnics display on the ground, or for aircraft that are being tested on their timing, seconds matter.

THE SOLUTION

This iOS application allows you to select or enter a precise target coordinate, choose an IP bearing and distance, and a desired ground speed, and then enter your TOT. It then provides you with useful information during each phase of your flight:

ON THE GROUND, it shows you a countdown to your TOT for takeoff planning.

AIRBORNE, PRE-IP it provides you with lateral guidance to the IP, and a countdown for when you must exit the IP to make your TOT. It will also automatically provide you with direct-to-target guidance if it calculates that you must skip your IP in order to make your TOT.

AIRBORNE, POST-IP it provides you with lateral guidance for the IP-to-target run, and tells you to speed up or slow down to meet your TOT.

The app automatically includes turning time in its calculations: For example, if you are running very early and opt to make a 360 or an S-turn during the IP-to-target run, it will include the time needed to complete the turn in its estimated-time-of-arrival (ETA) calculations, and airspeed guidance.