Top Flight Log Books – Organize Your Flight Records

Taking Off with the Right Logbook

A well-chosen flight logbook is crucial for accurate record-keeping, progress tracking, and regulatory compliance. This list presents the top flight logbooks for 2025, helping drone operators, photographers, surveyors, and other aviation professionals select the perfect tool to meticulously document their flights. Whether you prefer a traditional paper logbook or a digital solution, we've got you covered. Stop sifting through countless options and discover the ideal logbook to manage your flight history efficiently.

1. ASA Standard Pilot Logbook (ASA-SP-30)

The ASA Standard Pilot Logbook (ASA-SP-30) is a cornerstone of the aviation industry and a popular choice for pilots of all levels, including drone operators transitioning to manned aircraft or seeking a robust, standardized logging solution. Its widespread acceptance makes it a readily recognizable document for flight schools, airlines, and even insurance companies, bolstering its credibility as a reliable record of your flight experience. While designed primarily for traditional aircraft, its flexible structure makes it adaptable for meticulous drone operations logging.

This logbook excels in its simplicity and adherence to FAA record-keeping requirements. Its traditional columnar format provides dedicated spaces for all essential information, including date, aircraft type (which can be adapted for drone model), identification (tail number or drone serial number), departure and arrival locations, flight time, and type of operation (e.g., aerial photography, survey, inspection). This structured approach allows drone operators to maintain consistent and organized records, crucial for demonstrating operational experience, especially for commercial applications.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Durable Construction: The hardcover binding and high-quality paper ensure the logbook withstands the rigors of field use and provides long-term protection for your valuable flight data. This durability is a key advantage over digital-only logging solutions that can be lost or corrupted.
• FAA Compliance: Meeting all FAA record-keeping requirements, it offers a familiar format that simplifies the transition for drone pilots pursuing manned aircraft certifications. This standardization also streamlines potential audits and ensures compliance with regulatory demands.
• Comprehensive Recording: With space for over 1,800 flight entries across 208 pages, it provides ample room to document extensive flight operations. This capacity minimizes the need for frequent logbook replacements, offering a continuous record of your flight history.
• Clear and Concise Layout: The straightforward columnar format facilitates quick and efficient logging, reducing administrative overhead. This ease of use encourages consistent logging practices, which are essential for maintaining accurate flight records.
• Cost-Effective: Typically priced under $15, it offers an affordable solution for meticulous flight logging, especially for drone pilots who may not require the specialized features of more expensive electronic logbooks.

Pros:

• Industry-standard format recognized by aviation professionals
• Durable construction ensuring longevity
• Clear, user-friendly columnar format
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Basic design lacking modern features like tabs or color-coding. While not detrimental to its core function, this might feel less organized for users accustomed to more visually structured logs.
• Bulkier than digital solutions, potentially inconvenient for carrying in flight bags. Consider photocopying relevant pages for specific operations to reduce bulk.
• Limited space for remarks in each entry. While sufficient for basic notes, more extensive observations might require supplemental documentation.

Implementation Tips for Drone Operators:

• Adapt the "Aircraft Type" field for your drone model (e.g., DJI Mavic 3, Phantom 4 Pro).
• Use the "Identification" field for your drone's serial number.
• Clearly define the "Type of Operation" (e.g., Aerial Photography, Infrastructure Inspection, Search and Rescue).
• Utilize supplemental documentation (e.g., flight logs from drone software, mission plans) to support the entries in the logbook and provide richer detail when necessary.

Website: https://www.asa2fly.com/Standard-Pilot-Log-Black-P1624.aspx

The ASA Standard Pilot Logbook deserves its place on this list due to its affordability, robust construction, adherence to regulatory standards, and wide acceptance within the aviation community. While its simplicity might be perceived as a limitation by some, it serves as a powerful testament to the enduring value of clear, concise, and reliable record-keeping, especially valuable for drone pilots seeking a proven method for documenting their flight operations.

2. Jeppesen Professional Pilot Logbook

The Jeppesen Professional Pilot Logbook stands out as a premium option designed for the serious aviator, and its comprehensive features make it relevant even for advanced drone operations. While primarily intended for manned aircraft pilots, its robust structure, detailed logging capabilities, and adherence to rigorous record-keeping standards make it a compelling choice for drone professionals who prioritize meticulous data management. Think of it as the gold standard for flight logging, applicable whether you're piloting a Cessna or a sophisticated drone.

This logbook goes beyond simply tracking flight hours. Its detailed sections allow for recording complex flight scenarios, including instrument approaches – a level of detail that can be incredibly valuable for drone operations involving intricate flight paths or beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. Imagine needing to demonstrate precise flight data for regulatory audits, insurance claims, or client presentations – the Jeppesen logbook empowers you with the tools to do just that. This granular logging can also be instrumental in analyzing flight performance and identifying areas for improvement within your drone team.

Features and Benefits:

• Professional-grade hardcover with superior binding quality: This logbook is built to last, withstanding the rigors of travel and frequent use, ensuring your valuable flight data remains safe and secure.
• Expanded flight entry format: Provides ample space to document specifics relevant to drone operations like payload configuration, sensor data acquisition parameters, and environmental conditions. This level of detail can be critical for post-flight analysis, especially in commercial applications like surveying, inspection, or precision agriculture.
• Dedicated sections for certificates, ratings, and endorsements: While drone-specific certifications might not perfectly align with the existing sections, these areas can be adapted to record relevant drone licenses, waivers, and training credentials, maintaining all essential qualifications in a single, organized location.
• Summary pages for tracking flight time totals: Easily track total flight hours, crucial for maintenance scheduling, pilot proficiency assessments, and demonstrating operational experience.
• Includes reference information for proper logging procedures: While geared towards manned aviation regulations, this information promotes a standardized and disciplined approach to record-keeping, a valuable practice for any professional drone operation.

Pros:

• High-quality construction: Ensures your logbook can withstand extensive use in various environments.
• Extra space for detailed information: Enables thorough documentation of drone-specific flight parameters.
• Professional appearance: Presents a polished image for client interactions and regulatory submissions.
• Organized layout: Simplifies record auditing and retrieval of specific flight data.

Cons:

• Higher price point (typically $25-30): More expensive than simpler logbooks. Consider this an investment in robust, long-term record-keeping.
• Larger size: Less portable than smaller logbooks, though this is a trade-off for the increased recording space.
• Density of information fields: The detailed layout may initially seem overwhelming, but the structure ultimately facilitates comprehensive logging.

Implementation Tips:

• Customize the existing fields to align with drone-specific data points. For instance, "Aircraft Type" could be adapted to "Drone Model," and sections for instrument approaches could be repurposed to document autonomous flight modes or specific mission parameters.
• Develop a standardized logging procedure within your team to ensure consistency and accuracy across all flight records.

Website: https://shop.jeppesen.com/products/professional-pilot-logbook

The Jeppesen Professional Pilot Logbook, while designed for manned aviation, offers a powerful solution for drone professionals seeking a robust and comprehensive flight logging system. Its durable construction, detailed recording capabilities, and emphasis on organized record-keeping make it a valuable tool for any serious drone operation. While the cost is higher than basic logbooks, the benefits in terms of data integrity, professional presentation, and long-term value make it a worthwhile investment for demanding drone pilots and operations managers.

3. ForeFlight Logbook (Digital)

ForeFlight Logbook offers a comprehensive digital solution for managing flight records, seamlessly integrated into the popular ForeFlight mobile app. It's an excellent choice for pilots who want to streamline their logging process and leverage the power of digital organization, especially those already invested in the ForeFlight ecosystem. While not a physical logbook, it provides the functionality to generate printable reports when needed for compliance or sharing. This electronic logbook automatically captures flight details when connected to compatible avionics systems, minimizing manual data entry and reducing the risk of transcription errors. It offers a range of tools for tracking flight time, managing endorsements and certifications, generating reports, and securely backing up data to the cloud. For drone operations, especially for larger teams or enterprise settings, ForeFlight Logbook can be a powerful tool for centralizing flight data, tracking pilot currency, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

ForeFlight Logbook significantly reduces administrative overhead for pilots. Imagine a surveyor using a drone to inspect power lines. With ForeFlight Logbook, the flight data is automatically captured, including GPS coordinates, flight duration, and even images or videos taken during the inspection. This eliminates the tedious process of manual logging and allows the surveyor to focus on the task at hand. Similarly, for drone service providers managing multiple pilots and aircraft, ForeFlight Logbook’s centralized platform simplifies record-keeping and ensures that all flight data is readily accessible and organized. You can learn more about ForeFlight Logbook (Digital) to see if its features align with your specific needs. Although ForeFlight is primarily geared towards traditional aviation, its digital logbook functionalities can be adapted and utilized for managing drone flight operations effectively.

Features:

• Automatic flight logging: Captures flight data automatically when connected to compatible avionics. While this feature might not directly translate to all drone operations, the ability to manually log detailed information efficiently is still a major benefit.
• Cloud synchronization: Keeps logbook data synced across multiple devices, ensuring access to up-to-date records anytime, anywhere.
• Currency tracking and alerts: Monitors expiring certifications and sends alerts to maintain compliance.
• Customizable fields and reports: Allows tailoring data fields and report formats to specific needs.
• Digital attachments: Supports uploading photos, documents, and endorsements for a comprehensive record.

Pros:

• Reduced manual entry: Auto-logging significantly minimizes manual data input, saving time and improving accuracy.
• Data security: Cloud backup ensures logbook data is safe and accessible even if a device is lost or damaged.
• Advanced analytics: Offers powerful filtering and reporting capabilities for in-depth flight analysis.
• Easy sharing: Simplifies sharing logbook entries with instructors, employers, or regulatory bodies.

Cons:

• Subscription cost: Requires a ForeFlight subscription, starting at $99/year.
• Device dependence: Requires electronic devices and reliable battery life.
• Acceptance: Some examiners or organizations may still require printed records.
• Learning curve: Pilots accustomed to paper logbooks may require some time to adapt.

Website: https://www.foreflight.com/products/logbook/

Implementation Tip: For drone operators, while direct avionics integration might not be feasible, manually entering detailed flight information, including drone type, payload, mission objective, and location, can maximize the organizational benefits of ForeFlight Logbook. Utilizing the cloud sync feature and digital attachment capabilities can create a comprehensive and searchable database of your drone operations.

4. Pilot's Flight Logbook and Record by Gleim

The Gleim Pilot's Flight Logbook and Record is a popular choice, particularly for those starting their aviation journey, and its comprehensive features make it a valuable tool that can be carried throughout a pilot's career. Its focus on proper logging procedures, combined with an affordable price point, makes it an excellent option for both student pilots building hours and seasoned professionals maintaining meticulous records. For drone pilots transitioning to manned aviation, this logbook provides a familiar and structured way to document flight time, mirroring the importance of detailed record-keeping in both fields.

While designed primarily for airplane pilots, the Gleim logbook's adaptable format makes it suitable for documenting drone flights as well. The dedicated sections for endorsements, certificates, and ratings can be repurposed to track drone-specific certifications, waivers, and authorizations. Furthermore, the ample space for over 1,500 flight entries allows pilots to meticulously log details such as flight location, duration, purpose, and equipment used. This detailed record-keeping is essential for demonstrating operational experience, maintaining compliance with regulations, and showcasing professionalism to clients. Solo drone operators, small to medium drone teams, and enterprise drone operations managers alike can benefit from this structured approach to flight logging. Even for specialized applications like surveying, utility inspections, and professional photography/videography, this logbook provides a robust platform to record flight data and maintain an organized history of operations. You can Learn more about Pilot's Flight Logbook and Record by Gleim.

The spiral binding is a key feature, allowing the logbook to lay flat, which is particularly convenient in cramped cockpits or when making entries on the go after a drone flight. However, this convenience comes with a potential trade-off in long-term durability compared to hardcover logbooks. While typically priced under $15, making it a very budget-friendly option, the design is more utilitarian than premium. Some users have noted that the columns for entries are slightly narrower compared to other logbooks, which might require smaller handwriting or abbreviated entries.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Spiral Binding: Allows the logbook to lay flat for easy entry writing.
• Detailed Instructions: Provides guidance on FAA-compliant logging procedures, applicable to best practices for any pilot.
• Comprehensive Sections: Includes spaces for certificates, ratings, medical information, and endorsements, adaptable for drone-specific information.
• Summary Pages: Offers a quick overview of total flight experience.
• Affordable Price: Generally available for under $15.

Pros:

• Cost-effective solution for meticulous flight logging.
• Spiral binding enhances usability in various situations.
• Clear instructions simplify the logging process for beginners.
• Balances detailed recording with a straightforward layout.

Cons:

• Spiral binding may be less durable in the long run.
• Design is functional rather than aesthetically polished.
• Some users find the column width slightly restrictive.

Website: https://www.gleimaviation.com/shop/logbook/

5. The Standard UAS Operator Logbook by ASA

The Standard UAS Operator Logbook by ASA is a purpose-built solution for documenting drone flights, catering specifically to the needs of unmanned aircraft system (UAS) operators. Unlike generic pilot logbooks, it acknowledges the unique requirements of drone operations, making it a valuable tool for solo drone operators, small to medium drone teams, enterprise drone operations managers, and anyone using drones professionally, such as photographers, videographers, surveyors, utility inspectors, and drone service providers.

This logbook goes beyond simply recording flight times and locations. It includes dedicated sections for tracking battery cycles, a crucial aspect of drone maintenance and performance monitoring. Meticulous equipment maintenance logs help ensure the airworthiness of your drone and can be invaluable for warranty claims or insurance purposes. Furthermore, it provides fields for logging remote controller information, recognizing the integral role this equipment plays in UAS operations.

For commercial drone pilots operating under Part 107, this logbook is particularly relevant. It aligns with FAA record-keeping requirements, facilitating compliance and simplifying the process of demonstrating operational history. Fields for recording the purpose of each flight, along with any incidents or equipment issues encountered, contribute to a comprehensive operational record. Summary pages provide an overview of total flight time and accumulated experience, useful for tracking progress and demonstrating proficiency. The inclusion of reference information regarding drone regulations provides a handy quick-reference guide, although it shouldn't replace consulting official sources.

Practical Applications and Use Cases:

• Commercial Drone Operations: Meeting Part 107 record-keeping requirements is paramount for commercial operators. This logbook streamlines that process.
• Maintenance Tracking: Detailed records of battery cycles and maintenance activities help optimize drone performance and longevity.
• Training and Proficiency: Logging flight hours and various operational scenarios helps pilots track their progress and build experience.
• Incident Reporting: Dedicated sections for recording incidents or equipment malfunctions facilitate accurate reporting and analysis.
• Insurance Claims: A comprehensive flight log can be crucial in supporting insurance claims related to drone operations.

Pros:

• Purpose-built for drone operations: Avoids the awkwardness of adapting a traditional pilot logbook to UAS needs.
• Part 107 Compliant: Specifically designed to meet FAA record-keeping requirements.
• Compact and Portable: Fits easily in most drone carrying cases.
• Affordable: Typically priced between $12-15, making it an accessible tool for all drone operators.

Cons:

• Limited Versatility: Not ideal for pilots who also fly traditional aircraft.
• Fewer Pages: May need replacing more frequently than a standard pilot logbook.
• Digital Preference: Some operators may prefer fully digital logging solutions.

For a deeper dive into the features and benefits, you can Learn more about The Standard UAS Operator Logbook by ASA.

Implementation Tip: Establish a routine for filling out the logbook after each flight to ensure accurate and consistent record-keeping.

Website: https://www.asa2fly.com/Standard-UAS-Operator-Log-P2161.aspx

This logbook earns its place on this list because of its specialized design, affordability, and direct relevance to the unique requirements of drone operations, making it an essential tool for both recreational and professional drone pilots alike.

6. MyFlightbook Electronic Logbook (Physical Edition)

For drone professionals who appreciate the convenience of digital logging but also require a tangible, official record, MyFlightbook's Electronic Logbook (Physical Edition) offers a compelling hybrid approach. This unique service bridges the gap between electronic record-keeping and the traditional paper logbook, providing a professional and verifiable hard copy generated directly from your digital flight data. This is particularly valuable for drone operations managers needing to present official flight records to clients or regulatory bodies, and for individual drone operators wanting a robust backup of their flight history.

MyFlightbook eliminates the tedious and error-prone process of manual transcription. You input your flight data into the MyFlightbook app or website, and then generate a professionally bound physical logbook that mirrors your digital records. This ensures absolute consistency between your electronic and paper logs, reducing administrative overhead and mitigating the risk of discrepancies. The service boasts customizable formatting options, allowing you to choose which fields to include and how the data is presented in the printed version. You can select specific data points relevant to drone operations, such as location coordinates, flight altitude, drone model, sensor payload, and client information. This flexibility distinguishes MyFlightbook from traditional pre-printed logbooks, offering a tailored solution for various drone applications.

The ability to generate summary pages and graphical representations of your flight history is a powerful feature for visualizing flight activity over time, identifying trends, and demonstrating operational experience to clients or during audits. Furthermore, the professional appearance of the bound logbook enhances credibility during client presentations, insurance audits, or interactions with aviation authorities. The customizable cover options also allow for personalization and branding.

While MyFlightbook offers a compelling solution, there are some considerations. It requires diligent maintenance of digital flight logs within the MyFlightbook system, making it unsuitable for pilots who prefer exclusively paper-based logging. Additionally, the cost is higher than purchasing a standard blank logbook due to the printing and binding services involved. Updates to the physical logbook necessitate a reprint, incurring additional costs and waiting for delivery. Unfortunately, pricing information isn't readily available on the linked page and requires contacting MyFlightbook directly. Technical requirements are minimal, primarily involving access to a computer and internet connection to utilize the MyFlightbook platform.

Implementation Tip: Develop a consistent workflow for entering your flight data into MyFlightbook immediately after each flight. This ensures data accuracy and minimizes the effort required to generate an updated physical logbook when needed.

In summary: MyFlightbook Electronic Logbook (Physical Edition) earns its place on this list by providing a streamlined solution for drone professionals seeking a verifiable and presentable physical record of their flight operations while leveraging the convenience of digital logbook management. The customization options, professional binding, and automated generation from digital data offer significant advantages over traditional paper logbooks, despite the higher cost and reliance on maintaining digital records. Visit the MyFlightbook website for more information.

7. Sporty's Deluxe Pilot Logbook

For pilots who appreciate a touch of class and demand a logbook built for the long haul, the Sporty's Deluxe Pilot Logbook stands out. While designed for airplane pilots, its robust features translate well to the meticulous record-keeping demands of professional drone operations. This logbook offers a premium experience with a focus on organization and longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for serious drone professionals.

This logbook goes beyond basic flight logging. Its structured format encourages detailed record keeping, which can be invaluable for drone operations. Imagine easily tracking flight times for specific clients, noting maintenance performed on individual drones, or quickly referencing past flights for specific locations. The dedicated endorsements section can be repurposed to track certifications, waivers, or specialized training for your drone team.

Features and Benefits:

• Premium Materials & Construction: The genuine leather cover with gold embossing gives this logbook a professional look and feel, suitable for client presentations or audits. The durable construction ensures your flight records are protected for years to come.
• Tabbed Sections & Organized Layout: Quickly navigate to different sections of your logbook, such as total flight times, individual drone logs, maintenance records, or training certifications. This level of organization is crucial for efficient record retrieval and analysis, especially for larger drone teams or enterprise operations.
• Ample Writing Space: The extra-large pages provide plenty of room for detailed remarks, crucial for noting specific flight parameters (altitude, wind speed, temperature), payload information, or any incidents encountered during a mission. This is particularly useful for surveyors, utility inspectors, and other professionals gathering precise data.
• Lay-Flat Binding: The binding allows the logbook to lay flat, making it easier to write entries, especially when working in the field or on uneven surfaces.

Pros:

• Professional appearance instills confidence and credibility.
• Durable construction ensures long-term protection of your records.
• Excellent organization facilitates quick access to information.
• Ample writing space allows for detailed entries.

Cons:

• Higher Price Point (typically $40-50): This represents a more significant investment than standard logbooks, but the quality and longevity may justify the expense for serious professionals.
• Heavier and Bulkier: The premium materials add weight and bulk, potentially less convenient for carrying on-site.
• Leather Requires Maintenance: Occasional conditioning is needed to prevent the leather from drying or cracking.

Implementation/Setup Tips:

• Adapt Sections for Drone Operations: While designed for airplanes, the sections can be easily adapted. Use the "Aircraft Type" field to record your drone model and serial number. Repurpose the "Endorsements" section for tracking drone certifications, waivers, or specialized training.
• Develop a Standardized Logging Procedure: Establish a consistent format for recording flight data and maintenance information to ensure uniformity and ease of retrieval.
• Regularly Review and Update: Make it a habit to update the logbook after each flight or maintenance session to avoid backlog and ensure accuracy.

Comparison:

Compared to simpler logbooks or digital logging apps, the Sporty's Deluxe Pilot Logbook offers a tangible and durable record of your flight operations. While digital solutions offer convenience and automated calculations, a physical logbook provides a reliable backup and a professional presentation piece.

Website: https://www.sportys.com/deluxe-pilot-logbook.html

This logbook deserves its place on this list because it offers a premium, durable, and well-organized solution for pilots who value meticulous record-keeping. While the price point may be higher, the long-term benefits of its quality and organization make it a valuable investment for serious drone professionals, especially those in enterprise operations or providing specialized services.

Top 7 Flight Log Books: Feature Comparison

Product	Core Features ✨	User Experience ★	Value Proposition 💰	Target Audience 👥	Unique Selling Points 🏆
ASA Standard Pilot Logbook (ASA-SP-30)	Durable hardcover, 208 pages, FAA compliant	Clear, simple columnar layout	Affordable and industry standard	Traditional pilots, flight schools	Recognized format for record-keeping
Jeppesen Professional Pilot Logbook	Premium binding, expanded detail sections, certificate tracking	Professional, organized and detailed	Enhanced tracking for career pilots	Career pilots, airline aspirants	Extra space for ratings and endorsements
ForeFlight Logbook (Digital)	Auto logging, cloud sync, customizable fields	Effortless digital entry with advanced analytics	Reduces manual entry; flexible data access	Tech-savvy and commercial pilots	Integrated auto-logging & cloud backup
Pilot's Flight Logbook and Record by Gleim	Spiral binding, FAA logging instructions, dedicated sections	Easy entry with student-friendly design	Affordable, balanced detail and simplicity	Student pilots and emerging professionals	Comprehensive instructions for correct logging
The Standard UAS Operator Logbook by ASA	Drone-specific fields, battery cycle and maintenance tracking	Tailored, compact design for drone operations	Purpose-built for UAS compliance	Commercial drone pilots	Specialized layout for Part 107 and UAS operations
MyFlightbook Electronic Logbook (Physical)	Hybrid digital-to-print solution, customizable binding options	Seamless integration between digital and printed records	Backup physical record from digital data	Digitally-savvy pilots valuing backups	Custom printed log reprints generated from digital data
Sporty's Deluxe Pilot Logbook	Genuine leather cover, tabbed sections, premium paper	Luxurious feel, durable and well-organized	Professional look with long-term durability	Career-oriented pilots, professionals	Luxury design with gold embossing and easy navigation tabs

Choosing Your Wingman: The Perfect Flight Log Book

From traditional paper logbooks like the ASA Standard Pilot Logbook and Jeppesen Professional Pilot Logbook to digital options like ForeFlight and MyFlightbook, the variety of flight logging tools available can seem overwhelming. We've explored several options, including those specifically designed for UAS operations like The Standard UAS Operator Logbook by ASA. Key takeaways include considering factors like cost, portability, features (such as automated calculations and cloud backups for digital versions), and the overall user experience. The best logbook for you will depend on your individual preferences and operational needs. For example, solo drone operators might prioritize simplicity, while enterprise teams may benefit from the robust features of a digital platform. Flight training involves a lot of memorization. To streamline your study process, consider using tools to make flashcards from pdf versions of your training materials.

Selecting the right tool is essential, but equally important is maintaining it diligently. Accurate and consistent logging not only helps you track your flight hours and experience but also demonstrates your professionalism and commitment to safety. Whether you’re a professional photographer, surveyor, or drone service provider, a well-maintained logbook is a valuable asset. It's a testament to your journey as a pilot and a powerful tool for managing your operations effectively.

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