About
SkyDrop by SkyBean is a full-featured combined GPS variometer engineered for paragliding and free-flight pilots of all experience levels. At just 80g, it is one of the lightest display variometers on the market, making it ideal for hike-and-fly, riser mounting, and tandem setups. The device fuses data from premium barometric and motion sensors to deliver instant variometer response — a critical advantage for reading thermals and competition flying. SkyDrop records FAI Category 1–accepted IGC and KML tracklogs on 32GB of onboard storage, and features competition waypoint navigation with route length optimization and real-time airspace violation warnings. Five adjustable altimeters (relative, absolute, GPS, QNH, and AGL) leverage preloaded worldwide terrain data for altitude-above-ground awareness. Via Bluetooth, SkyDrop integrates seamlessly with Android apps including XCTrack, FlyMe, XCSoar, LK8000, TopHat, Sky Land Tracker, and Paragliding Dashboard, as well as iOS via FlySkyHy. Note: wired Apple device connection is not supported. The interface is fully customizable with multiple configurable screens and widgets. Additional features include a G-meter, weak lift detection (pre-thermal acoustic cue), automatic take-off and landing detection, real-time clock, flight book, and UART output for e-reader connectivity. The 2,000 mAh battery delivers approximately 25 hours of flight time. All future firmware features are provided free via software updates, making SkyDrop a long-term investment for serious pilots.
Key Features
- Instant Variometer Response: Sensor fusion of top-tier barometric and motion sensors delivers immediate vario feedback, critical for thermal detection and competition flying.
- FAI Category 1 IGC Flight Logging: Records IGC and KML tracklogs accepted for FAI Category 1 competitions, stored on 32GB of onboard memory.
- Bluetooth App Connectivity: Connects wirelessly to Android flight apps (XCTrack, XCSoar, FlyMe, LK8000, TopHat) and iOS via FlySkyHy for live telemetry and navigation.
- Competition Waypoint Navigation & Airspace Warnings: Supports competition waypoint routing with route length optimization and real-time airspace violation alerts.
- Fully Customizable Display: Multiple configurable screens and widgets, five adjustable altimeters (including AGL with preloaded worldwide terrain data), and a G-meter.
Use Cases
- Competition paragliding pilots requiring FAI Category 1 IGC flight logging and optimized waypoint navigation for official events.
- Hike-and-fly enthusiasts who need an ultralight (80g) vario that pairs with a smartphone for complete navigation without heavy gear.
- Tandem pilots seeking a compact, mountable instrument that can be placed on a passenger's shoulder or helmet without obstructing the cockpit.
- Acro pilots who need real-time altitude alarms, G-force metering, and instant vario response during dynamic maneuvers.
- Cross-country pilots wanting integrated airspace violation warnings, wind speed/direction data, and AGL altitude awareness during long flights.
Pros
- Ultralight at 80g: Among the lightest display variometers available, making it perfect for hike-and-fly, riser mounting, and minimalist setups.
- Free Lifetime Software Updates: All future features and improvements are delivered via free firmware updates, protecting the long-term value of the investment.
- Broad App Ecosystem Compatibility: Works with the most popular paragliding apps on both Android and iOS via Bluetooth, fitting seamlessly into existing pilot workflows.
- Long Battery Life: 25-hour flight time on a single charge covers even the longest cross-country or expedition days without worry.
Cons
- No Wired Apple Device Support: SkyDrop cannot connect to iPhones or iPads via cable; iOS users are limited to Bluetooth-only connectivity through FlySkyHy.
- Premium Price Point: At €349, SkyDrop sits in the mid-to-upper price range for variometers, which may be a barrier for recreational or beginner pilots.
- No Built-In Live Tracking: Live GPS tracking to online platforms requires pairing with a smartphone app rather than being handled natively by the device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SkyDrop compatible with iPhone?
SkyDrop is not compatible with Apple devices via a cable connection. However, it does connect to iOS devices wirelessly via Bluetooth using the FlySkyHy app.
Are SkyDrop's IGC logs accepted for FAI competitions?
Yes. SkyDrop generates FAI Category 1–accepted IGC tracklogs, making it suitable for use in official FAI-sanctioned paragliding competitions.
How long does the battery last?
SkyDrop is equipped with a 2,000 mAh battery that provides approximately 25 hours of continuous flight time.
Which Android apps are compatible with SkyDrop?
SkyDrop supports XCTrack, FlyMe, XCSoar, LK8000, TopHat, Sky Land Tracker, and Paragliding Dashboard via Bluetooth for telemetry and live navigation.
Do future feature updates cost extra?
No. SkyBean provides all future software features and improvements as free over-the-air updates, so your device continues to improve at no additional cost.
