Introduction
Choosing the best pilot logbook is one of the first professional decisions a student makes in flight training. Your logbook isn’t just a notebook — it’s your FAA record, your checkride verification tool, and eventually your aviation résumé.
Whether you’re searching for a student pilot logbook, a professional pilot logbook, or something suitable for airline applications, this 2026 guide compares the top-rated FAA-compliant pilot logbooks available on Amazon — including layout, durability, and long-term usability.
1. Jeppesen Pilot Logbook (Best Overall Professional Pilot Logbook)
The Jeppesen Pilot Logbook is widely considered the gold
standard among U.S. pilots. If you’re searching for the best professional
pilot logbook, this is the benchmark many instructors and airline pilots
recognize immediately. The layout follows traditional FAA logging structure and
provides clear separation for PIC, SIC, cross-country, and instrument time.
From a long-term perspective, this is one of the safest choices you can make. It looks appropriate during a Private Pilot checkride and equally appropriate during an ATP interview. Students often comment that it “feels official,” and that confidence matters when presenting their experience to examiners or employers.
👉 Buy on Amazon: Jeppesen Pilot Logbook
2. ASA SP-30 (Best Student Pilot Logbook)
The Aviation Supplies & Academics SP-30 is one of the
most popular student pilot logbooks used in U.S. flight schools. Its
layout is intentionally simple, making it ideal for pilots just learning how to
properly log dual received, solo, and cross-country time.
Instructors appreciate how readable and easy to total it is before endorsements and checkrides. While some pilots transition to a more detailed book later, the SP-30 excels as a clean, affordable starting point. If you’re beginning Private Pilot training and want something straightforward and FAA-compliant, this is an excellent first logbook.
👉 Buy on Amazon: ASA SP-30 Logbook
3. Gleim Pilot Logbook (Best Value Pilot Logbook)
The Gleim Publications Pilot Logbook offers strong
durability at a competitive price point. If you’re searching for a budget-friendly
pilot logbook that still looks professional, Gleim consistently performs
well.
It holds up under heavy use during instrument and commercial training, and its column structure supports long-term record keeping without feeling cluttered. For pilots who want reliability without paying a premium, this is one of the strongest value options available.
4. The Standard Pilot Logbook (Best for Airline Career
Tracking)
The Standard Pilot logbook appeals to pilots planning
long-term airline careers. Its clean, modern layout supports structured time
tracking, especially useful for those preparing for ATP minimums.
Pilots who are already thinking beyond the Private certificate often prefer this book’s organization and presentation. While it may not carry the decades-long brand recognition of Jeppesen, it functions extremely well for career-focused logging and makes a strong professional impression.
👉 Buy on Amazon:
5. Fly Girl Pilot Logbook (Best Gift & Personalized Logbook)
Fly Girl produces a distinctive logbook designed
specifically for female aviators. It remains fully FAA-compliant while offering
a more personalized aesthetic compared to traditional green or black covers.
Many buyers purchase this as a gift for new pilots, and feedback frequently highlights its quality feel and presentation. If you’re looking for a logbook that blends professional usability with individuality, this is a standout option.
👉
Buy on Amazon:
Paper vs Digital Pilot Logbooks (2026 Considerations)
While electronic logbooks like ForeFlight and LogTen Pro are
increasingly popular, many instructors still recommend that student pilots
begin with a paper logbook.
Paper logbooks:
- Reinforce
proper logging habits
- Require
manual review of totals
- Provide
tangible documentation during checkrides
Digital logbooks:
- Automate
totals
- Generate
airline-ready reports
- Offer
cloud backups
For most student pilots, starting with a traditional paper logbook builds a stronger foundational understanding before transitioning to digital tracking later in their career.
How to Choose the Best Pilot Logbook for You
If you are:
- A
brand-new student: Start with ASA SP-30.
- Planning
a long aviation career: Choose Jeppesen or The Standard Pilot.
- Budget-focused:
Gleim offers strong value.
- Buying
a gift: Fly Girl is a thoughtful option.
Your logbook will follow you for years — choose one that reflects both your current training stage and long-term aviation goals.
|
Logbook |
Best For |
Training Level |
Recognition |
Buy on Amazon |
|
Jeppesen Pilot Logbook |
Long-term career use |
PPL → ATP |
★★★★★ |
|
|
ASA SP-30 |
New student pilots |
Private |
★★★★☆ |
|
|
Gleim Pilot Logbook |
Budget-friendly durability |
PPL → Commercial |
★★★★☆ |
|
|
The Standard Pilot Logbook |
Airline-focused tracking |
Commercial → ATP |
★★★★☆ |
|
|
Fly Girl Pilot Logbook |
Gift / personalized option |
Private → Commercial |
★★★☆☆ |
* All logbooks listed meet FAA logging requirements under 14
CFR §61.51.
Conclusion
The best pilot logbook is the one that matches both your
current stage of training and your long-term aviation goals. A student pilot
just beginning Private training may prioritize simplicity and affordability,
while a career-focused pilot building time toward ATP minimums may prefer a
more structured, professional layout.
Regardless of which option you choose, remember that
accuracy, consistency, and proper endorsements matter far more than branding. A
well-maintained logbook reflects discipline and professionalism — qualities
that examiners, instructors, and future employers notice.
If you’d like a deeper breakdown of how to properly log
flight time, including PIC, SIC, cross-country, instrument time, and
endorsements under 14 CFR §61.51, visit the full guide at:
👉 https://www.cfinotebook.net/pilot-logbook
The Pilot Logbook page walks through what must be logged, what should be
logged, and common mistakes pilots make when maintaining their records.
Choose the right logbook. Log every flight correctly. And
treat it like what it is — your aviation résumé.
