File Extension Database

Open IGC File

The International Gliding Commission (IGC) files are used for a range of applications related to gliding sports, particularly for tracking flight data. These files, typically characterized by the .IGC extension, contain digitized data of altitude and geographic coordinates. In this article, we'll delve into the possible formats and ways to open and use IGC file extensions.

Use of IGC Files in Aviation

IGC files primarily serve in the field of aviation, particularly in soaring or gliding sports. Data stored in these files include comprehensive in-flight parameters like speed and rise/drop rates, geographical coordinates, and timestamps. Pilots and logistics teams use this information to assess flight performance, improve piloting techniques, and plan optimized flying routes. (FAI)

Opening IGC Files

Opening IGC files requires specific software such as SeeYou, GPSDump, or Garmin MapSource. While these software offer specialized tools for extensive flight data analysis, simpler applications like text editors (Ex: Notepad++ on Windows or TextEdit on Mac) can also open ICG files. This is because IGC files are essentially text files structured in a unique way. (Naviter) (GPSDump)

Converting IGC Files

An IGC file can be converted into other formats such as KML files for use in Google Earth for visual flight route depiction. Various online platforms offer conversion tools, such as GPS Visualizer. This is especially useful for visualizing the flight path and examining aerial views of the journey. (GPS Visualizer)

IGC Files in Other Applications

While the use of IGC files is predominantly in the field of aviation, it has found sporadic application in other fields as well. For instance, it is used in adventure sports like paragliding and hang gliding, where tracking is necessary. However, their use in these areas is still largely limited and not as widespread as in soaring. (Paragliding Forum)

IGC File Important Information

IGC files often contain sensitive data crucial for flight planning and competition scoring. Therefore, proper storage and management of these files should be a priority. Also, while opening and reading IGC files can be accomplished with basic text editors, understanding the data requires knowledge of the IGC file structure. Therefore, for comprehensive analysis and utilization, specialized software should preferably be used.

How Can I Open IGC File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open IGC file is to find a IGC file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a IGC file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open IGC file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as IGC file opener then try to search online for "IGC viewer", "application to open IGC file" or "open IGC file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open IGC file

How Can I Open IGC File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a IGC file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a IGC file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with IGC file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as IGC file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open IGC file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open IGC file then try to search for "IGC viewer", "application to open IGC file" or "read IGC file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read IGC file

How Can I Open IGC File on Android

If you downloaded a IGC file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded IGC file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "IGC".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "IGC viewer", "IGC file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open IGC File on iPhone or iPad

To open IGC File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the IGC file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "IGC". This way you can find apps which can open IGC files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "IGC viewer" or "IGC file" online in your favorite search engine.

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