The Solution:
A Mobile-Friendly, All-in-One Web App

Linden Services proposed Plogbook, a unified web-based platform to replace TakeFlight's outdated systems. Designed as a SaaS solution, Plogbook would enable members to book aircraft, log flights, record defects, and make payments—all from their mobile devices.

Through a collaborative, phased approach, Linden worked closely with TakeFlight to define core objectives:

• Replace the legacy flight logging system with a modern, accessible web app
• Integrate booking and payment functionalities to eliminate third-party costs
• Provide real-time METAR weather data for nearby airfields
• Ensure an intuitive user experience requiring minimal training
• Build a scalable platform for future growth and broader aviation use

Project Highlights:

• 6-month delivery for the first version, launched in 2018
• Built with Ruby on Rails, SQL database, and Redis for caching
• Phased rollout: Phase 1 replaced flight logging, Phase 2 added booking, and Phase 3 integrated online payments
• Overnight switch for flight logging, with testing periods for booking and payment features
• Seamless integration with METAR weather data for real-time airfield conditions
• Intuitive design to minimize training for flying club members
• Training and support provided to TakeFlight admins, including email instructions and issue resolution
• Saved TakeFlight $350/month by eliminating third-party booking software
• Scalable SaaS model now serving flying clubs, syndicates, and schools

The Result:

Linden implemented Plogbook in three phases, starting with an overnight switch to replace the legacy flight logging system. Training and clear email instructions empowered TakeFlight admins to onboard members smoothly, while the intuitive design ensured members adopted the platform with minimal guidance.

Phases 2 and 3 introduced booking and payment features, with testing periods to ensure reliability before retiring the old systems. The impact was transformative: Plogbook now supports 247 active users, manages 16 aircraft, and has logged 5,969 flights, totaling 5,676 flight hours.

It's processed 653 student records and 355 defect logs, streamlining operations for TakeFlight. By consolidating all functionalities into one platform, Plogbook saved TakeFlight $350/month in third-party costs and enhanced member convenience, encouraging more frequent flying.