Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.IGC
File Type
International Gliding Commission Flight Data File
Category
Data
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .igc file format
The IGC file format is a standardized data format used primarily in the aviation industry, specifically for gliding, paragliding, and hang gliding. It was developed by the International Gliding Commission (IGC) to provide a secure and uniform method for recording flight data from GNSS (Global Navig…
File extension
.IGC
File type
International Gliding Commission Flight Data File
Category
Data
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .igc file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .igc.
- Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
- Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.
What is a .igc file?
File extension details and usage information
The IGC file format is a standardized data format used primarily in the aviation industry, specifically for gliding, paragliding, and hang gliding. It was developed by the International Gliding Commission (IGC) to provide a secure and uniform method for recording flight data from GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) flight recorders. These files contain a chronological log of a flight, including GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude), pressure altitude, GNSS altitude, and timestamps. One of the most critical features of the IGC format is its security mechanism; it often includes a digital signature, known as a G-record, to ensure that the flight data has not been tampered with after the flight. This security is essential for validating world records, badges, and competition results within the soaring community. Beyond simple tracking, IGC files can store metadata about the pilot, the aircraft, and specific task declarations. They are widely used by flight analysis software to reconstruct flight paths in 3D, analyze thermalling performance, and verify that pilots have successfully rounded specific waypoints during a cross-country task. The format remains the global standard for flight verification in non-powered or foot-launched aviation.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .igc files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .igc files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .igc file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.
- Use the original software that created the file when possible.
- Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
- Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
- If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .igc file.
Why can't I open a .igc file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .igc format.
Incorrect extension
The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.
Corrupted file
The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.
Outdated app
Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about .igc files
To open a .igc file, use software that supports this file format.
- SeeYou
- GPSDump
- Google Earth Pro
- LK8000
- Cumulus
Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.
- Verify that the file extension is correct.
- Install or update compatible software.
- Try another application that supports this format.
- Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.
A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.
File safety tips
Use caution with unknown files
Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .igc file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.