Yes, i always put my devices in airplane mode. I use panel antennas, so that's not it. It is just weird. Its not just a few feet either, it is almost double. It did the same thing with the stock antennas and the windsurfers.Odd indeed. Have you put both devices in airplane mode to avoid any possible RF interference? If thats not it, the only thing I can think off is that for some reason the ipad actually works like a reflector, just as those windsurfer "boosters". If you want to keep testing this and find out the possible cause, try removing the device from the transmitter stand, like having a friend hold it for you or something.