Hi,
The msg is long but there are a lot of details.

I simply can't run this app on android with a gamepad unless I also have a kyb, mouse AND an available finger for the touchscreen.

The hardware that works everyplace else in my house, even my kitchen, doesn't work in the app. I have specific reasons for needing to use a gamepad/controller.

What I have:
SimplePlanes on Nvidia K1 Tablet
Nvidia gamepad
Airmouse mini keyboard w/trackpad
Logitech K400 kyb w/trackpad
HDMI into a tv
My finger when it's available.

What's happening:
Neither the gamepad nor the mini keyboard work 100%. Both work in some parts of the app but neither work in all. I have to use my finger.

Gamepad symptoms:
Doesn't work anywhere outside of Controller Config and flying the air craft.
Can't even select the start button.
Gamepad responds as expected in config screen.
After exiting config, nothing on the gamepad works. Need to use kyb to back out and un-pause.
The gamepad only works when flying. I can pause but I can't navigate to a button to change the weather or location etc. Need the kyb. and my finger.

Keyb/Trackpad symptoms:
Can select menu items but cannot select anything in the build screen. Can't paint, spin or change the aircraft.
I can't even select the start button to get to the airport. I have to use touchscreen.
Once I'm flying the kyb responds just like a keyb (enough) with all the keys as configured.

So look, here's my thought: If I can't fix this by changing some setting that I overlooked, how about just answering 1 question.
Somebody. Anybody. Beuller?
Can I make a mod* to do what I need to do?

*Of course, making a mod will require me to
1. Figure out what a mod actually is.
2. Find out if these alleged mods can "do stuff" that I need done.
3. Figure out what language these alleged mods speak.
5. Research "Unity" whatever the hell that is.
6. Learn the language. Write bad code.
Debug and weep
All that will take me a year. Literally.

All I want to do is fly around with a controller I can physically manage.
I don't need bullets. I don't need cheats. I don't want any more than a single point of control and a P-51 for an hour or two or all day. That plane is awesome.