Error on updating Ipad Air 2 from Ios 9.3.2 to newest version (14.7.1)

Whether or not you are able to update your iPad to a newer version of iOS/iPadOS will be dictated by your iPad model - and the currently installed version of iOS. You can find this information here:

Settings > General > About

Not sure which iPad you have? Identify your iPad model.

Here is a list of the highest version of iOS supported by the older models of iPad (for simplicity - “generations” are shortened to a number) that are restricted in their ability to be updated:

iPad1 - iOS 5.1.1

iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 - iOS 9.3.5 (WiFi Only models), iOS 9.3.6 (WiFi & Cellular)

iPad4 - iOS 10.3.3 (WiFi Only), iOS 10.3.4 (WiFi & Cellular)

iPad Air1, iPad mini2 and iPad mini3 - iOS 12.5.4

Newer models, not appearing in this list, are all able to be updated to the current version, iPadOS 14.7.1

If your iPad is capable of being updated to a more recent version of iOS/iPadOS than is currently installed, these support pages outline both the available methods by which the update can be performed - and troubleshooting should you experience difficulties:

Update your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support

If you can't update or restore your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch – Apple Support

If your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch won’t update - Apple Support

iOS update and restore errors – Apple Support

Be aware that your iPad may be too far behind the current version to be updated directly from iPad settings. As such, you will likely need to use a computer to perform the update. You will need access to either a PC (with iTunes installed) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of MacOS). Ensure that your installed version of iTunes has been updated to the most recent version; the essential device drivers are included.

Download and use iTunes for Windows – Apple Support

Update to the latest version of iTunes – Apple Support

Update software on iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in iTunes on PC - Apple Support

You should note that for your iPad to install an available update, its battery must be charged to at least 50% capacity - and/or be connected to its Power Adapter. Similarly, the iPad can only be updated over a standard WiFi connection - or be updated by a PC or Mac using iTunes or Finder - over a USB connection.

I am wondering if your iPad Air 2 is just waaaay too far behind in iOS/iPadOS upgrades/updates to even get to iPadOS 14.7.1.

Your iPad is 5 versions behind in OS versions, soon to be 6.

Is your iTunes version up to date?

Welcome, Tazzie70, to Apple Support Communities!

It has been a very long time since I had an iPad that ran iOS 9 (it was an iPad 3rd gen.—the last with the 30-pin connector, and the first Retina display), but I don’t remember having to use iTunes to update.

Could you, please, let us know what your iPad says under Settings -> General -> About (or wherever this information on your iPad is found): specifically, the exact Model Name, and Software Version.

I’m not certain I want to fully trust what iTunes is reporting.

If using a Windows PC, make sure to, temporarily, diable any antivirus software present before you begin with the iTunes/iOS upgrade/update procedures.