AFT File

What are AFT files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening an AFT file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your AFT files.

What is an AFT file?

An .AFT file is an ABC FlowCharter Template file.

An ABC FlowCharter Template file is a document used by ABC FlowCharter (later iGrafx FlowCharter), a tool for creating flowcharts and process diagrams. Templates define the layout, styles, default shapes, text and formatting that new diagrams use, so that several diagrams in an organization share a consistent appearance and structure.

These template files are created by ABC FlowCharter or its successor iGrafx FlowCharter when you save a customized diagram as a template or choose a built-in template. Once made, templates are used as the starting point for new charts or diagrams: instead of beginning from scratch, you open or apply a template, then build your chart using the predefined settings and elements.

Inside the .AFT file is a proprietary binary structure specific to ABC/iGrafx FlowCharter. It includes definitions for page size, shape palettes, connector styles, fonts, colors, symbol positions and probably placeholders for titles or other repeated items. Files of this type are recognized, for example, by containing the ASCII strings ".AFP" and ".AFT" and a specific byte sequence near the start, such as the bytes 0x0018004A464F…Z at offset 0.

How to open AFT files

Important: Different programs may use files with the AFT file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your AFT file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested six different AFT openers which you will find listed below.

Last updated: August 17, 2026

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of AFT files. Remember, different programs may use AFT files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

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File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about AFT file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.