PIREPs

Flying IFR can be stressful for some pilots. For many of us, the IFR muscle is one that we don’t exercise too often. But just like in any stressful activity, having the right gear can help alleviate some of the pressure. These are the five items that I don’t get an IFR clearance without. 

As 2024 comes to a close, Sporty’s is thrilled to showcase the year’s most innovative and in-demand products. These top picks highlight cutting-edge technology, enhanced functionality, and thoughtful designs. Sporty’s 2024 Gear of the Year is sure to inspire, from groundbreaking tools for pilot training to must-have accessories for every flight deck, so get ready to explore these industry-leading essentials. 

One of the many pre-flight tasks pilots perform on aircraft involves fuel, and it’s not just confirming you have enough for your flight and required reserve. Specifically, pilots need to inspect the fuel to make sure it’s the right type and that it is free from contaminants. That is where a fuel tester comes into play.

As pilots here at Sporty’s, we know your passion for aviation doesn't stay at the airport and how important it is to wear your love for aviation wherever you go. Finding shirts that make this statement without overcomplicating your look is the key to displaying your love for flying without compromising comfort. From t-shirts to polos, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered (literally). Here are the top 5 shirts at Sporty's for pilots and aviation enthusiasts.

Flying at night is amazing. Fewer people fly at night so there is much less traffic to deal with. The air is often smoother than during the day and the visibility is even better. Seeing city lights from a small airplane ranks high on the must-do list for many a land lover. 

Pilots can be some of the hardest people to buy for. Finding something unique and different that already isn’t on their shelf can be extremely difficult. This year has been filled with a ton of new and innovative products, so the odds will be in your favor if you stick to these top 5 gifts introduced this year. The best part about this list is that 4 of the 5 are under $50.  

Pilots always need reliable, practical gear—and having a trusty utility tool in the cockpit is no exception. You never know when you’ll need it, whether it’s cutting tie-down rope, tightening a loose screw, or opening a can of oil.
With so many options on the market, we at Sporty’s focus on selecting tools specifically suited for aviators. These five essentials are must-haves for tackling the unexpected in the air or on the ground.

The iPad has transformed aviation, replacing stacks of paper charts and bulky materials with streamlined digital tools like ForeFlight. Recognizing its impact early on, Sporty’s saw how essential the iPad would become for pilots. However, one limitation of this revolutionary tool remains—battery life. No matter how advanced each new iPad model gets, long flights and constant use can drain your device, potentially leaving you without critical information mid-flight.

Do you need that last minute gift for the pilot on your list?  These are the top 5 trending gifts for 2024.  They are sure to put a smile on the face of the pilot on your list.

A headset is always a great gift idea for a pilot—it's one of the few products that gets used on every single flight. But with so many options (and so much jargon), choosing the right one can be a challenge. Here's a look at what's hot right now, and our suggestions for some smart holiday shopping.