Navigation

Customer Service

About Sporty's

Video Downloads

Sporty’s offers flexibility and mobility in flight training with our new collection of downloadable videos. We’ve made it easy to watch these informative programs just about anywhere. Videos are presented at 640 x 480 resolution (near-DVD quality,) and can be downloaded quickly over a broadband connection in under an hour. Once downloaded, the file is yours to keep and view as many times as you like.

Would you prefer the DVD instead?

How it Works
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Purchased Downloads

Limited Time Only! Save 25% when you buy 4 or more from the “What You Should Know” and “Air Facts” series.

Practical Airmanship

Descent & Landing (download)

Descent & Landing (download)

Examines both VFR and IFR arrival procedures and provides hints to help make this critical phase of flight go smoothly. Learn to fly defensively in the pattern and to manage both the aircraft and the flight environment - from dealing with changing winds to navigating the intricacies of ATC. Length approx. 24 minutes.
Climb & Cruise (download)

Climb & Cruise (download)

Starts at 1000′ AGL and continues through the en route phase of flight. See how instrument approaches can improve your departures and how to estimate in-flight visibility quickly, easily and accurately. Covering both VFR and IFR flying, the techniques covered in this title will help you manage the en route chores that keep you ahead of the airplane. Length approx. 24 minutes.
Departing (download)

Departing (download)

You’ll learn the many factors contributing to a successful departure and (how to manage each), why rotation speed in your airplane’s POH is best used as a general guideline and much more. Learn how to plan your departures like the pros. Length approx. 22 minutes.
Preflight Tips (download)

Preflight Tips (download)

Flying is more challenging than most pilots’ preflight inspections would indicate. You’ll learn what to look for, why each item is important and the consequences of inattention to any. Along the way, you’ll also pick up valuable tips, such as how to plan for an inaccurate winds aloft forecast. Length approx. 25 minutes.

Advanced Equipment

Autopilots (download)

Autopilots (download)

Proper use of the autopilot not only provides an extra margin of safety in instrument conditions, it can actually improve your own flying skills. And the increasing complexity and integration between the autopilot and on-board navigation equipment make a thorough checkout imperative. Examines the finer points of flying with the autopilot and offers basic operating tips for smooth, safe operation. Length approx. 33 minutes.
Turbochargers & Flight Level Flying (download)

Turbochargers & Flight Level Flying (download)

The additional power of a turbocharged airplane means altitudes of FL180 and above are suddenly available. Examine the mechanics of the turbocharger system as well as the engine management considerations that follow.
Multiengine (download)

Multiengine (download)

Examines ways to manage the risks inherent to flying a twin. Whether you currently operate a multiengine airplane or are just getting your multiengine rating this is an excellent video.
High Performance Single Engine (download)

High Performance Single Engine (download)

Learn how to handle the additional duties and distractions that come with a high performance, complex aircraft.

Flying Conditions & Terrain

IFR in the Eastern Mountains (download)

IFR in the Eastern Mountains (download)

Mention mountain flying and most pilots think of the Rockies, but the eastern half of the USA has its share of high terrain, and in some respects it’s even more challenging.
Snow & Ice Covered Airports (download)

Snow & Ice Covered Airports (download)

Collins shares his experience for the safe operation of aircraft on and around snow and ice covered airports. You’ll learn how snow and ice affect the go/no-go decision, proper preheating methods, correct techniques for aircraft control, how to deal with snow drifts, and much more. Length approx. 20 minutes.
Mountain Flying (download)

Mountain Flying (download)

Covers safe flying in mountainous terrain and examines additional factors such as route planning, canyons, density altitude, wind, up and downdrafts, mountain weather plus much more.

Flying Weather

Turbulence (download)

Turbulence (download)

Turbulence - Familiarity with turbulence, its causes and its effects on the aircraft can mean the difference between an enjoyable flight and an uncomfortable on-or worse. Explains the conditions and weather phenomena likely to produce turbulence and how to "read" clouds for clues. Also covers the effects of turbulence on aircraft structural limits, maneuvering speed (V_A), proper pilot technique during turbulence and much more. Length approx. 31 minutes.
Thunderstorms (download)

Thunderstorms (download)

Thunderstorms - Thunderstorms and their associated weather present a unique challenge for all flight. In-flight footage from several flights demonstrates convective weather and investigates available aids and weather advisories. Also, examines how reports and forecasts relate to actual conditions, important decision-making considerations and strategies for flying with-and without-weather avoidance equipment. Length approx. 22 minutes.
Lows (download)

Lows (download)

Lows - Covers all elements associated with lows, including snow, freezing rain, sleet and thundershowers. Low pressure systems and their associated weather are quite often the element(s) that require the most attention when planning a flight. Uses actual in-flight footage and sophisticated 3-D computer graphics to discuss the formation, development and tracks of low pressure areas and how they affect flight. Length approx. 23 minutes.
Icing (download)

Icing (download)

Icing - Icing conditions can and do exist throughout the year across most of the USA. Explains weather phenomena likely to produce ice and how to avoid those areas through careful preflight planning. Examines icing forecasts/reports, the go/no-go decision, the use of anti- and de-icing equipment or (if all else fails) how to deal with a plane-load of ice. Length approx. 25 minutes.
Frontal Weather (download)

Frontal Weather (download)

Frontal Weather - Examines the practical aspects of safely operating in and around frontal weather. Avoids much of the technical data and instead, focuses on the real-world characteristics of fronts. Covers all types of fronts, interpreting forecasts and depictions, weather radar, Stormscope, flight planning tips, seasonal variations, the effects of atmospheric pressure changes and much more. Greatly expands on the fundamental weather information you received when first obtaining your pilot certificate. Length approx. 28 minutes.

GPS Techniques

GPS En Route (download)

GPS En Route (download)

GPS En Route—Now completely revised, this informative program helps you get the most out of your GPS—whether hand-held or panel mount. Collins emphasizes the use of flight plans, and shows how they can make you more efficient, especially when dealing with busy airspace, weather and TFRs. He also introduces T-routes, the domestic low altitude RNAV routes, and explains what they can do for you. VNAV is also covered, and you’ll see how this vertical navigation tool can save you valuable time in the cockpit. Finally, Collins shares his own unique tips for using GPS to improve your odds in an emergency. Length approx. 36 minutes.
GPS Approaches (download)

GPS Approaches (download)

GPS Approaches—All new 5th edition! Ride along as Richard L. Collins shows you how to master ever-changing GPS approaches. In the must-see section on WAAS approaches, he explains what exactly a WAAS approach is, and how it offers ILS-like vertical guidance and lower minimums to hundreds of airports. He also shows the differences between the new LNAV/VNAV and LPV approaches and a traditional ILS. You’ll also learn to traps to watch out for on the new WAAS approach charts. Length approx. 49 minutes.

IFR Risk Management

Datalink Weather (download)

Datalink Weather (download)

Datalink Weather—The ability to view Nexrad radar imagery and text weather reports on multi-function displays (MFDs) is one of the most exciting innovations to come to your instrument panel in decades. This program explains the differences between uplink and downlink technologies, and how to use datalink weather for strategic weather avoidance. Length approx. 20 minutes.
IFR Crew of One (download)

IFR Crew of One (download)

IFR Crew of One—Crew Resource Management (CRM) isn’t just for two pilot airplanes. Here Collins addresses the various phases of IFR flight and how they can best be handled when acting as sole pilot of an aircraft. Includes tips on how and when to use your autopilot. Length approx. 25 minutes.
Understanding ATC - An Instrument Pilot's Perspective (download)

Understanding ATC - An Instrument Pilot's Perspective (download)

Take an inside look at Air Traffic Control and learn how to take full advantage of the services provided by ATC to make IFR flights smoother and safer. Go behind the scenes of Indianapolis Center and Syracuse TRACON to meet the personnel and discover the equipment that make up the most modern and efficient ATC system in the world. This program combines Collins years of flying experience with the knowledge and insight of veteran Washington Center controller, Embry-Riddle graduate and CFI-I Drew Kassal. Together they provide a unique perspective on real-world operations in US airspace. Learn what controllers expect from pilots operating in the IFR system and what you should expect from all phases of flight. Length approx. 25 minutes.
IFR Weather Briefing (download)

IFR Weather Briefing (download)

IFR Weather Briefing—This program explores several weather briefing options that allow you to both prepare and develop a strategy to safely complete an IFR flight. Get the most out of your preflight weather briefing. Length approx. 26 minutes.

Instrument Flying Tips

Night IFR (download)

Night IFR (download)

Night IFR - Examines how darkness affects each phase of night IFR and offers strategies to improve the safety of these flights. Special equipment, charts, approaches, autopilots, GPS and avionics are all discussed as well as human factors. A little extra effort and training can help make every night IFR flight successful. Length approx. 28 minutes.
Self-Examination of IFR Proficiency (download)

Self-Examination of IFR Proficiency (download)

Self-Examination of IFR Proficiency - Learn how to administer your own "self-exam" to monitor your skills. Collins draws on decades of experience to illustrate the hazards of being too confident in your abilities. He then shows how to develop a scoring system to determine whether you are really ready for your next IFR flight or when it may be time for a refresher. Offers a wealth of advice and encourages the viewer to "score" themselves on each flight. Length approx. 57 minutes.
Instrument Proficiency Check (download)

Instrument Proficiency Check (download)

Instrument Proficiency Check - Keeping current and staying proficient are two very different things, so a good Instrument Proficiency Check is critical. Discusses many common pitfalls of IFR flight and demonstrates how to avoid them by getting the IPC you deserve. Provides a great review of basic currency rules, fuel and alternative minimums, etc. Length approx. 26 minutes.
Non-Precision Approaches (download)

Non-Precision Approaches (download)

Non-Precision Approaches - Unlike an ILS, a non-precision approach doesn't provide vertical guidance, so the pressure on the pilot increases significantly. Managing the risks on non-precision approaches is, for the most part, simply a matter of planning ahead and being aware of any special requirements on the approach. Step-downs, dog-legs, equipment requirements and more are all addressed. Length approx. 26 minutes.
ILS Approaches (download)

ILS Approaches (download)

ILS Approaches - Illustrates the finer points of flying ILS approaches. Collins points out factors that affect ILS approaches such as headwinds, tailwinds, visibility, on-board equipment, flying technique and more. See how a little advanced planning makes it easy to stay ahead of the airplane and makes the entire approach and landing or missed approach go smoothly. Length approx. 30 minutes.
IFR Strategies (download)

IFR Strategies (download)

IFR Strategies - In addition to hand/eye coordination, instrument flying is also a mental exercise. Collins illustrates how to develop your own IFR strategies and tactics so you can manage the dynamic IFR environment like a pro. Perfect for new IFR students and an excellent refresher. Length approx. 27 minutes.

The Prepared Pilot

Flight Review (download)

Flight Review (download)

The regulations state that a pilot must complete a flight review at least every two years, and that it must consist of an hour of ground and an hour of flight instruction. Good pilots go beyond the rule and seek a review that explores areas which relate to the actual type of flying done. Examines flight reviews and looks at ways to make them more valuable. Length approx. 22 minutes.
Night Flying (download)

Night Flying (download)

Nighttime is a rewarding (yet demanding) time to fly and the record has shown that risk increases dramatically after the sun goes down. Explores the proper techniques of night flying and how to manage the risks, both VFR and IFR. Length approx. 24 minutes.
Emergencies (download)

Emergencies (download)

Addresses the best possible strategies to deal with an in-flight emergency – vacuum and electrical problems, engine failures, smoke in the cockpit and more. Learn what the emergency checklists don’t tell you. Also, how to be prepared for surprises and what you can do to prevent an emergency. Length approx. 23 minutes.
Personal Minimums (download)

Personal Minimums (download)

Every element of every flight (weather, personal health, aircraft condition, recent experience, pressure to get to a destination, etc.) influences the go/no-go decision and forces the pilot to ask, “Do today’s conditions meet my standards?” Collins explores these factors and discusses how to develop your own set of rules to make every flight safer and more enjoyable. Length approx. 29 minutes.
Staying Ahead of the Airplane (download)

Staying Ahead of the Airplane (download)

From day one of flight training, pilots are told to “stay ahead” of the airplane, but what does this mean exactly? In this thought-provoking new program, Richard L. Collins examines situations where pilots are most likely to “get behind” the airplane, triggering a chain of events that could lead to an accident or incident. Collins looks at real-world IFR and VFR scenarios involving weather, fuel management, maneuvering flight, terrain awareness, stall/spin events, emergencies, approaches and takeoffs and landings – areas that have proven to cause problems for pilots of all levels. See what, when and why things went wrong in each example and learn to think ahead and stay ahead of the airplane to keep your flights safely on course. Length approx. 44 minutes.