Eric Radtke

If you fly regularly at a non-towered airport, radio calls quickly become second nature—a rhythm of position reports that helps everyone stay on the same page. But if you're used to the towered environment, the transition can feel a little disorienting, like you're flying blind. The good news? You’re not alone on frequency, and with a few key calls, you can confidently communicate your intentions and stay in sync and safe while operating with other traffic.

Sporty’s has introduced the newest generation of its popular Flight Gear line—six brand-new bags, designed from the ground up for today's pilots. Using customer feedback from thousands of flight hours and real-world testing at Sporty’s, these bags offer the ideal blend of thoughtful organization, modern features, and affordability.

Whether you're a student pilot heading to your first lesson or a professional pilot flying multiple legs per day, there's a Flight Gear bag built for your mission.

Sporty’s is proud to announce the launch of the Lightspeed Zulu 4, the latest generation of premium ANR aviation headsets, available now exclusively at Sporty’s. With a sleek new design, improved audio clarity, and industry-first Bluetooth capabilities, the Zulu 4 represents a bold step forward in flight deck technology—and Sporty’s customers will be the first to experience it!

As summer temperatures climb, density altitude becomes more than just a textbook concept—it becomes a real-world performance factor that can catch even experienced pilots off guard.

So what is density altitude, really?
In simple terms, density altitude is the altitude your airplane thinks it’s operating at, based on the current air density. As temperature, humidity, and elevation increase, air becomes less dense. This means your engine produces less power, your wings generate less lift, and your propeller becomes less efficient.

Sporty’s has introduced a new cockpit accessory that solves a persistent problem for pilots:  what to do with your ANR (active noise reduction) headset control box. The ANR Control Box Holder eliminates this cockpit clutter by keeping your control box securely mounted, and within arm’s reach, but conveniently out of the way.

Sporty’s has redefined the aviation flashlight. The new Flight Gear Rechargeable Smart Flashlight combines smart features, rugged construction, and purpose-built design—all in a compact, rechargeable package. Built from the ground up by pilots, for pilots, this versatile tool is ideal for everything from preflight inspections to night operations.

Sporty’s has introduced a sleek, new addition to its popular Flight Gear line: the Executive Kneeboard, a premium, all-in-one organizer, designed for pilots who demand both form and function in the cockpit.

If you’re training at a towered airport, you’ll eventually hear the phrase “cleared for the option.” It’s an ATC clearance that gives you flexibility to perform any one of several landing maneuvers: a full stop landing, touch-and-go, stop-and-go, or low approach/go-around.

Sporty’s has introduced a new solution for students looking for realistic instrument conditions:  the Instant IFR™ Clip-On Training Glasses. Designed to simulate instrument flying with unmatched comfort and convenience, these compact glasses offer a modern alternative to bulky hoods and awkward foggles.

Sporty’s is proud to announce the launch of IFR Focus, a new online publication dedicated entirely to instrument flying. Designed for active IFR pilots and pilots working toward their instrument rating, this site offers a practical, pilot-centered approach to staying sharp in the system.