Eric Radtke

Your instructor is trying to convey the importance of flying the airplane in a coordinated conditioned as indicated on the inclinometer (ball). During takeoff, and in other phases of flight, an airplane tends to yaw to the left due to several aerodynamic factors. Pilots counter these forces, known as "left-turning tendencies," by applying right rudder hence your instructor saying, “more right rudder.”

You do not need a pilot’s license to appreciate Sporty’s new Pilot Wings Bags, a sophisticated and stylish line of aviation-inspired travel bags. Every bag in this collection is a nod to the aviation spirit, featuring a custom lining adorned with airplane and pilot wing silhouettes, making each bag a perfect companion for the aviation enthusiast. Constructed from heavy-duty canvas and accented with premium vegan leather that incorporates our unique Pilot Wings design, these bags are not only stylish, but also durable.

Sporty’s is proud to announce the latest addition to its popular Flight Gear product line:  the iPad Organizer Kneeboard. The Flight Gear iPad Organizer Kneeboard was designed with the modern pilot in mind, offering a perfect blend of functionality and convenience. This all-in-one organizer features multiple compartments and pockets, allowing pilots to keep their iPad EFBs, and other essential items, neatly arranged and easily accessible during flight.

Sporty’s Wright Bros. Collection, known for its high-quality historical aviation products, is excited to announce a strategic rebranding and a fresh new focus on aviation-themed gifts under the new banner Sporty’s Aviation Gifts. This transition reflects our commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and expansion of our product line to include a wider range of unique, aviation-inspired items that are perfect for enthusiasts and gift-givers alike.

Airspace is divided into Controlled, Uncontrolled, Special Use and Other. Airspace designation is determined by considering the density of aircraft, the types of operations, the level of safety required, and the national and public interest. Controlled airspace is generally where ATC service is provided. There are different requirements if the flight is operated under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) or Visual Flight Rules (VFR). For example, a pilot flying IFR in controlled airspace will have to file an IFR flight plan and receive an ATC clearance. For VFR flight, controlled airspace means increased cloud clearance and visibility requirements.  For the VFR pilot flying in B, C, and D airspace, there are communication and/or clearance requirements.

Take your post-flight tradition to the next level with Sporty’s new Captain’s Debriefing Shot Glass Gift Set. Designed to commemorate the adventures and accomplishments of aviators, this unique collection is the perfect way to celebrate successful flights, toast future journeys, and enjoy the camaraderie of the aviation community.

The Captain’s Debriefing Shot Glass Gift Set includes four glasses, each cleverly labeled with a different phase of flight:  Departure, Enroute, Arrival and Debrief.

Sporty’s is proud to announce the launch of its innovative Flight Gear Emergency Backup Battery, designed to enhance flight deck safety by providing backup power for your electronic flight bag (iPad/iPhone) and other portable devices. This reliable backup battery is sure to provide pilots with the peace of mind that they will never run out of battery power when it is needed most.

The Flight Gear Emergency Backup Battery delivers rapid charging capabilities in a compact design, making it an ideal travel companion.

Mnemonic acronyms are wonderful mechanisms for condensing complex terms, phrases or lists into something more manageable to commit to memory.  Aviation has its fair share of clever—and sometimes silly—recall devices, which stands to reason when there is critically important information that should be committed to memory.

Speaking of clever and silly, "ATOMATOFLAMES" is a mnemonic acronym used to help pilots remember the critical components required for aircraft airworthiness for daytime flight in visual (VFR) conditions. Each letter in ATOMATOFLAMES corresponds to a specific item that must be operational before takeoff.  This equipment list can be found in § 91.205.

Pilots and aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the new Fish Finder T-Shirt from Sporty’s, a design that combines humor with comfort and style. Featuring a " Got’em on the Fish Finder " banner, this T-shirt is sure to turn heads and spark conversations wherever you go. In addition to its comedic value, the T-shirt is a great way to connect with fellow aviators. Whether you're a pilot looking to showcase your love for flying or an aviation enthusiast seeking a conversation-starter piece, the Fish Finder T-Shirt is the perfect addition to your wardrobe. 

Sporty’s is proud to introduce the Flight Gear Pull-Down Tie-Down Kit—the simple and reliable solution for keeping your aircraft secure.  Featuring an innovative rope-ratcheting system, which allows for quick and effortless tightening and release, this device is designed with the pilot in mind. Simply attach one of the coated hooks to the aircraft and the other hook to the tie-down anchor point. Then, with very little effort, pull the rope through the automatic ratcheting system to secure the aircraft. When you are ready to fly, use the quick-release trigger on the ratcheting mechanism to release the ropes. It is that simple and quick, with no complicated knots or manual ratcheting required.