Eric Radtke

Zack Fox was just four years old when he had the opportunity of a lifetime to tour the flight deck of the USS Nimitz, the lead ship of the US Navy's Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. At the time, Fox’s cousin served in the US Navy aboard the Nimitz as an aircraft director (yellow shirt), responsible for the safe movement of aircraft on the flight deck and in hangar bays. During the time of Fox’s tour, the carrier was preparing for deployment in support of Operation Desert Storm. 

Now, more than 30 years later, Zack is pursuing his dream of becoming a pilot and is the latest recipient of Sporty’s $2,500 Pilot Training+ Scholarship award.

Sporty’s is proud to announce its new partnership as an authorized distributor for Champion Aerospace. This strategic collaboration will enhance Sporty’s product offerings, providing customers with access to some of the highest quality aviation oil filters and spark plugs available.

Champion Aerospace is a globally recognized brand, known for its commitment to engineering excellence and reliability in aviation products. With a legacy spanning over a century, Champion's oil filters and spark plugs are trusted by aviation professionals worldwide for their superior performance and durability.

Portable aviation oxygen systems are essential for the safety of passengers and pilots while they are enjoying the rewards of higher cruise altitudes. But these systems also take up space and can be difficult to organize, given the multitude of components--bottles, masks, cannulas, endless tubing, and more.

The Flight Gear Oxygen System Organizer from Sporty’s provides the perfect solution for organizing, storing, and using your system, with all of its accessories.

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.