Eric Radtke

Commemorate Your Flying Milestones with Sporty’s Challenge Coin Gift Set

Challenge coins serve as a symbol of pride, recognition, and membership, with a rich history that can be traced back to ancient Rome, the Renaissance, and World War I. Now, pilots can celebrate their flying milestones with this timeless Challenge Coin Gift Set from Sporty’s.

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Posted in News

What is the difference between a slip and a skid?

In aviation, a slipping turn and a skidding turn are both uncoordinated flight conditions that should be avoided. They occur when an aircraft's rate of turn does not match its bank angle. In a correctly executed turn, the horizontal component of lift should be equal and opposite to the centrifugal force.

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Posted in Ask a CFI

Introducing the Pilot Wings Belt from Sporty’s

Sporty’s is proud to announce the launch of the adjustable Pilot Wings Belt, designed specifically for the modern aviator. Combining functionality and style with precision adjustability, this belt is bound to become an essential accessory for pilots and aviation enthusiasts.

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Posted in News

Sporty’s Aviation Gifts Releases 2025 Limited Edition Cirrus SR22-G6 Turbo Die-Cast Model

Sporty’s Aviation Gifts is thrilled to announce the release of the 2025 Limited Edition Cirrus SR22-G6 Turbo Die-Cast Model. This meticulously crafted, 1:72 scale model is a must-have for aviation enthusiasts and collectors alike, celebrating one of the most iconic general aviation aircraft of the modern era.

 

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Posted in News

Why is it important to check NOTAMs before a flight?

During preflight planning, it is imperative to check the Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) as these notices are considered essential to flight safety and contain information not known sufficiently in advance to publicize by other means. NOTAMs, as well as other current information pertinent to a flight, are available from a variety of sources, including the FAA NOTAM website, Flight Service and in mobile flight planning apps.

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Posted in Ask a CFI

Zack Fox Earns Sporty’s Pilot Training+ Scholarship

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.

 

 

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Sporty’s Announces Partnership as New Distributor for Champion Aerospace

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.

 

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Posted in News

Flight Gear Oxygen System Organizer from Sporty’s

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.

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Posted in News

Why is my instructor always asking for "more right rudder"?

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.”

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Posted in Ask a CFI

Introducing the Pilot Wings Travel Bag Collection from Sporty’s

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.

 

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Posted in News

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