News

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Hal Shevers on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Founder and longtime chairman of Sporty’s, Hal was a pioneering force in pilot training and a beloved leader in the aviation community. Hal’s life’s work shaped the landscape of general aviation for more than six decades.

For Addison Morgan, aviation has long been part of the background—but in late 2024, at a crossroads in his career, it moved to the forefront. Now nearing his Private Pilot checkride, Addison has been awarded Sporty’s $2,500 Pilot Training+ Scholarship to help him complete the final cross-country requirements of his training.

Just in time for those long summer days on the ramp and evenings at the hangar, Sporty’s has introduced a new lineup of AeroWear Polo shirts. These performance shirts combine aviation-inspired design with performance comfort that pilots are sure to appreciate.

For pilots, the airport isn’t just a destination—it’s part of who they are. Now, Sporty’s is bringing that identity home with its new Custom Taxiway Light Display, a bold, personalized display inspired by instantly recognizable airport signage.

Sporty’s is proud to announce the launch of ForeFlight Power Users Training, a new online training course developed by ForeFlight and available exclusively in Sporty’s Pilot Training platform. Designed for pilots of all experience levels, the course provides a complete, real-world guide to using ForeFlight—from initial setup and flight planning to advanced in-flight tools and digital logbook management.

A pilot’s headset is one of the most valuable pieces of gear they own; so protecting it on every flight isn’t optional:  it’s essential. That’s why the pilots at Sporty’s designed the Flight Gear® Molded Headset Case, a purpose-built solution that delivers durable, compact protection for everyday flying.

Designed as the ultimate “Plan B” in the cockpit, the PJ2 GPS adds essential navigation capabilities to its core communication role. Built-in GPS provides critical in-flight data, including groundspeed, altitude, and track, along with simplified waypoint navigation to help pilots get home in an emergency.

Sporty’s is pleased to announce the release of its Limited Edition 2026 Cessna 172 Die-Cast Model, a finely detailed 1:72 scale replica, inspired by a real aircraft with a remarkable story. This year’s model honors a 1974 Cessna Skyhawk II named Gypsy, owned by the Hurtuk family. The aircraft was selected as the winner of Sporty’s nationwide “Shrink My Cessna” contest, which invited owners to submit photos and stories of their Skyhawks.

Sporty’s Aviation Gifts is bringing a touch of aviation charm to your garden with its new Solar-Powered Aviator Garden Gnome. Positioned on its bright red airplane, this whimsical gnome features a solar-powered LED light that illuminates the airplane’s nose cone at dusk, automatically charging by day—no cords or batteries required.

From March 15 through August 15, 2026, entrants may submit their best seaplane images for a chance to win a $1,000 Sporty’s Gift Card and to have their photo featured on the cover of a future edition of the famous Sporty’s Pilot Shop Catalog. Second and third place winners will each receive a $500 Sporty’s Gift Card. Submitted photos will also be eligible for inclusion in the SPA’s annual calendar.