PIREPs

Pilots can be some of the hardest people to buy for. Finding something unique and different that already isn’t on their shelf can be extremely difficult. This year has been filled with a ton of new and innovative products, so the odds will be in your favor if you stick to these top 5 gifts introduced this year. The best part about this list is that 4 of the 5 are under $50.  

Pilots always need reliable, practical gear—and having a trusty utility tool in the cockpit is no exception. You never know when you’ll need it, whether it’s cutting tie-down rope, tightening a loose screw, or opening a can of oil.
With so many options on the market, we at Sporty’s focus on selecting tools specifically suited for aviators. These five essentials are must-haves for tackling the unexpected in the air or on the ground.

The iPad has transformed aviation, replacing stacks of paper charts and bulky materials with streamlined digital tools like ForeFlight. Recognizing its impact early on, Sporty’s saw how essential the iPad would become for pilots. However, one limitation of this revolutionary tool remains—battery life. No matter how advanced each new iPad model gets, long flights and constant use can drain your device, potentially leaving you without critical information mid-flight.

Do you need that last minute gift for the pilot on your list?  These are the top 5 trending gifts for 2024.  They are sure to put a smile on the face of the pilot on your list.

A headset is always a great gift idea for a pilot—it's one of the few products that gets used on every single flight. But with so many options (and so much jargon), choosing the right one can be a challenge. Here's a look at what's hot right now, and our suggestions for some smart holiday shopping.

Every pilot needs a headset, but every pilot has different wants and needs when it comes to hearing protection. To help you find the perfect headset, Sporty's has created this series of three videos covering the most popular options. Whether you're looking for the best overall headset, the best value ANR headset, or the best passive headset, we'll show you what to look for and offer tips for our favorite models. 

A headset is one of the most important investments a pilot will ever make, and not simply because of the expense. A quality aviation headset can protect your hearing, reduce fatigue, and even improve flight safety. That's why Sporty's offers a variety of tools and resources to make your next headset purchase fast, easy and affordable. We are proud to be the #1 headset retailer in aviation.

When looking at student pilot headsets, the first thing to consider is your budget. The saying, “You get what you pay for” is pretty accurate when it comes to aviation headsets. Many student pilots are on a tight budget. This has them looking towards less expensive passive headsets. Most pilots will start out with one of these headsets, then graduate to an active noise canceling headset once they get their license. Their original passive headset then becomes a passenger headset.

Selecting the right aviation headset is a big decision for any pilot, impacting comfort, clarity, and even safety during flight. A well-designed headset not only ensures clear communication with air traffic control and other pilots but also provides crucial noise reduction, which helps minimize distractions and fatigue. Whether you’re flying short routes or a cross-country flight, the right headset can make all the difference in the cockpit. 

Winter flying is quickly approaching, which means it’s time to layer up and prepare for those colder flights. Not every jacket is suitable for the cockpit, but that’s where we come in—let Sporty’s help you pick the right one for you. We’ll break down some of the most popular jackets we sell, focusing on weight, fit, durability, weather resistance, and warmth.