Sporty's PIREPs

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.

AirVenture, held annually in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is the world's largest aviation celebration and is often considered a must-attend event for pilots from all backgrounds. Whether you're a seasoned aviator or just starting your journey in the world of aviation, Airventure is the place to be in late July. If you are like me, the weeks preceding Oshkosh seem to drag on forever. While we can’t alter the space-time continuum to get AirVenture here sooner, we can embrace our inner avgeek to fully immerse ourselves in pre-KOSH activities. Here are six things you can do to get your KOSH fix pre-AirVenture. 

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.

Flight Outfitters made quite a splash in 2015 when it launched as a new aviation brand, led by an innovative line of flight bags. Since that time the company has grown to be one of the better recognized names in aviation, and the Lift bag (the first Flight Outfitters product) has become a staff favorite at Sporty’s, with a thoughtful design that packs a lot of storage into a compact bag. But after nearly a decade on the market, the bags were due for an update, so we were happy to see a refreshed collection launch this month. We’ve been testing all three new flight bags over the last month and can say confidently that Flight Outfitters has pulled this off. Here’s a PIREP.

If you're not sure which headset will be right for you, Sporty's Test Flight Guarantee can be a major benefit. Take your headset flying and make sure it works for you. Sporty's Test Flight Guarantee requires no paperwork and no hassle. It's just another reason why we are the #1 headset dealer in aviation.

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.

Modern avionics like glass cockpits and sophisticated autopilots demand a new approach to pilot training, what airline pilot and author Chris Lutat calls “automation airmanship.” He explains what that means, why the distinction between pilot flying and pilot monitoring matters even for single pilot operations, and why humans have an essential role—especially in the age of AI. Chris’s flying career began in the Coast Guard, so he also shares lessons learned there and how he’s giving back now as a mentor for cadets. In the Ready to Copy segment, Chris talks about the chances of single-pilot airline flights, what CRM really means, and his tips for handling sea sickness.

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.

Many pilots are intimidated by Air Traffic Control, but veteran controller Kevin Plante says “we’re just another set of eyes for you.” He explains the details of ATC in this wide-ranging episode, including how he handles IFR and VFR traffic differently, what the spacing requirements are for wake turbulence, and when it’s OK to speak plain English on the radio. Kevin is also a very experienced GA pilot, so he shares his perspective from the other side of the microphone, including how he plans a flight knowing what he does about routes and weather. In the Ready to Copy segment, Kevin talks about Special VFR, the one technology he wishes he had at the radar scope, and his favorite bourbon. 

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.