Sporty's PIREPs

Flying into an unfamiliar airport can be challenging, but a little prep goes a long way. Start with the basics: review the airport diagram to identify runway layout, hot spots, and taxi routes. Pay close attention to NOTAMs for runway closures or special procedures, and check for nearby terrain or obstacles—especially at non-towered or mountainous locations.

Use satellite imagery and tools like ForeFlight’s 3D preview to get a visual sense of the airport environment. This can help you spot unusual runway alignments, nearby highways, or terrain features that might influence your arrival.

In each Sentry Story, we’ll describe an actual flight and share the view out the window and ForeFlight screenshots. You’ll see how Sentry can be used to make flying safer and easier, plus you’ll learn some tips for flying with datalink weather. Want to share your story? Email ipad@sportys.com

Each month, we highlight standout gear that’s earned a place on our New Product Checklist. From training tools and cockpit upgrades to thoughtful gifts and pilot favorites, these are the picks worth knowing. See what made the list this month, and why it belongs in every pilot’s lineup.

From the captivating spin of the fan blades to the finely-detailed compressor, turbine and inner components, this new line of Motorized Turbofan Engine Displays brings the awe of modern aviation right to your desk. Designed for pilots, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of jet engine technology, these 1:32 scale models replicate the motion and structure of actual jet engines in stunning fashion.

Sporty’s has launched a comprehensive new Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Test Prep Course, now available in the popular Sporty’s Pilot Training app. Designed for both Initial CFI Airplane and CFI Instrument (CFII) applicants, the course delivers targeted preparation for what is often considered the most demanding phase of a pilot’s training journey.

As the first CEO of Robinson Helicopter not named Robinson, David Smith has combined the company’s old fashioned manufacturing philosophy with a new focus on innovation. He talks about the result of that work, including the launch of the new R88 turbine helicopter and the first flight of a hydrogen-powered Robinson. David is also an experienced engineer, so he dives into the details of mast bumping and explains why many eVTOL aircraft will never succeed. In the Ready to Copy segment, David talks about the helicopter job market, heli-camping, and flight simulator myths.

Sporty’s is excited to announce its all-new spring AeroWear apparel collection, blending aviation-inspired design with performance-ready features, just in time for warmer weather. This season’s release introduces new polo designs, an adventure-ready outdoor shirt, and updated swimwear that’s as versatile as your summer plans.

Learn to Fly Week is a focused celebration of flight training, hosted by Sporty’s, with the goal of helping more people take their first step toward becoming a pilot. Taking place May 12–18, the week will feature engaging content, valuable free resources, and special savings on essential training tools—all designed to support student pilots and aviation enthusiasts on their journey.

Each month, we highlight standout gear that’s earned a place on our New Product Checklist. From training tools and cockpit upgrades to thoughtful gifts and pilot favorites, these are the picks worth knowing. See what made the list this month, and why it belongs in every pilot’s lineup.

When we talk about flight controls, most pilots immediately think of the yoke or stick and rudder pedals—the primary flight controls. These directly control the airplane’s pitch, bank, and yaw via the elevator, ailerons, and rudder. But there’s a second set of controls that play a crucial supporting role: the secondary flight controls. Secondary flight controls help fine-tune the aircraft's performance and handling. The most common examples are flaps and trim systems.