Sporty's Product PIREPs

Most of the focus on the iPad today is centered on its ability to serve as an electronic flight bag in the cockpit. But if you look back to 2010 when the original iPad debuted, you'll see it was primarily designed as a media consumption device, providing a new way to read books, watch movies and listen to music while on the go. This set the device up as an excellent platform for delivering aviation training courses that incorporated study guides, video and interactive features.

The Sporty’s Foundation made bequests totaling $152,500 during 2015 to act on its commitment to attract new market entrants with both pilots and aviation technicians. The Foundation has issued its most recent Annual Report, detailing activities and bequests during the previous year.

ForeFlight’s Synthetic Vision is a visually stunning and high-performance hazard awareness capability for iPad. Fly with more confidence in all conditions and terrain. When paired with Stratus 2S, ForeFlight’s Synthetic Vision becomes an affordable backup attitude system.

I have to say that these days it seems by running fast you practically stay in place. Technology is relentless and to serve our customers we have had to learn to move fast, act fast and adapt. In fact, what became clear in 2015 is that the very act of shopping has changed. Let's take a look at what 2015 brought us. 

A portable aviation radio is essential equipment for any pilot. It's an easy way to get a clearance before starting the engine, and a valuable way to learn communications without burning any avgas. While these ground-based uses are nice, though, the real value of a radio is found in the cockpit. If the worst should happen and your panel goes dark, a good NAV/COM in your hand can save the day. It can help you navigate to an airport, call ATC for help and maybe even help you shoot an instrument approach.

But how good is a portable radio in an emergency? Do they really work beyond a few miles? We went flying to answer this question, and the results were pleasantly surprising.

Sporty's President Michael Wolf shares his list

2015 has been full of new product launches, from headsets and smart watches to flight bags and drones. One of aviation's defining characteristics is its focus on innovation, and you'll see that below.

Here are my top ten favorite new products for the year so far. Since they weren't available last Christmas, the pilot on your list might not have one yet. Any of them would make a unique gift, and all are backed by our no hassle guarantee.

Merry Christmas,

Michael Wolf
President

I’m a modern pilot and I’m a technology enthusiast. Today’s wide availability of aviation gadgets and gear is right up my alley. I fully appreciate and utilize electronics when I’m flying not only because it makes my navigating easier but because I enjoy having the latest tech gear. Merging my love of flying and pursuit of technology has led me to unmanned aerial systems (UAS) or drones, the media’s favorite new buzzword. Drones are the perfect mix of cool technology and flying. I’m not able to go flying every day, but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to be flying however possible. So what do I need to know before I get a drone?

There's been a lot of talk about WAC charts lately. Are they going away? When? Are there replacements? In this article, we explain what's really going on and how you can be ready for the change.

Tips from the pilots at Sporty's

Buying an aviation headset is a surprisingly personal decision. There is no “right answer” for every pilot – it depends on the type of flying you do, what airplane you fly most often and your personal preferences. Here are a few things to consider as you compare models.