Sporty's PIREPs

In an industry famous for its ridiculous acronyms, ADS-B stands out for being uniquely confusing. Lots of pilots use the term, but not everyone really knows what it means. And who can blame them - it’s incredibly complicated. So what is ADS-B? Why should you care about it? Can you just ignore it? No. While ADS-B may be confusing, it’s probably the most important technological change you will have to deal with as a pilot over the next two decades. So it's worth the effort to learn this new language.

We're sorry you missed us for AOPA Day on October 23, 2024. But you can still save on these great deals for a limited time only!

In each “Sentry Story,” we’ll describe an actual flight and share the view out the window and ForeFlight mobile app screenshots. You’ll see how Sentry ADS-B Receivers 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 for a chance to be featured in one of our Sentry Stories.

Learning to fly is one of the most rewarding adventures, and Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course has been the trusted co-pilot for countless pilots. Now, with the 2025 edition, we're taking aviation education to the next level by blending cutting-edge Aviation Intelligence℠ (AI) tools, immersive video lessons, and integrated real-world flight simulation—all designed to make your learning experience faster, easier, and more engaging. Whether you're preparing for your first solo or polishing up your test skills, Sporty's keeps you ahead of the curve with lifetime updates, exciting new features, and content that makes flying safe and fun.

The regulations (14 CFR 91.211) only require that that the flight crew use supplemental oxygen after 30 minutes at cabin pressure altitudes between 12,500 and 14,000 feet and at all times for cabin pressure altitudes above 14,000 feet. Pilots and passengers must be provided with supplemental oxygen at cabin pressure altitudes above 15,000 feet.

Sporty's Christmas Ornament is an annual tradition for the aviation community. This limited-edition, crystal ornament brings together the magic of flight and the spirit of the holiday season, making it the perfect gift for pilots and aviation enthusiasts—and an ideal client gift for flight schools and FBOs. The 2024 edition of the Sporty’s Christmas Ornament captures the sleek design and adventurous essence of the AirCam.

Home flight simulators can be valuable training tools, and they don’t necessarily teach bad flying habits. Evan Reiter, co-founder of the Flight Simulation Association, shares the data to back up those statements in this sim-centric episode. He also explains why virtual ATC services are so important for simulator pilots, and he offers a preview of the highly anticipated Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. In the Ready to Copy segment, Evan (who is also an airline pilot) talks about his favorite flight sim hardware, how to sound better on the radio, and the surprising way flying helps him on the ski slopes.

Whether you are a seasoned aviator or just embarking on your flying journey, exploring new destinations is one of the most thrilling parts of being a pilot. Sporty’s new digital guide takes this excitement to the next level by showcasing 50 fun flying destinations across the United States, each selected for its unique charm, aviation history, or must-see attractions. Plus, we have made planning easier than ever with a custom ForeFlight Content Pack and map layer.

New technology has made flying safer over the last two decades, but it hasn’t done much to prevent loss of control accidents. These are still the number one cause of fatalities in aviation, and according to upset prevention instructor Randy Brooks the only answer is better pilot training. He explains why upset training is different from aerobatics, why your first instinct should be to push, and why simulators aren’t a replacement for pulling Gs. Randy is also a longtime airshow pilot, so in the Ready to Copy segment he talks about flying formation aerobatics, what it’s like to perform an airshow in a glider, and flying the L-39 jet trainer.

This durable tie-down kit includes two 10’ straps for the wings and a 6’ strap for the tail, designed to accommodate both high-wing and low-wing aircraft. Each strap features coated snap hooks on both ends for quick connections that will not damage your aircraft. With one simple pull of the strap through the cam buckle, the tie-down delivers a secure hold with a break strength of 1,100 pounds.