Sporty's PIREPs

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. 

Designed for pilots of all skill levels, these high-quality tabs identify what is most important and make it easy to find and reference essential regulations and procedures found in both the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) and the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM). The tabs break down the vast amount of information into manageable sections, helping you quickly find what you need—so you can spend less time searching and more time understanding. 

Experimental airplanes make up an increasingly large share of the general aviation market, and Marc Cook knows that world better than anyone. He traces the history of homebuilts, from the radical plans of the 1980s to the refined kits of today, and describes the current state of the industry. He also talks about the causes of Van’s recent bankruptcy ordeal, and shares why he’s very optimistic about the upcoming MOSAIC rule—but also why it won’t lead to $20,000 airplanes. In the Ready to Copy segment, Marc names the biggest mistake homebuilders make, chooses the most underrated experimental airplane, and explains why riding motorcycles and flying airplanes requires the same approach to risk. 

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.

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.