Sporty's PIREPs

Sporty’s has released version 2.0 of its popular Instructor Guide to FAA Endorsements, developed in partnership with the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI). This free, digital reference is designed to help flight instructors navigate the most common FAA endorsements—efficiently, accurately, and with confidence.

Breaking the sound barrier isn’t like the movies, and Tristan “Geppetto” Brandenburg would know: he’s done it both as a Navy F/A-18 fighter pilot and as a test pilot in Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 demonstrator aircraft. He talks about Boom’s plans for supersonic airline travel, learning to fly an all-new design, and the aerodynamics of flight at Mach 1.1. Tristan also talks about his Navy career, including what it was like to make his first carrier landing. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll hear what it was like to fly the F-104 Starfighter, what flutter is, and tips for better landings in a Mooney.

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.