Sporty's PIREPs

Modern avionics like glass cockpits and sophisticated autopilots demand a new approach to pilot training, what airline pilot and author Chris Lutat calls “automation airmanship.” He explains what that means, why the distinction between pilot flying and pilot monitoring matters even for single pilot operations, and why humans have an essential role—especially in the age of AI. Chris’s flying career began in the Coast Guard, so he also shares lessons learned there and how he’s giving back now as a mentor for cadets. In the Ready to Copy segment, Chris talks about the chances of single-pilot airline flights, what CRM really means, and his tips for handling sea sickness.

Airspace is divided into Controlled, Uncontrolled, Special Use and Other. Airspace designation is determined by considering the density of aircraft, the types of operations, the level of safety required, and the national and public interest. Controlled airspace is generally where ATC service is provided. There are different requirements if the flight is operated under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) or Visual Flight Rules (VFR). For example, a pilot flying IFR in controlled airspace will have to file an IFR flight plan and receive an ATC clearance. For VFR flight, controlled airspace means increased cloud clearance and visibility requirements.  For the VFR pilot flying in B, C, and D airspace, there are communication and/or clearance requirements.

Many pilots are intimidated by Air Traffic Control, but veteran controller Kevin Plante says “we’re just another set of eyes for you.” He explains the details of ATC in this wide-ranging episode, including how he handles IFR and VFR traffic differently, what the spacing requirements are for wake turbulence, and when it’s OK to speak plain English on the radio. Kevin is also a very experienced GA pilot, so he shares his perspective from the other side of the microphone, including how he plans a flight knowing what he does about routes and weather. In the Ready to Copy segment, Kevin talks about Special VFR, the one technology he wishes he had at the radar scope, and his favorite bourbon. 

Take your post-flight tradition to the next level with Sporty’s new Captain’s Debriefing Shot Glass Gift Set. Designed to commemorate the adventures and accomplishments of aviators, this unique collection is the perfect way to celebrate successful flights, toast future journeys, and enjoy the camaraderie of the aviation community.

The Captain’s Debriefing Shot Glass Gift Set includes four glasses, each cleverly labeled with a different phase of flight:  Departure, Enroute, Arrival and Debrief.

Sporty’s is proud to announce the launch of its innovative Flight Gear Emergency Backup Battery, designed to enhance flight deck safety by providing backup power for your electronic flight bag (iPad/iPhone) and other portable devices. This reliable backup battery is sure to provide pilots with the peace of mind that they will never run out of battery power when it is needed most.

The Flight Gear Emergency Backup Battery delivers rapid charging capabilities in a compact design, making it an ideal travel companion.

Mnemonic acronyms are wonderful mechanisms for condensing complex terms, phrases or lists into something more manageable to commit to memory.  Aviation has its fair share of clever—and sometimes silly—recall devices, which stands to reason when there is critically important information that should be committed to memory.

Speaking of clever and silly, "ATOMATOFLAMES" is a mnemonic acronym used to help pilots remember the critical components required for aircraft airworthiness for daytime flight in visual (VFR) conditions. Each letter in ATOMATOFLAMES corresponds to a specific item that must be operational before takeoff.  This equipment list can be found in § 91.205.

Scheduling a checkride in 2024 might mean waiting three months. What’s going on, and how can applicants prepare for the big day? Longtime examiner Jason Blair shares a host of helpful tips is this episode, including: why DPEs are overwhelmed, what critical skill pilots need to demonstrate, what CFIs can do to support their client, and what technology can be used on the checkride. Jason also spends a lot of time flying cabin class piston twins, so he offers advice for new owners and explains why middle altitude weather can be a challenge. In the Ready to Copy segment, Jason talks about flight training stats, defensive flying tips, and whether you have to be in a cloud to log actual IFR.

Pilots and aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the new Fish Finder T-Shirt from Sporty’s, a design that combines humor with comfort and style. Featuring a " Got’em on the Fish Finder " banner, this T-shirt is sure to turn heads and spark conversations wherever you go. In addition to its comedic value, the T-shirt is a great way to connect with fellow aviators. Whether you're a pilot looking to showcase your love for flying or an aviation enthusiast seeking a conversation-starter piece, the Fish Finder T-Shirt is the perfect addition to your wardrobe. 

Sporty’s is proud to introduce the Flight Gear Pull-Down Tie-Down Kit—the simple and reliable solution for keeping your aircraft secure.  Featuring an innovative rope-ratcheting system, which allows for quick and effortless tightening and release, this device is designed with the pilot in mind. Simply attach one of the coated hooks to the aircraft and the other hook to the tie-down anchor point. Then, with very little effort, pull the rope through the automatic ratcheting system to secure the aircraft. When you are ready to fly, use the quick-release trigger on the ratcheting mechanism to release the ropes. It is that simple and quick, with no complicated knots or manual ratcheting required.

A new generation of kids is entering the aviation industry right now, and that’s exciting for Amy Laboda. The longtime flight instructor and writer explains why today’s student pilots are different, how writing can make you a better pilot, and what new flight instructors need to succeed. Amy also shares the lessons learned from ditching a Cessna 210 off Key West, including the critical skill to practice and what survival gear matters. In the Ready to Copy segment, Amy describes a good passenger briefing, picks her favorite Van’s airplane, and shares what it’s like to live on an airpark.