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.
Sporty’s recently released its logbook covers as a stylish and practical way for pilots to carry and protect their logbook and other important documents. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Sporty’s Professional Logbook Covers combine elegance with functionality, making each one an ideal gift, and the essential accessory for pilots who value the perfect blend of style and practicality.
Sporty’s recently released a breakthrough app, Aerobatics with Patty Wagstaff for Apple Vision Pro, which promises to revolutionize the way pilots and aviation enthusiasts experience the thrill of aerobatics. The app offers a safe and engaging pathway to experience the complexities of aerobatic flight maneuvers through immersive 360-degree video. Aerobatics with Patty Wagstaff allows users to sit in the cockpit virtually with Patty Wagstaff as she demonstrates a variety of aerobatic maneuvers
Kevin Garrison grew up riding his bike to the local airport, then built time flying freight before enjoying a 30-year career as an airline pilot. In this honest (and hilarious) episode, he shares what he experienced along the way, including: what you learn when you scare yourself in an airplane, how to be a good airline captain, and why habit patterns matter. He also urges pilots to have fun when they fly and explains why many pilots talk too much on the radio. In the Ready to Copy segment, Kevin busts an airline pilot myth, shares his favorite Boeing model, and describes how to be a good airport bum.
Ethan DeVries knew from an early age that he was happiest while in and around airplanes. As a high school student in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he continued to dream of flying; but it would be several years before Ethan would take his first Discovery Flight.
Now, Ethan is the latest recipient of Sporty’s $2,500 Pilot Training+ Scholarship. Since earning a political science degree from Calvin University, Ethan has worked professionally as a technology consultant, assisting both start-ups and government entities. His professional career has taken him from Washington, D.C., to Honolulu, Hawaii, where he currently resides with his wife and 17-month-old son.
May is Learn to Fly Month at Sporty’s, a celebration of learning to fly designed to help new pilots achieve their aviation goals. In addition to offering savings on popular pilot gear and training resources, Sporty’s will be posting inspiring content on its social media channels, presenting webinars, and delivering valuable flight training resources throughout Sporty’s media network sites, including FlightTrainingCentral.com and Sporty’s PIREPs Blog.
Sporty's, the industry’s leading provider of aviation products and training content, announced today that CEO Michael Wolf will retire on January 31, 2025. Wolf has been a part of the Sporty’s team for more than 50 years, and has served as the company’s Chief Executive Officer since 2008, leading the organization through significant milestones and growth. Sporty’s President, John Zimmerman, will assume the role of CEO upon Wolf’s retirement.
