Sporty's PIREPs

Air traffic controllers and pilots are on the same team, they just have different perspectives. Marcus Miller, a center controller and the creator of the PropHatCat TikTok channel, explains those differences and much more in this fast-paced episode, including: when to fly a piston airplane into an airline airport, how to ask for help as a student pilot, and what he thinks of all the jokes on guard frequency. He also talks about pursuing ATC as a career, including the role of simulators and the benefits of musical theater training. In the Ready to Copy segment, Marcus shares the number one misconception about ATC, his favorite Broadway show, and tips for pulling off magic tricks.

The first big aviation event of the year is about to kick off, and Sporty's is bringing plenty of excitement to Lakeland this year, including buzz around a major new product announcement. The annual SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo, which takes place in sunny Lakeland, Florida (LAL), runs from April 14 through April 19. Stop by Sporty's big tent - just outside Hangar A on the main ramp - for new products, interactive demos, pilot experts, and much more.

Trying to follow an instruction you don’t fully understand or aren’t ready to execute can create a lot more risk than politely declining. Ask for clarification, request an alternative, or stick to something you can handle safely.

Sporty’s Aviation Gifts is bringing a touch of aviation charm to your garden with its new Solar-Powered Aviator Garden Gnome. Positioned on its bright red airplane, this whimsical gnome features a solar-powered LED light that illuminates the airplane’s nose cone at dusk, automatically charging by day—no cords or batteries required.

From March 15 through August 15, 2026, entrants may submit their best seaplane images for a chance to win a $1,000 Sporty’s Gift Card and to have their photo featured on the cover of a future edition of the famous Sporty’s Pilot Shop Catalog. Second and third place winners will each receive a $500 Sporty’s Gift Card. Submitted photos will also be eligible for inclusion in the SPA’s annual calendar.

Ed Galkin has flown his Cessna 210 around the world in both directions, and last year he flew a circle around the Atlantic Ocean at age 89. In his uniquely energetic way, he explains how much planning goes into each trip, how he stays focused in flight, and the best places he’s visited along the way. Ed also shares some tips for staying sharp as a pilot, even well into your 80s, including the value of an instrument rating. In the Ready to Copy segment, you’ll learn about managing your bladder on 14-hour flights, landing at Easter Island, and what Ed learned as an oral surgeon that helped in the cockpit.

If you’ve been using Starlink to stay connected in the cockpit, Starlink just issued an important update that’s worth understanding before your next trip. Here’s the plain-English version of what changed, what your options are, and how to decide whether an Aviation plan makes sense for you.

Buying an aviation headset is a surprisingly personal decision. There is no "right answer" for every pilot—it depends on the type of flying you do, what airplane you fly most often and your personal preferences. Here are a few things to consider as you compare models.

If you're not sure which headset will be right for you, Sporty's Test Flight Guarantee can be a major benefit. Take your headset flying and make sure it works for you. Sporty's Test Flight Guarantee requires no paperwork and no hassle. It's just another reason why we are the #1 headset dealer in aviation.

For years, Sporty’s aviation media properties have served pilots at every stage of flying—from students to seasoned IFR pilots. Each outlet has its own editorial focus, but there’s significant overlap in audience and a shared passion and interest across the community. The Active Runway now connects that entire ecosystem in one place.