Sporty's PIREPs

The TPM or Throttle/Propeller/Mixture controls are a great emulator of what pilots use when controlling the engine instruments in a Cessna 172 aircraft. The vernier style (or push/pull style) takes up less space than the typical rotating levers found in most aircraft, and also makes small lever adjustments easy.

The only thing you need to start flight training is an open mind, but after a few lessons it will become clear that you need to invest in some aviation gear to really be efficient. This can actually be a lot of fun (like fishing or golf, you have to look the part!), but the huge variety of pilot supplies out there can sometimes be overwhelming. Since we run a flight school at Sporty's, new student pilots often ask us what you really need for flight training. Here is the list our flight instructors distribute to students at Sporty's. There's plenty more you can buy, but these are the essentials.

Sporty’s is pleased to unveil its expanded women’s AeroWear™ Collection, a curated lineup of performance apparel created exclusively for women who live and breathe aviation. Designed with premium fabrics, functional details, and signature aviation accents, the collection brings together comfort, versatility, and pilot-inspired style.

Making good decisions is a critical skill for safe flying, but it’s something most pilots rarely think about. Not Ken Stahl. He explains how to think smarter, especially under pressure, with valuable insights from his experience in cardiac surgery and the cockpit. Dr. Stahl also talks about the value of a “dopamine holiday,” how to monitor your flying performance as you age, and crew resource management. In the Ready to Copy segment, he talks about whether doctors are good pilots, how to live a healthier life, and his favorite question from patients.

As 2025 comes to an end, pilots are looking for innovative tools and reliable gear that offer a mix of technology, convenience, and safety. From ADS-B receivers with flight data recorders (and backup batteries to keep them charged) to robust headsets, these top picks are designed to make your flying experience smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Here’s a roundup of the standout products every pilot should have in their flight bag. 

The ASA FAR/AIM is a trusted, accurate, and well-supported resource that every pilot should have. While you might encounter cheaper "knock-off" versions in the market, they are purposefully trying to mislead you into buying a book that is not a FAR/AIM.

Sporty’s Pilot Shop is proud to offer high-quality gear from ASA. Aviation Supplies and Academics (ASA) manufactures plotters, E6Bs, logbooks, kneeboards, and is a leading publisher of aviation books. With such a vast product range, there is sure to be a gift for the aviator on your list. Here are the top 5 ASA gifts for pilots. 

We're excited to offer free shipping for AOPA Members on purchases made on October 29, 2025 only. Whether you're stocking up on cockpit essentials, shopping for the holidays, or treating yourself to something special, we've got you covered.

Sporty’s Christmas Ornament is an annual tradition for the aviation community. This limited-edition, crystal ornament combines the magic of flight with 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.

As a student pilot, your checkride is essentially your graduation day. You put in loads of time, both studying and flying. You come prepared with all your documentation, know all of your checklists, and acronyms. It is your big day to show off to your designated pilot examiner (DPE) exactly what you know and understand. This is your time to shine. Until it’s not.