Sporty’s Custom Flight Track Map

Sporty’s can now create a custom framed print showing the track map of all IFR flights you made in a time period up to one year. Using data from Flight Aware, this print shows all IFR flights, including departure and destination airport identifiers and the actual route flown.

“Then we add a custom-engraved plaque with the pilot’s name, N-number and dates,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman.  “This print would make a great gift – for yourself or for a flying buddy.”

Prior to the final framing, Sporty’s sends you a watermarked image for you to review. Ideal for office or hangar, the high-resolution print measures 26” high by 29” wide when framed.

Each print is limited to one N-number with flights from 2007 onward in the continental United States. When ordering, you specify beginning and end dates, the aircraft N-number and instructions for the message box. A typical print will take about one week to produce.

The Custom Flight Track Map [4713A] is available for $499 and may be ordered at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.  Special orders and custom framing options are available. For details, please call Sporty’s Customer Service at 513.735.9000.

Download hi-res EPS of The Custom Flight Track Map

Air Facts’ Summer Writing Challenge.

Air Facts, the online journal for personal air travel, is asking young pilots to write essays about their flying experience as part of Air Facts’ Summer Writing Challenge.

“We need to recognize and hear from young pilots and have them share their flying experiences with us,” says John Zimmerman, Air Facts’ Editor. “You don’t have to be a 65-year old multi-thousand hour pilot to be a member of the pilot club. Young pilots are important.”

Pilots from 16 to 24-years of age should submit a 750 to 1000 word personal essay on one of the following subjects:

• The Moment I Felt like a Pilot
• My First Passenger 
• “I Messed Up”
• Five Flying Adventures I Want to Have
• Topic of your own choosing

Young pilots may select one of these topics, or one of their own choosing. Essays should be submitted in a Word document, along with a digital photo of themselves and 50-word biography. Submissions should be sent to editor@airfactsjournal.com.

“Our motivation for the Summer Writing Challenge is to shine a light on the incredible young people who have chosen to be pilots,” adds Zimmerman. “Their voices should be part and parcel of the GA community, and this is our way to make sure they are welcome.”

Sporty’s RV-12 Sweepstakes

Sporty’s Sweepstakes airplane for 2014 is an all-new Van’s RV-12. This aircraft is the first factory-built airplane from Van’s, a leading designer of kit aircraft.

More than just a factory-built aircraft, Sporty’s RV-12 is part of Van’s Signature Series. This series includes the first 12 aircraft manufactured and features deluxe upholstery with memory foam seats, an autopilot and a stunning custom paint scheme. These 12 aircraft feature Dick Van Grunsven’s signature on the side.

“The RV-12 is a breakthrough airplane, and it will change the way many think about LSAs,” says Sporty’s President Michael Wolf. “The airplane can carry two 210-lb passengers, 20 gallons of fuel and 50 lbs of baggage.”

The impressive panel features the Dynon Skyview system, including a large 10” screen, GPS, Mode S transponder and autopilot. A Garmin SL-40 comm radio, Flightcom intercom and ELT round out the avionics suite.

All Sporty’s Pilot Shop customers are automatically entered to win the airplane every time they order. Orders received between May 11, 2013, and May 9, 2014, are eligible to win this airplane.

“Another remarkable feature of the RV-12 is that its Rotax 912ULS engine delivers a 135 mph top speed on just 5 gallons per hour. It’s ideal for cross country trips or lazy weekend flights,” adds Wolf.

For more information on Sporty’s RV-12 sweepstakes, please visit sportys.com/sweepstakes.

Download hi-res EPS of Sporty’s RV-12 Sweepstakes Airplane

Download hi-res EPS of Sporty’s RV-12 Sweepstakes Airplane in front of hangar

Download hi-res EPS of Sporty’s RV-12 Sweepstakes Airplane’s Cockpit

Download hi-res EPS of Sporty’s RV-12 Sweepstakes Airplane’s signature panel

The second generation Stratus includes ADS-B traffic and a built-in AHRS.

The all-new Stratus turns your iPad into the ultimate pilot tool, delivering subscription-free weather, ADS-B traffic, GPS position and attitude information – all from a wireless receiver that fits in your pocket. But more capability doesn’t mean you have to compromise. Stratus still features over 8 hours of battery life, easy one-button operation and costs 30% less than comparable ADS-B receivers.

Built-in AHRS for backup attitude

The new Stratus includes a complete Attitude Heading Reference System (AHRS) for backup attitude information in the cockpit. It aligns itself automatically, so you can just turn it on and fly. Download the free Stratus Horizon app and view a backup attitude indicator, GPS groundspeed and altitude on your iPhone or iPad. (Not to be used for primary reference.)

Dual band ADS-B traffic

Stratus includes a dual band (978 MHz and 1090 MHz) ADS-B receiver and displays traffic information right on the ForeFlight Maps page. See relative altitude, climb/descent rate and projected track. Note: ADS-B traffic is limited unless your aircraft has ADS-B Out installed in the panel.

Subscription-free in-flight weather

Just like the original Stratus, you can view in-flight weather on your iPad, including NEXRAD radar, METARs, TAFs, TFRs, AIRMETs, SIGMETs, NOTAMs and more. And there are no subscription fees – ever.

WAAS GPS unlocks track up and terrain

Stratus includes a dual band ADS-B traffic receiver.

With the built-in WAAS GPS receiver, Stratus allows you to view moving maps, track up displays and high resolution terrain maps in ForeFlight Mobile. The smart GPS locks on fast and typically provides 1 meter accuracy.

8-hour battery means no wires

Even with all these features, Stratus remains totally wireless. With its 8-hour battery life, you can fly all day without bringing along a charging cable. Just turn on Stratus and go flying.

Built for ForeFlight

Stratus is the only ADS-B receiver that works with ForeFlight, aviation’s most popular app. That’s because Stratus was designed from the ground up to integrate with the app, so you can view complete status information right from the moving map page. Stratus simply works the right way.

30% smaller, higher performance case

Even though the new Stratus has more capability, it features a smaller case size, better GPS performance and better ADS-B reception. It’s also more heat-resistant, with a built-in fan.

Designed, tested and built in the USA

Stratus is built by pilots like you, so we know that quality is more than just a tagline. Stratus is engineered, tested and manufactured in the United States, ensuring you receive the best-made, most reliable ADS-B receiver on the market.

Includes:

• Learn how to download the app and start a subscription
• See all the powerful moving map features in action, including track up and terrain
• Go in depth with the route editor to learn how to choose the right route
• Find out how to keep your digital charts up to date
• Learn the preflight iPad checklist you should use every time
• Get tips for using wireless iPad accessories with ForeFlight
• Fly along on a real trip to see everything in action
• Review quiz reinforces key concepts
• Printable iPad checklist for preflight preparation
• FAA Advisory Circular 91-78 included
• Includes the complete Pilot’s Guide to ForeFlight manual

Video is approx. 60 minutes. Available as a streaming online course–no software to install. Works on Windows, Mac or iPad.

More information

That’s why NFlightcam designed this universal iPhone camera kit—simply attach the lens to your iPhone, plug in the audio cable to your headset and go flying. You’ll be recording top quality audio and video, and you can instantly share everything right from your iPhone. It’s the perfect video camera for the pilot on the go. Features the Aviator Lens, a 170-degree, wide angle lens for an immersive experience that includes a special filter to reduce prop blur. Adjustable bracket works with or without an iPhone case. Recommended for iPhone 4S and 5. 1/4”-20 screw on bottom is compatible with most camera mounts.

More information

While you’re here, shop our retail store for hundreds of products that will make your flying safer, easier and more fun. Our knowledgeable staff will walk you through the benefits of an array of headset manufacturers and models. We’ll show you our latest iPad accessories and you can check out the new Cessna aircraft we have for sale. Try on a leather flying jacket. (Come on, you know you’ve always wanted one.) Take a look at our posters and other aviation-themed home décor. In short, you can see all the products featured in all our catalogs up close and personal.

Need more convincing?

• Our airport has a 3700-foot runway with GPS and VOR approaches.
• Sporty’s hosts a fully-functional weather center for flight planning.
• Vending machines offer sandwiches, snacks, candy and a host of beverages.
• Spotless public restrooms, including showers.
• Avgas and Jet Fuel prices are kept low to make topping off affordable.
• Children are welcome: kids play in a dedicated outdoor play area.
• Wile away an hour or two sitting on a bench watching airplanes take off and land.
• Combine your visit to Sporty’s with a tour of the on-airport Tri-State Warbird Museum

Clermont County/Sporty’s Airport is one of the most beautiful little airports in the country. Come for a visit. You will be among friends.

More information

Sporty’s will be exhibiting at the 2013 AOPA Aviation Summit in Fort Worth, Texas. The even runs October 10-12. Stop by Sporty’s booth to see new products and talk to our team of pilots. Sporty’s will also be hosting a variety of seminars at the show.

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Sporty’s 10th annual Fly-in is May 17, 2014.

Sporty’s annual fly-in and open house is scheduled for Saturday, May 17, 2014, from 10am to 3pm. This event is always fun for any aviation enthusiast, with seminars, exhibitors and Sporty’s famous hot dog cookout. At noon, the winner of Sporty’s 2014 RV-12 Sweepstakes will be announced.

Make plans to attend this fun, free day at the airport.

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