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Sporty’s Offers Flight Instructor Refresher Course

May 17, 2016/in Hot Products, Press Releases/by rhoskins

A new and better solution to CFI revalidation

Flight instructors now have another choice when it comes time to satisfy the CFI renewals. Sporty’s online FIRC was created by the instructional staff at Sporty’s Academy and comes in a convenient online format – universally accessible for PC, Mac, and mobile devices including iPad/iPhone and Android platforms.

With no software to install, a flight instructor simply logs in anywhere there is an internet connection and begins training – at his or her own pace. Sporty’s eFIRC contains 17 lessons broken down into learning modules for ease of study. Topics range from loss of control to how to build a culture of safety, from ethics and professionalism to explaining aerodynamic concepts and teaching night flying. Another module contains important information about Transportation Security Administration regulations and what flight instructors need to know to stay out of trouble.

“Just like with Sporty’s other courses, the goal of the eFIRC is not just to pass the test,” said Sporty’s Academy President Eric Radtke. “We want to help flight instructors become better teachers and communicators.”

Sporty’s eFIRC includes Sporty’s award-winning video content. Complete with 3D animation and graphics, video-based learning helps to further explain complex topics in an effective and entertaining format. Instructors also can enjoy access to a host of supplemental resources that can be incorporated into everyday teaching activity.

Flight instructors whose instructor credentials have not yet expired are eligible to renew their credentials upon satisfactory completion of the FIRC. The provided graduation certificate is then submitted to a certifying official (aviation safety inspector or approved designated examiner) for renewal. Ground instructors may also receive a graduation certificate to meet the recent experience requirements of §61.217 (c).

The estimated time to complete the FIRC material and take the required final exam is approximately 16.5 hours.

In order to begin revalidation on Sporty’s eFIRC [#6481-1A], flight instructors should log in at sportys.com/FIRC. The cost of the course, including graduation certificate, is $99.00.

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Ongoing Enhancements Made to Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course

March 31, 2016/in Hot Products, Press Releases/by rhoskins

Updates and new features make course more useful

Sporty’s has once again improved on its already award-winning Learn to Fly Course with dozens of additions. All-new HD video segments were added for nearly 20 learning topics ranging from taxi tips to steep turns, from runway safety to ground reference maneuvers.

A new “Ask a CFI” feature allows viewers to get in touch with the experienced CFIs at Sporty’s Academy right from the course to ask questions about the course training materials, content in the FAA written test or other aviation topics related to your flight training.

Technical changes were made to enhance the participant’s experience in the core video player. The course now detects your bandwidth and automatically plays the highest quality video available (including full 1080p HD when available). The new video player also makes it much easier to fast forward within a video segment, and includes sophisticated progress tracking.

When watching on an iPad or iPhone or in the dedicated course app, you can take advantage of the iOS 9 picture-in-picture multitasking feature. This allows you to “pop” the video out of the web browser and continue to watch the video while using another app or other training features.

“We’re committed to presenting the best possible training course,” says Sporty’s Academy President Eric Radtke. “Whether it’s new material or behind-the-scenes technical improvements, we will continue to make upgrades to this course which users will automatically gain access to at log-in.”

Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course (Online) [1753-1A] and Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course (iPad/iPhone app) [8132-1A] are each available for $199.99 and may be ordered at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

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No Frills iPad Rotating Kneeboards from Sporty’s

January 19, 2016/in Hot Products, Press Releases/by rhoskins

Low Tech Solution for High Tech Device

Sporty’s Rotating iPad Kneeboard

Sporty’s iPad Rotating Kneeboards are the smallest, simplest solution for using an iPad in the cockpit. These kneeboards are simply a mounting surface with elastic straps on the corners for securing the iPad.

“These iPad Kneeboards – for both the Air and mini – have no bells and whistles,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “They are just a simple platform to hold your iPad in flight while not interfering with flight control movement or vision.”

One essential feature is an integrated rotating mechanism, which allows for portrait and landscape orientation. In addition, these Kneeboards will work with most iPad cases.

The iPad Mini Rotating Kneeboard [5039A] is available for $18.95 and the iPad Air Rotating Kneeboard [4908A] is also available for $18.95. These Kneeboards, along with other products for iPad pilots, may be ordered at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

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Updated Line of Stratus ADS-B Receivers Now Available

July 7, 2015/in Hot Products, Press Releases/by rhoskins

Stratus 1S and 2S bring new features, enhanced performance

Stratus 1S and 2S are made exclusively for ForeFlight.

Appareo, ForeFlight and Sporty’s have introduced a new family of Stratus ADS-B receivers, building on a successful three-year partnership that has lowered the cost of in-flight weather for thousands of pilots.

The new Stratus 1S and Stratus 2S models offer improved performance across the board, including better ADS-B reception, enhanced thermal capabilities, and a next generation power connector. All of these upgrades are transparent to pilots – features like the sensitive internal antennas and an automatic fan require no pilot input or additional settings.

“Pilots love Stratus because it simply works the right way, so our focus has always been on improving performance while maintaining a pilot-friendly design,” said Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “Whether you’re flying a J-3 Cub or a Boeing 737, our latest Stratus models make your flying safer and easier without requiring a new avionics checkout.”

For professional pilots, Stratus now offers a suite of security options, including the ability to hide the device’s WiFi network and add a password. These settings, developed in consultation with airline and charter pilots, make Stratus an even more attractive solution for Part 121 and 135 operations.

More than simply weather receivers, Stratus represents the hub of an emerging avionics platform. Seamless integration with ForeFlight Mobile is a hallmark of the Stratus design, as the industry-leading electronic flight bag app can display weather, traffic, GPS position and backup attitude all on one screen. Complete status information is also available in the app and firmware updates are fast, enabling easy upgrades in the future.

Stratus can also display ADS-B weather data on the Apple Watch for enhanced situational awareness. For pilots planning an ADS-B panel upgrade, Stratus 1S and 2S can interface with Stratus ESG, Appareo’s new ADS-B Out transponder. This unique combination of portable and certified avionics offers the highest performance, lowest cost ADS-B upgrade on the market today.

“We believe in the power of great hardware and great software working together,” says ForeFlight CEO Tyson Weihs. “By developing Stratus and ForeFlight as a system, we provide unmatched features and value, like our game-changing Synthetic Vision display.”

Stratus 2S is the ultimate iPad accessory, offering subscription-free weather, dual band ADS-B traffic, a built-in Attitude Heading Reference System, a WAAS GPS and an integrated Flight Data Recorder. A new pressure altitude sensor allows pilots to view pressure altitude in ForeFlight, as well as enabling the app’s powerful Cabin Pressure Advisor. Stratus 2S’s price of $899 is over 30% less than many other ADS-B receivers.

Stratus 1S, at just $549, is an outstanding value. Pilots have access to subscription-free weather, single band ADS-B traffic, WAAS GPS position and all-day battery life. Stratus 1S also includes the innovative Stratus Replay feature, which allows pilots to turn off the screen on their iPad without missing important weather information.

“Stratus 2S continues to push the envelope for portable avionics with capabilities that make it a truly all-in-one pilot tool,” says Appareo Vice President of Business Development Jeff Johnson. “With Stratus 1S, we are affirming our commitment to offering in-flight weather to more pilots than ever, without sacrificing performance.”

Stratus 1S and 2S begin shipping next week, and will be on display at EAA Airventure Oshkosh in July. Both units are designed, tested and manufactured in the United States, and include 1 year warranties. Each Stratus 1S and 2S includes a suction cup mount, wall charger and rugged carrying case. Visit sportys.com/stratus for more information or to order.

Video Demo:

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Be Your Own Best Flight Instructor with Sporty’s IPC and Flight Review Apps

June 2, 2015/in Hot Products/by rhoskins

Now available for Android

Sporty’s Flight Review Android App

With the one-two punch of Sporty’s apps, you will have no worries when it comes to your next flight review. Using a visual menu system, the Instrument Proficiency Check app is divided into six subject areas and 27 individual video segments. Based on Sporty’s award-winning Instrument Rating Course, the IPC app contains more than 160 minutes of engaging 3D animations and in-flight video.

Then add Sporty’s Flight Review app to make sure you are thoroughly prepared. This Flight Review App is also divided into six segments and 42 topics including aeromedical factors, airspace, publications, regulations, airport signs and markings, and weather. Each of these areas is then broken down to sub-topics within each category.

“The combination of these two apps provides a focus for your flight review prep,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “The menu system allows you to hone in on your weaker areas to make the most of your test prep time.”

Both apps also include interactive review quizzes to reinforce key concepts. The Instrument Proficiency Check app comes with a bonus: the FAA publication “Instrument Proficiency Check Guidance.” This helpful guide is useful for both students who are getting ready to complete an instrument proficiency check, as well as for flight instructors preparing to give one.

“We know the goal is to earn that endorsement,” adds Zimmerman, “but these two apps go way beyond that. You’ll get a thorough refresher course in all aspects of VFR and IFR flight as you prepare.”

These two apps, which join Sporty’s existing Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency apps for iPad and iPhone, work on Android phones and tablets.

Sporty’s Flight Review Android App [91005A] is available for $29.99 and the Instrument Proficiency Check [91006A] is available for $39.99. Both may be purchased at sportys.com or at the Google Play Store.

Sporty’s Instrument Proficiency Check Android App

Sporty’s Releases New Version of Learn to Fly Course

June 2, 2015/in Hot Products/by rhoskins

New content and improved functionality enhance the learning experience

Sporty’s Updated Learn to Fly Updated course is the perfect flight training companion.

Sporty’s continues to deliver unprecedented value and outstanding learning experiences with new content and functionality for its popular Learn to Fly Course. Nearly four hours of new high-definition video content and animations have been added along with improved features for the popular written test prep application.

New video content includes training in cross-country flight operations that focuses on airspace, chart interpretation, planning, and detailed weather analysis that takes advantage of the latest products and technology available from the Aviation Weather Center and Lockheed Martin Flight Service. Real-world cross-country scenarios examine pilotage and dead reckoning while also incorporating GPS and modern iPad EFB applications. For those transitioning to night flying, you’ll also appreciate new tips and techniques. Supplemented with new graphics and 3D animations that offer incredible detail, these new segments are sure to provide student pilots with information relevant to modern technology and the current training environment.

Additionally, Sporty’s is pleased to introduce on-screen Meteorologist Scott Dimmich in this latest version. “We’re very pleased that Scott has joined Sporty’s talented group of video hosts,” said Sporty’s Academy President Eric Radtke. “Scott’s extensive television experience, weather expertise and vast aviation knowledge really shines as he discusses advanced weather theory and frontal weather as it relates to cross-country flying.”

Sporty’s has also improved functionality within its written test prep application allowing users to more easily take advantage of the popular feature that allows the written exam endorsement to be earned directly from the course. Test prep, included with the Learn to Fly Course, allows customized study sessions and simulated exams to be created with access to plain English explanations written by Sporty’s instructional team.

A detailed history of learning sessions is available anytime within customized Progress Reports for further review and to help measure progress. Study achievements can even be shared with friends, fellow pilots and flight instructors.

At each login, online and App users continue to gain access to brand new content at no additional charge. Sporty’s is regularly updating and refining video content, adding graphics and enhancing test preparation. Users are guaranteed to pass their written, oral and flight tests and can even receive their written exam endorsement right from the course.

Sporty’s online Learn to Fly Course or Learn to Fly App is available for $199 and may be ordered online at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

Successful Launch of Sporty’s 172LITE Program Leads to Sales

June 2, 2015/in Hot Products/by rhoskins

Demonstrated need for basic trainer

Sporty’s 172LITE panel.

Flight schools and flying clubs nationwide have expressed great interest in Sporty’s 172LITE trainer. As a result of this demand from the marketplace, Sporty’s is offering the 172LITE to flight schools and flying clubs as an affordable trainer.

“After December’s announcement of the 172LITE, my inbox and voicemail were flooded with inquiries from flight schools and flying clubs throughout the country,” Sporty’s Charlie Masters stated. “There is industry-wide demand for a basic, affordable airplane for the training and rental market for which the 172LITE hits the spot.”

The 172LITE begins life as a preowned Cessna 172. The airframe is inspected by Sporty’s mechanics and a refurbishment plan is developed including:

Engine overhaul by Signature Engines
Windows inspected and replaced as needed
New upholstery for seats and sidewalls
Plastic trim and headliner repaired or replaced
New vinyl floor covering
New metal instrument panel custom fit to the airframe
New electrical switches and circuit breakers
Wiring inspected and replaced as required
Each aircraft is outfitted with an intercom, basic communications radio and Mode C transponder
Instruments are tested and replaced as needed
Landing, Taxi and Position Lights replaced with modern LEDs
Controls and cables inspected and replaced as needed
Lastly, the aircraft is painted and undergoes another thorough inspection

The result is an aircraft with a new appearance, with all the instruments needed for initial training, for about one-third the price of a new Skyhawk. Although the goal of the 172LITE project is to produce a simple airplane that does not confuse the new student or renter with complicated menu-driven interfaces, the basic panel can be easily customized to accommodate any optional avionics customers may desire. This work is performed by Cincinnati Avionics, Sporty’s avionics shop.

The order book is now open to purchase 172LITEs, designed for a renewed era of flight training with emphasis on airmanship over systems, in an airframe that can easily accommodate two real-sized adults. For more information contact Charlie at [email protected] or (800) 908-4359.

Sporty’s 172LITE

Sporty’s Offers FAA-Approved ATP Certification Training Program

November 19, 2014/in Hot Products/by rhoskins

Partners with ABX Airlines in Wilmington, Ohio

ABX Airlines in Wilmington, Ohio

With the FAA mandate that all pilots seeking an ATP certificate be required to complete an FAA-approved ATP Certification Training Program (ATP-CTP) prior to taking the ATP Knowledge test, Sporty’s has partnered with ABX Airlines in Wilmington, Ohio to offer this training.

The ATP-CTP training requires at least 30 hours of classroom work and 10 hours of simulator training, six of which must be completed in a level C flight simulator or higher. As planned, Sporty’s ATP-CTP course will take place at the ABX Airlines learning center in Wilmington, Ohio. The six-day course will include four days of classroom instruction and the remainder of time in the simulator.

“ABX Air is proud to partner with Sporty’s in the launch of the ATP-CTP,” says ABX Flight Standards & Training Supervisor Steve Hanshew. “Besides a wealth of airline training experience, ABX also offers a world class flight simulator training facility where pilots will benefit from learning in modern, full-motion flight simulators from professional and experienced airline pilots.”

To be eligible for the ATP-CTP, you must possess a minimum of an FAA Private Pilot Certification. At course completion you will be provided a graduation certificate required to take the FAA knowledge test for multiengine ATP. ATP knowledge test results are then valid for 60 calendar months.

“Of course, the training includes all those FAA subject areas that are required by the FAA,” says Sporty’s Academy President Eric Radtke. “Those topics encompass aerodynamics, upset prevention & recovery, meteorology, air carrier operations, turbine engines, performance, automation, leadership, and crew resource management.”

Simulator training will include navigation, automation and high altitude operations in the DC-9 level C flight simulator under the guidance of the experienced ABX Airlines instructors. Classes are available approximately twice per month and may be scheduled up to six months in advance.

Sportys.com/ATP.

Flight Gear Navigator Bag

June 9, 2014/in Hot Products/by rhoskins

The next generation of flight bags

Technology has changed the way we fly, and flight bags need to change too. Gone are the days of carrying heavy chart binders; these have been replaced by iPads, ANR headsets and plenty of charging cords. The all-new Flight Gear collection is designed with these needs in mind, offering just the right amount of storage space in a series of streamlined, modern flight bags.

Since each one has been designed by a team of active general aviation pilots with over 20 years of experience in designing flight bags, every Flight Gear bag includes pilot-friendly details you won’t find anywhere else. They simply work better and last longer. From student pilots to military aviators alike, Flight Gear is the world standard for purpose-built flight bags.

The ultimate in-flight organizer

This versatile flight bag, our most popular design, is ideal for student pilots and experienced pros alike. It features thoughtfully designed pockets to protect and organize all you flying gear, but retains a slim profile and a modern look.

Real world pilot features

The Navigator was created exclusively for pilots – no gimmicks or camping features here. Exterior pockets include a padded headset pocket, padded iPad pocket, iPad accessory organizer for ADS-B receivers and GPSs, quick-access file folder pocket and a front cord storage pocket. The exclusive HideAway Headset Pockets[™] can be opened to offer additional organization for multiple headsets, RAM Mounts or a video camera system. When not in use, they zip closed and stay out of the way. The generously-sized main compartment can hold books, kneeboards, radios, GPSs or even a change of clothes.

Just the right size

The perfect flight bag is large enough to carry everything you need for a flight, but not so big that it is cumbersome or hard to store in the cockpit. The Navigator strikes the right balance, with room to carry multiple headsets, an iPad, backup charts and all the accessories – but it remains easy to carry and never looks bulky. For trips that require extra gear, the Navigator can expand or make use of optional accessories to haul even more.

Unmatched durability

Pilots need a bag they can count on – after all, it’s protecting some expensive and important gear. Every Flight Gear bag features pilot-tested construction techniques, like double-stitched seams, water-resistant rubber bottoms and strong metal hardware. Plus, each bag comes with an industry-leading 6 year warranty.

Not just for flying

While the Navigator is designed for pilots, you’ll find it both flexible enough and stylish enough to use every day: at the gym, as a carry-on airline bag or at the office.

Measures 10”w x 22”1 x 11”h overall.

See all Flight Gear Products

Sporty’s SP-400 Handheld NAV/COM Aviation Radio

June 9, 2014/in Hot Products/by rhoskins

Now with an upgraded screen – better contrast and adjustable backlight for improved sunlight readability

The award-winning SP-400 is simply the most powerful portable radio you can buy—like having a complete standby radio stack in your flight bag. The all-in-one radio makes a reliable backup for emergency use, but it’s also perfect for listening to ATIS, getting clearances before engine start or just monitoring local traffic.

But a great radio is worthless if it’s hard to use. That’s why our staff of pilots, flight instructors and aircraft owners spent so much time making the SP-400 intuitive and easy to use. It has all the features you need, but none that you don’t. There are no confusing menus, no memory bands and no complicated squelch buttons—just turn it on and type in a frequency. After all, an emergency is no time to look for an instruction manual.

Why the SP-400 is the pilot-friendly radio:

Oversized, high-resolution screen—twice as large as most other radios
Enhanced screen backlight with adjustable contrast for better sunlight readability
Large, soft keypad is easy to use, even in turbulence
No menus or memory banks—just type in the frequency
One-handed operation for fast emergency access
Unmatched battery life, powered by easy-to-find AAs
Quick-change battery pack—switch in just 3 seconds!
Backlit screen and keypad
Dedicated squelch and volume knobs for precise adjustment

COM

Last frequency flip flop makes it easy to switch back and forth
Visual memory recall shows five memory channels per screen

NAV

Full ILS display—the only portable radio with this feature!
VOR with large CDI display and automatic bearing-to-station readout

WEATHER

NOAA weather radio receiver built in
Nationwide coverage with pre-programmed stations

EMERGENCY

Dedicated 121.5 button for instant emergency communications
Sidetone—hear yourself talk when using a headset

Includes alkaline battery pack, antenna, wrist strap and instruction manual. Measures 5 1/2”h x 2 1/4”w x 1 5/8”d. Five year warranty.

SP-400 – more information