Sporty’s is the official merchandise provider for the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association

Diverse range of products reflects the spirit and vision of COPA

Sporty’s is proud to announce that it is now the official provider of merchandise for the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association (COPA). The newly unveiled merchandise collection features a diverse range of high-quality products, designed to resonate with COPA members and supporters. From stylish apparel to sleek accessories, each item has been meticulously crafted to reflect the spirit and vision of COPA.

polo shirt

Diverse range of products reflects the spirit of COPA.

“Our members have long been the backbone of our organization, and we’re excited to offer them a tangible way to show their support and pride while also contributing to our cause,” said COPA President, TJ Shembekar.  “With this merchandise line from Sporty’s, we aim to not only elevate the COPA experience, but also further our mission of education and safety.”

The COPA logo is available to embroider on a wide range of merchandise that includes, but is not limited to:

Quality Polos: From TravisMatthew, Nike, and Eddie Bauer, a variety of polo shirt styles, designs and colors are available for men and women.

Signature T-shirts: Made from a blend of quality materials, moisture wicking t-shirts offer comfort and performance while showcasing your COPA pride.

Stylish Accessories: Hats and visors in a variety of colors offer protection, shade and style, whether you’re on the flight deck or walking across the ramp.

In addition to allowing supporters to wear their affiliation proudly, each purchase from the merchandise line directly contributes to COPA’s efforts to promote safety and goodwill toward the general aviation community.

The merchandise is available now for purchase at Sportys.com/COPA or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Mark Wiesenhahn
[email protected]

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:

COPA Ladies Stretch Top Polo

COPA Ladies Stretch Top Polo

COPA TravisMathew Oceanside Polo

COPA TravisMathew Oceanside Polo

COPA Nike Micro Pique 2.0 Dri-FIt Long Sleeve Polo

COPA Nike Micro Pique 2.0 Dri-FIt Long Sleeve Polo

COPA Nike Featherlight Cap

COPA Nike Featherlight Cap

 

 

 

Convert your consumer ANR headset for flightdeck use with the NFlight NOMAD

NFlight NOMAD

The NFlight NOMAD allows you to attach a microphone to a consumer headset for aviation use.

Microphone attaches to consumer headsets for convenience and flexibility

Many pilots find themselves carrying two headsets—one for use on the flight deck, and one for everyday use. The NFlight NOMAD allows you to leave your aviation headset behind without compromising safety, clarity or performance, using a high-quality microphone.

Designed with the needs of modern aviators in mind, the NOMAD microphone attaches to the outside of popular consumer grade ANR headsets, like the Bose QC25, QC35, and QC45 with 3M Dual Lock Circles. The noise-canceling, electret microphone provides the audio output into your aircraft’s intercom system, while a small, 2.5mm plug, inserted into the headphones, provides the audio input for quality sound.

By seamlessly integrating with existing consumer headsets, this compact yet powerful accessory eliminates the need to carry a bulky aviation headset, without sacrificing quality or reliability. The NOMAD is especially useful in the low-noise environments found in modern jets and for professional pilots who may transition from the flight deck to the cabin on a single trip.

“We are thrilled to offer the NFlight NOMAD, a game-changer in aviation communication,” says Sporty’s Director of Aviation Products Doug Ranly.  “By combining a quality, high-performing microphone with your existing travel headset, the NOMAD sets a new standard for convenience and flexibility among pilots.”

The NFlight NOMAD features standard twin-plug (PJ-style) 3/16-inch and 1/4-inch aviation connectors.  The cables measure approximately 78” in length, while the flexible boom microphone is approximately 8”. The standard, included accessories are a shirt clip and two extra 3M Dual Lock Circles.

The NOMAD Pro version also includes a stereo/mono switch, dual volume controls, and a 3.5mm aux input with cable that allows a wired input from a tablet or phone to receive audio alerts. The NOMAD Pro with TSO’d microphone includes all the same great features of the NOMAD Pro plus a David Clark M7A microphone for professional pilots, who may be required to utilize an approved microphone.

The NFlight NOMAD Classic [5857] is available for $249.99, while the NOMAD Pro [6102] is available for $349.99.  Professional pilots may wish to opt for the NFlight NOMAD Pro with TSO’d microphone [20687], available for $449.99.  The NFlight NOMAD product line can be purchased at Sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Mark Wiesenhahn
[email protected]

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:

NFlight NOMAD

The NFlight NOMAD allows you to attach a microphone to a consumer headset for aviation use.

NFlight NOMAD

The NFlight NOMAD allows you to leave your aviation headset behind without compromising safety, clarity or performance.

NFlight NOMAD

The standard, included accessories are a shirt clip and two extra 3M Dual Lock Circles.

NFlight NOMAD Pro

The NOMAD Pro version also includes a stereo/mono switch, dual volume controls, and a 3.5mm aux input with cable that allows a wired input from a tablet or phone to receive audio alerts.

NFlight NOMAD Pro with TSO'd Microphone

The NOMAD Pro with TSO’d microphone includes all the same great features of the NOMAD Pro plus a David Clark M7A microphone.

 

Sporty’s introduces new book – Learn to Fly: A Comprehensive Guide to Private Pilot Training

Everything a pilot needs to know for a successful learning experience

Learn to Fly Book cover

Learn to Fly is filled with honest advice from Sporty’s team of instructors.

Sporty’s is thrilled to announce the release of Learn to Fly: A Comprehensive Guide to Private Pilot Training. Filled with honest advice from Sporty’s team of flight instructors, this book is the aspiring pilot’s introduction to the fascinating world of aviation and a step-by-step guide to the flight training process. From finding a flight school to dealing with training setbacks to acing an airline interview, readers will learn detailed tips for success.

Learn to Fly is an essential reference for pilot training, whether learning to fly for fun or to launch a career. Written with clarity and expertise, and loaded with color graphics and helpful checklists, this comprehensive guide also includes dozens of helpful links to expand the reader’s knowledge online.

Read a sample from Sporty’s Learn to Fly book here.

“Whether you’re a novice or have dreams of becoming a professional pilot, Learn to Fly provides invaluable insights to help explore the skies,” said Sporty’s President, John Zimmerman. “Our experienced teaching team offers a passionate and unique perspective on the nuances of the flight training process, making it the perfect companion for anyone embarking on their aviation journey.”

Learn to Fly also explores the personal growth and transformation that accompany the pursuit of flight. Readers will experience the support and camaraderie forged among fellow aviators, the thrill of overcoming self-doubt, and the profound sense of accomplishment that comes with earning a pilot’s license.

Learn to Fly: A Comprehensive Guide to Private Pilot Training [M573] is offered in a convenient digital (ebook) format or in paperback for just $4.99. The digital version is a free resource as part of Sporty’s online Learn to Fly Course; the print version is available at Sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

 

Media Contact:

Mark Wiesenhahn
[email protected]

Additional photos:

Learn to Fly Book cover

Learn to Fly is filled with honest advice from Sporty’s team of instructors.

Learn to fly checklist

Learn to Fly includes helpful checklists to help guide you through the process.

learn to fly checklist

Learn to Fly includes helpful checklists to help guide you through the process.

how to choose a flight school

Learn to Fly includes helpful comparisons for choosing a flight school.

Elevate your flying experience with Flight Gear Collapsible Sunshades

The ultimate accessory for safety and comfort

sunshade

Bid farewell to the harsh sun glare and heat with Sporty’s sunshade.

Bid farewell to the harsh sun glare and heat that can make your flights uncomfortable. Sporty’s Flight Gear Collapsible Sunshades are designed to maintain a cool and comfortable interior for your aircraft with quick, convenient installation. Their versatile, lightweight design ensures compatibility with a wide range of flight deck layouts.

Crafted from top-quality UV-resistant materials, the sunshades serve as your aircraft’s shield against the sun’s harmful effects. What’s more, the sunshades also help to protect pilots from harmful ultraviolet radiation, mitigating the risk of eye strain and long-term sun damage.

Setting up the collapsible sunshades is a breeze. They are robust and ingeniously designed for hassle-free installation, ensuring instant relief. When not needed, the shades can collapse in seconds, allowing pilots to quickly adapt to changing light conditions during flight.

“Pilot Sunshades offer unparalleled protection against glare and harmful UV rays, ensuring optimal visibility and safety for flights of all durations,” says Sporty’s Director of Aviation Products, Doug Ranly. “These sunshades are also engineered to withstand the rigors of aviation environments while providing maximum comfort for pilots.”

Each set of collapsible sunshades includes two semi-transparent window covers and a storage bag for added convenience and portability.  When expanded, each window cover measures approximately 20” x 12”. The storage bag measures approximately 7” in diameter.

Sporty’s Flight Gear Collapsible Sunshades [8595A] are available for $14.95 per set and may be purchased at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

sunshade

Sporty’s sunshade is easily installed for quick relief.

Media Contact:

Mark Wiesenhahn
[email protected]

Additional photos:

New Limited Edition Diecast Models Available from Sporty’s

Meticulously crafted collection showcases iconic aircraft

Cessna 172 diecast model

The Cessna 172M Skyhawk model was inspired by an aircraft manufactured in 1974 and now owned by the Southeastern Minnesota Flying Club.

Pilots and aviation enthusiasts will enjoy these limited-edition diecast models from Sporty’s. Crafted with precision and passion, Sporty’s diecast models boast unparalleled accuracy and authenticity.

The Cessna 172M Skyhawk model was inspired by an aircraft manufactured in 1974 and now owned by the Southeastern Minnesota Flying Club. Originally test-flown in 1955 and still in production today, more Skyhawks have been manufactured than any other aircraft in history. This model features detailed printed graphics, realistic landing gear, see-through flight deck, and even a rotating propeller. 

The second edition of the diecast Piper J-3 Cub line is replicated from a Piper Cub stationed at the Flying W Airport (N14) in Lumberton, New Jersey.  This airplane is owned and operated by Joe Costanza, an airline pilot and avid Cub flier. Costanza (@Bananasssssssss) has a prominent YouTube and Instagram presence.

Piper Cub diecast model

The Cub is modeled from a 1941 JF-65.

The Cub is modeled from a 1941 JF-65, originally powered by a Franklin engine but later equipped with a Continental A-65-8 and a Sensenich wooden propeller. One of the most influential airplanes of all time, the iconic Cub is one of general aviation’s true classics. Initially manufactured from 1938-1947, more than 20,000 Cubs were built—and many are still flying today.

“Our goal is to celebrate the legacy of aviation and inspire a new generation of pilots and enthusiasts with these aviation treasures,” said Sporty’s Director of Aviation Products, Doug Ranly. “With our meticulously crafted diecast models, we aim to evoke the wonder of flight while paying homage to the iconic aircraft that have shaped aviation history.”

Both limited edition diecast models include a display stand that allows you to customize the flight configuration. The Cessna Skyhawk and Piper Cub models are 1:72 scale replicas and measure about 4” in length with a wingspan of 6”. 

The 2024 Limited Edition Cessna Skyhawk [7907] and the Piper J-3 Cub [8135] diecast models are available for $54.99 each. You may purchase the Skyhawk online at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.  

Additional photos:

Cessna 172 diecast model

The Cessna 172 diecast model includes a display stand.

Cessna 172 diecast model

The Cessna 172 diecast model features detailed printed graphics, realistic landing gear, see-through flight deck, and even a rotating propeller.

Piper Cub diecast model

The Piper Cub diecast model includes a display stand.

Piper Cub diecast model

The Piper Cub diecast model features detailed printed graphics, realistic landing gear, see-through flight deck, and even a rotating propeller.

iPad Cleaning Cloth Enhances the Pilot Experience

Cloth doubles as an important flight resource

Pilot's iPad Cleaning Cloth

The iPad Cleaning Cloth can be used for all of your aircraft’s screens and also functions as a flight resource with important reference information printed on both sides.

The iPad has become an indispensable flight deck resource, and keeping it clean is important for performance, hygiene and safety. Sporty’s offers the Pilot’s iPad Cleaning Cloth to ensure a clear display and prevent the buildup of dirt and fingerprints.

Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate on the screen and buttons, which can hinder performance or cause malfunctions over time. Regular cleaning helps ensure the smooth operation of your device and extends its longevity. Additionally, touchscreens can harbor bacteria and germs, especially if you use your iPad frequently, touch it with unwashed hands, or share it with multiple users. Regular cleaning can reduce the spread of germs and keep your device hygienic.

“A clean iPad offers a better user experience,” remarked Sporty’s Director of Aviation Products, Doug Ranly. “A smudge-free screen makes it easier to see critical, flight-related information, and responsive buttons and ports improve reliability.”

The iPad Cleaning Cloth can be used for all of your aircraft’s screens and also functions as a flight resource with important reference information printed on both sides. Pilots can instantly access basic VFR weather minimums, cruising altitudes, intercept procedures and more. Sporty’s exclusive iPad PreFlight Checklist printed on the cleaning cloth will help to ensure the iPad is ready to fly.

A single Pilot’s iPad Cleaning Cloth [1730A] is available for $4.95 or fill your flight bag by purchasing three or more for $3.95. You may purchase at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS. 

Additional photos:

Pilot's iPad Cleaning Cloth

Keeping your iPad clean is important for performance, hygiene and safety.

Pilot's iPad Cleaning Cloth.

The Pilot’s iPad Cleaning Cloth serves as an important flight resource with information printed on both sides.

Flight Gear Bite Light Offers Hands-Free Flight Deck Illumination

Innovative flashlight provides dual illumination with bright white light and gentle red light

Bite Lite

Bite Light offers hands free flight deck illumination.

Having both hands available on the flight deck is essential, so using a hand to hold a flashlight can compromise safety. The Flight Gear Bite Light was specifically designed to solve this problem with an innovative silicone bite ring on the back so the light can be comfortably held in your mouth, freeing up your hands for other important tasks.

The unique features don’t stop there, because pilots require a bright white light for preflight and postflight activities, as well as a soft red light for flight deck operations. Independent switches for these two modes of illumination on the Bite Light ensure you select the light that’s appropriate for your needs.

The ultra-bright light selection will pierce the darkness with 500 lumens–perfect for preflight on a dark ramp—or you can choose to dim the light to conserve battery life. The gentle red light selection also provides two levels of brightness, all while preserving your night vision.

“Pilots are typically reaching for their flashlight during a critical situation such as an electrical failure, when having both hands available is a necessity,” says Sporty’s Director of Aviation Products Doug Ranly. “The Bite Light solves this problem without having to chomp down on metal.”

Pilots can forget about the hassle of batteries, as the Bite Light offers the convenience and dependability of a rechargeable battery, featuring USB Type-C charging. Measuring less than 5” long, the durable, yet compact, Bite Light can fit in your pocket, so it’s always within reach.

Sporty’s Flight Gear Bite Light [6743A] is available for $49.95 and may be purchased at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

Additional photos:

bite light

Bite Lights is hands-free for added safety.

 

Bite Light

Bite Light offers a soft red light to preserve night vision.

Bite Light

Bite Light offers the convenience of rechargeable batteries.

Bite Light

Bite Light is compact, yet durable.

February is IFR Month at Sporty’s

IFR month will highlight instrument flying with new content and product specials 

Throughout the month of February, Sporty’s will be celebrating IFR Month, a month-long focus on the challenges and rewards of instrument flying. In addition to special savings on pilot gear, Sporty’s will offer interactive webinars, articles, instrument flying videos, and answers to common IFR questions. The goal is to encourage pilots to earn their instrument rating, get current, and enjoy more utility from their pilot certificate.

“Instrument flying has always been important to Sporty’s, beginning with Founder Hal Shevers and his innovative three-day ground school in the early 1960s,” said Sporty’s President John Zimmerman. “We’re excited to celebrate IFR Month as a way of building on that heritage and encouraging pilots to explore the fascinating world of instrument flight.”

IFR Month will be celebrated across Sporty’s Media Network including Flight Training Central, Sporty’s Air Facts, iPad Pilot News and Sporty’s Product PIREPS blog. Each will include articles, videos, and quizzes on instrument flying topics. Webinar topics include passing the instrument rating knowledge test, using home flight simulators for instrument proficiency and a fun, fast-paced 20 question test of your IFR knowledge.

Limited time IFR Month specials will be available on a variety of products, including Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course. This comprehensive course, newly updated for 2024, is available on virtually all mobile platforms and includes engaging IFR training, free lifetime updates, dedicated test preparation modules, and an extensive IFR reference library.

Sporty’s is offering a series of IFR video tips and other free resources and special savings from Pilot Workshops. Additionally, Sporty’s will be featuring the YouTube video series, “IFR Insights,” hosted by airshow pilot and instrument flight instructor Spencer Suderman. In each episode, Suderman shows how to use modern tools to make IFR flying safer and easier. Sporty’s team of flight instructors will also be answering common instrument flying questions daily on everything from getting rated to staying current.

“There will be something for all experience levels during IFR Month,” said Zimmerman. “Whether it’s preparing for the instrument written test, using a simulator to get current, or just flying a precision approach, there’s always something to learn or perfect in instrument flying.”

Sporty’s IFR Month runs from February 1 through February 29. For more information, and a complete list of content, events and specials, visit Sportys.com/IFR.

Medium resolution pictures for online:

IFR low approach

ILS approach with runway lights

IFR YouTube video series with Spencer Suderman

 

Call for Entries: The Sixth Annual Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots

The Richard Collins family has once again partnered with Sporty’s to offer The Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots. To qualify, the writer must be a pilot (including student pilot) who is 24 years of age or younger.

AeroWear, A Premium Apparel Brand From Sporty’s, Launches New Styles

A new collection of polo shirts is now available from AeroWear™, with five vibrant styles to choose from. This upscale apparel brand, available exclusively from Sporty’s, combines modern performance fabrics with tasteful aviation styling. AeroWear offers a refreshing and inclusive approach, welcoming individuals from all walks of life to experience the exciting world of aviation. These shirts are suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a day at the office, an afternoon on the golf course, or a long day in the cockpit.