Sporty’s Releases Updated Flight Review Course

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Sporty’s Releases Updated Flight Review Course

New video segments make course the perfect at-home refresher

Sporty’s has updated and expanded its popular Flight Review Course, adding new content focused on flight proficiency and stick and rudder skills. The addition of flight maneuvers training, featuring step-by-step instructions, helps pilots prepare for the flight portion of their next flight review and also makes a great review for anyone who hasn’t flown recently.

“We know that many pilots’ flight time has been limited lately,” said Sporty’s Academy President Eric Radtke. “We believe this updated course is a valuable resource for staying current and preparing for a summer filled with flying.”

A number of new video segments have been added, including: tips on using the Graphical Forecast for Aviation, a review of the latest requirements for ADS-B transponders, a detailed look at crosswind landings, tips on how to recover from less than perfect landings, and practical advice for better slow flight and stalls. When combined with existing segments—like flying with iPads in the cockpit, flying under BasicMed, ADS-B weather, and runway safety—Sporty’s Flight Review Course is a complete refresher. It’s packed with over two and a half hours of dynamic video and animations, plus an interactive review quiz and a helpful document library.

Under new FAA regulations, some pilots are able to extend their flight review expiration for up to three months, in part by completing three FAA safety courses. Many of Sporty’s courses, including Flight Review, are accepted by the FAA for WINGS credit, making them an easy and affordable way to satisfy the new training requirements.

Sporty’s Flight Review Course [#E401A] is available for $39.99. It can be accessed, along with all of Sporty’s course offerings, on Sporty’s award-winning Pilot Training platform. This provides the ultimate flexibility by allowing pilots to train using the device that works best on any given day: access online in a web browser, in Sporty’s Pilot Training app for iOS and Android, on AppleTV or RokuTV. Access to all platforms is included and course progress always stays in sync. For more information or to purchase a course please visit Sportys.com/PilotTraining.

 

 

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Limited Edition Sporty’s Skyhawk Die-Cast Model Available

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Limited Edition Sporty’s Skyhawk Die-Cast Model Available

Model fashioned after Sporty’s flightline Skyhawk

Sporty’s die-cast Skyhawk model is a reminder for many pilots of their student pilot days. For others, the Skyhawk is simply a well-loved aircraft model.

First flown in 1955, and still in production today, more Skyhawks have been built than any other aircraft. This 1:72 scale die-cast replica features detailed printed graphics, realistic landing gear, see-through cockpit, and a rotating propeller.

An included display stand lets you customize the flight configuration. Officially licensed by Cessna, this model measures four inches long with a six-inch wingspan.

“You’d be hard-pressed to find a pilot who hasn’t flown a 172,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “This model is a fantastic memento from many pilots’ training experience.”

Sportys’s Cessna 172 Skyhawk Die-Cast Model [5445W] is available for $49.95 and may be purchased at wright-bros.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

 

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Sporty’s Extends Headset Test Flight Guarantee to 60 Days

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Sporty’s Extends Headset Test Flight Guarantee to 60 Days

Many pilots have seen their flight time greatly reduced or even paused during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sporty’s wants to help reassure pilots they will have ample time to evaluate their headset purchase and has increased the duration of their popular Test Flight Guarantee from 30 to 60 days. This guarantee now gives pilots additional time to take their headset flying and make sure it’s the right choice.

“During these difficult times, we realize it may take longer than normal to evaluate a purchase,” said John Zimmerman, Sporty’s Pilot Shop Vice President. “We want our customers to feel confident that they will have the necessary time to try out their new headset in real world conditions.”

The Test Flight Guarantee is just one of several tools Sporty’s makes available for pilots to choose and purchase a headset. There are extensive buying tools available at sportys.com, including headset webinars, detailed blog posts, and even a dedicated pilot advisor ([email protected]) to answer additional questions. Pilots can also count on same day shipping, guaranteed lowest prices, and convenient payment options—including PayPal financing that offers no interest for six months.

Participation in the Test Flight Guarantee is automatic and is included with the purchase of any headset from Sporty’s. Customers can take their new headset flying and make sure it’s the right choice for them and their aircraft. If they are not thrilled, customers simply return the headset within 60 days in the same condition as purchased. Sporty’s will exchange it for another headset or refund the purchase price, at the direction of the customer.

Sporty’s is an authorized dealer for Bose, Lightspeed, David Clark, Sigtronics, Telex, Clarity Aloft, Faro, and ASA headsets. To see the complete selection, visit sportys.com/headsets.

Sporty’s offers FREE online Flight Instructor Refresher Course (FIRC) to support CFIs

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Sporty’s offers FREE online Flight Instructor Refresher Course (FIRC) to support CFIs

Provides effective, convenient CFI renewal option during challenging times

Many lives have been turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic and the aviation community has been hit particularly hard. Flight and ground instructors are without students and may be facing an additional hardship when it comes to renewing their flight instructor certificates. That’s why Sporty’s is pleased to offer its online eFIRC FREE as a convenient, effective, online renewal option.

Created by the instructional staff at Sporty’s Academy, Sporty’s eFIRC is universally accessible on PC, Mac, and mobile devices including iPad and Android platforms through the web browser. There is no software to install. Simply log-in anywhere there’s an internet connection and begin training. 

“Sporty’s eFIRC was developed from scratch with today’s modern CFI in mind so you won’t find just a rehash of regulations and dry FOI theory,” says Sporty’s Academy President Eric Radtke. “Rather, you’ll learn about topics pertinent to today’s flight training environment.”

Sporty’s eFIRC contains 16 lessons, each broken down into learning modules for ease of study.  Topics range from emerging technology to loss of control, from regulatory changes and updates to new weather products. Another module contains important information about accepting remote pilot or student pilot applications and additional relevant content to keep you current.  Each lesson has a corresponding quiz to assess your progress.

Also included is an extensive reference library with quick access to certification standards, advisory circulars, regulations, handbooks and more. And the progress dashboard will keep you apprised of your study progress and quiz scores.

New to Sporty’s eFIRC is the CFI Endorsement Guide – plain language guidance on what endorsements are required for your students and when they will apply. The CFI Endorsement Guide is abbreviated to quickly access endorsements you’ll use most often and meets the latest advisory circular information.

With the option of paperless ACR service, flight instructors who complete Sporty’s online FIRC have the option for Sporty’s to process their CFI renewal paperwork from within the course, and issue a temporary certificate – all from the convenience of your home or office. Ground instructors may also receive a graduation certificate to meet the recent experience requirements.

Upon course registration, access to Sporty’s eFIRC [6481-OA] is available for one year FREE. The paperless CFI renewal service is available for $24.95.

To enroll or for an interactive course demonstration, visit sportys.com/firc. 

 

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Sporty’s Awards Latest Flight Crew Scholarship

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Sporty’s Awards Latest Flight Crew Scholarship

Graduating high school senior receives $2,500 award to advance his qualifications

Vedant “Vedu” Ruia, of Tampa, FL, is the latest recipient of a $2,500 scholarship awarded through his membership in Sporty’s Flight Crew program. Ruia recently earned his Private Pilot certificate from Atlas Aviation at the Peter O. Knight Airport (KTPF) near Tampa. He currently pilots a Kolb Super Pelican light sport airplane based at the Tampa North Aero Park (X39).

“I’ve wanted to be a pilot for as long as I can remember,” remarked Ruia. “My career goal is to work for a large aerospace company at the intersection of business and aviation.” Ruia will graduate high school this spring and has plans to enroll in an industrial or aerospace engineering program.

Ruia saved for nearly four years to fund his Private pilot training, primarily tutoring youth in mathematics and flute performance. “I have a passion for teaching people skills that I possess,” Ruia commented. “One of the most satisfying aspects of teaching for me is seeing students succeed.”

Ruia will use his award to begin Instrument training at Global Pilot Academy in Tampa. He hopes to pursue his passion for teaching as a flight instructor and later, a designated pilot examiner. Because he has always been a nervous test-taker, Ruia hopes to help alleviate the added pressure students often experience that comes with checkride day through an empathetic and understanding approach to his evaluation technique.

Sporty’s Flight Crew is a three-level customer benefit program that rewards customers with access to training programs, unlimited free shipping, an on-call personal Sporty’s shopper, and more. The top two levels (gold and platinum) include the opportunity to apply for a $2,500 flying scholarship.

It’s easy to enroll as a Sporty’s Flight Crew member by visiting sportys.com/flightcrew.

 

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Sporty’s offers virtual fly-in to help pilots stay engaged

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Sporty’s offers virtual fly-in to help pilots stay engaged

Learning opportunities, show specials, and video airshow all available this week

The Sun ‘n Fun Fun Aerospace Expo may be postponed until May, but Sporty’s is trying to help pilots get in the spring flying spirit while they’re at home. This week Sporty’s will be offering a variety of remote learning options, savings on popular pilot supplies, and even the chance to virtually ride along with airshow pilot Patty Wagstaff via YouTube.

“While some pilots are grounded right now, there are plenty of flying adventures to come later in the year,” said Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “This is a great time to get ready for a return to the skies and we hope we can do our part to keep pilots connected to aviation.”

Sporty’s is providing a number of free resources to help pilots stay current. Pilot’s Guide to Airspace, an hour-long video course, is available at no charge for a limited time. It can be viewed online or in Sporty’s Pilot Training app for iOS, Android, and smart TVs. There’s also a review quiz at the end, and the option to request FAA WINGS credit. Visit sportys.com/airspace to sign up.

Sporty’s is hosting a live “Flying with the iPad” webinar on Thursday, April 2, at 2pm eastern. The latest tips about flying with electronic flight bag apps will be shared, including new iPad models and datalink weather strategies. Visit sportys.com/webinars to sign up.

A number of new aviation YouTube videos have also been released for on-the-go learning, including a helpful Product PIREP video on using a home flight simulator and a new series, called Touch & Go, which offers quick tips on popular products. Visit youtube.com/sportysvideos to watch any of Sporty’s 250+ videos.

For pilots looking to upgrade their gear, Sporty’s is offering a number of “show specials.” The long list includes $50 off Sporty’s courses, a free Bose SoundLink Mini II speaker with the purchase of a Bose aviation headset, savings on Flight Gear bags, and much more. Visit sportys.com/specials to see the complete list.

Of course, pilots need to have some fun, too. While the Blue Angels aren’t flying this weekend, Sporty’s has partnered with aerobatic champion Patty Wagstaff to film one of her breathtaking airshow routines. You can ride along with her as she performs snap rolls, lomcevaks, tailslides, and other stomach-churning maneuvers. For additional training, Sporty’s also offers an Intro to Aerobatics course with Wagstaff. Visit sportys.com/aerobatics.

For a complete list of promotions, visit sportys.com/virtualflyin

 

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Air Facts Announces Winner of Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots

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Air Facts Announces Winner of Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots

Chandler Webb of Oregon wins $2,500 prize

Chandler Webb, a 19-year old commercial pilot from Oregon, is the winner of the second annual Richard L. Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots. His article, “Pilot in Command,” was selected as the entry that best answered this year’s writing prompt: “an event that changed or shaped the author’s flying.” Chandler’s article recounts a long cross-country flight with his mother and father that didn’t go as planned, and the valuable lessons he learned.

When the family encountered changing weather conditions en route, Chandler and his father (also a pilot) were unsure who the real pilot in command was, and the Cessna 182 entered clouds. As Chandler admits, he was afraid to be assertive “because I was the ‘kid.’” He eventually found a hole and landed safely. It was a mistake, but he says, “never again will I let anyone question my authority as the Pilot in Command.” The winning article may be read in full at airfactsjournal.com.

Air Facts Editor John Zimmerman awarded Chandler the $2,500 prize to encourage his aviation and writing pursuits, and the winning article was published in Air Facts. Chandler is currently an instrument-rated commercial pilot who works for Van’s Aircraft in their Aircraft Assembly Division, but his interest in flying started early: he started flying when he was 14, soloed at 16, earned his Private Pilot certificate at 17, Instrument Rating at 18, and Commercial certificate at 19. He has big plans for the future too, including earning his Associate of Applied Science degree in the fall, finishing his CFI and CFII, serving a mission for his church, earning an A&P rating, and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in aviation management. His eventual goal is to start his own aviation business.

The Richard Collins Writing Prize for Young Pilots is funded through the royalties from Collins’s book sales and is augmented by contributions from his children, Richard, Jr. (who was also one of the judges), Sarah and Charlotte.

Air Facts began publication in 1938, edited by Richard’s father, Leighton Collins, and was the magazine starting point for such authors as Wolfgang Langewiesche, Bob Buck, Bill Mauldin and Richard Bach. Sporty’s relaunched Air Facts as an online magazine in 2011.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sporty’s Introduces Commercial Pilot Test Prep Course

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Sporty’s Introduces Commercial Pilot Test Prep Course

Pilots are guaranteed to pass their knowledge test, oral exam, and checkride

Sporty’s latest training course will help pilots earn a Commercial Pilot certificate, an essential step on the way to a job as a flight instructor or an airline pilot. Like all Sporty’s courses, the Commercial Pilot Test Prep Course includes multiple formats for the same low price: iPhone, iPad, Android, and online. Progress always stays in sync between formats, and course access never expires.

Sporty’s powerful test prep tools will help pilots ace the knowledge test, with an exclusive database of over 800 test questions. Pilots can choose individual categories or study random questions. “From the moment you begin answering questions, the course will learn your strengths and weaknesses,” says Sporty’s Academy President Eric Radtke. “That’s when our Smart Study Session tool is so valuable: you can focus on those topics that need the most work and spend less time studying questions you already know.”

Passing the written test is only the first step, though, and Sporty’s course goes far beyond basic quizzes. The team of flight instructors at Sporty’s has created 420 detailed oral exam prep flashcards, which cover a wide variety of topics and display only the question. Click the flashcard to flip it over and see the answer, complete with a link for further study. Just like the knowledge test section, pilots can study only marked or missed flashcards, plus take Smart Study sessions for focused review. 

The course also includes a Checkride Checklist, which walks applicants through all the endorsements and documents needed for checkride day. This is an easy way to make a good first impression with the examiner.

The final step on the path to earning that new certificate is the flight test. Sporty’s Commercial Pilot Test Prep Course includes 36 video segments, with detailed animations describing exactly how to perform all the maneuvers on the checkride. From chandelles to lazy eights, each segment provides step-by-step instructions, Airman Certification Standards for successful completion, and common errors to avoid.

Finally, a complete document library is included, ideal for initial study or follow-up after the checkride. This includes the Commercial Pilot Airman Certification Standards, a complete flight training syllabus, relevant sections of the Airplane Flying Handbook, and much more.

When pilots have passed two practice tests with scores of 80%, the flight instructors at Sporty’s will automatically provide the required written test endorsement, so they can go right to the testing center.

Sporty’s Commercial Pilot Test Prep Course [#E249A] is available for $149.99. It can be accessed, along with all of Sporty’s course offerings, on Sporty’s award-winning Pilot Training platform. This provides the ultimate flexibility by allowing pilots to train using the device that works best on any given day: access online in a web browser or in Sporty’s Pilot Training app for iOS and Android. Access to all platforms is included and course progress always stays in sync. For more information or to purchase a course please visit sportys.com/commercial.

 

 

 

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The Sporty’s Foundation Releases its Annual Report for 2019

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The Sporty’s Foundation Releases its Annual Report for 2019

Sporty’s continues to show leadership in philanthropic efforts within aviation

The Sporty’s Foundation made bequests totaling $219,500 during 2019 to fulfill its goal to attract young people to the aviation community both as a career and a lifestyle. The Foundation also supports organizations and museums that preserve the rich history of aviation for future generations.

The Sporty’s Foundation has issued its most recent annual report, detailing activities and bequests during 2019 and may be seen online at SportysFoundation.org.

The Sporty’s Foundation continues as a major sponsor of EAA’s successful Young Eagles program from a financial commitment to complement Sporty’s making its award-winning Learn to Fly course available at no charge to all Young Eagles.

The Sporty’s Foundation also continues its focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) activities, by financing more than a dozen scholarships to deserving young people pursuing an aviation course of academic study and flight training.

This past year also saw a $20,000 bequest to the University of Cincinnati to provide aviation scholarships. An additional $15,000 was donated to EAA for improvements and enhancements to Aviation Explorers’ base camp, located on EAA grounds and where hundreds of Aviation Explorers spend time enjoying AirVenture and becoming part of the show by volunteering.

“We are proud of our no-overhead administration of our foundation and encourage donors and potential donors to examine our IRS Form 990, which we have posted at the foundation’s website,” said Sporty’s Founder and Chairman Hal Shevers. “Sporty’s assumes 100% of those administrative expenses so every donated dollar goes directly to the programs we support.”

Online contributions are being accepted, either as a one-time payment or a recurring monthly donation. As a 501(c)(3) foundation, all donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. For more information on The Sporty’s Foundation, visit SportysFoundation.org.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Sporty’s Collaborates with Patty Wagstaff to Launch New Aerobatics Course

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Sporty’s Collaborates with Patty Wagstaff to Launch New Aerobatics Course

Improve your stick and rudder skills with this entertaining course

Sporty’s has partnered with airshow legend Patty Wagstaff to introduce an all-new course that focuses on the art and sport of high-performance flying. Perfect for any pilot who has ever wondered what it’s like to fly a loop or considered taking an upset recovery course, Intro to Aerobatics with Patty Wagstaff puts viewers in the cockpit for a thrilling look at flight beyond straight and level.

More than just a list of maneuvers, this course explores the history of aerobatics, what the industry looks like today, differences between aerobatic airplanes, and tips for getting started. Then Patty shows off all the maneuvers, from basics like loops and spins to advanced maneuvers like hammerheads and lomcevaks. Stunning HD video shows every maneuver in Patty’s Extra 300, and is supplemented by sophisticated animations. Special 360-degree video segments allow pilots to pan around during flight as if they were sitting in the cockpit.

The course also features two of Patty’s colleagues, experienced aerobatic instructor Allan Moore and airshow performer Spencer Suderman, as they demonstrate maneuvers in a Super Decathlon and Pitts Special.

Intro to Aerobatics course [#E312A] is available for $49.99. It can be accessed, along with all of Sporty’s course offerings, on Sporty’s award-winning Pilot Training platform. This provides the ultimate flexibility by allowing pilots to train using the device that works best on any given day: access online in a web browser, in Sporty’s Pilot Training app for iOS and Android, on AppleTV or RokuTV. Access to all platforms is included and course progress always stays in sync. For more information or to purchase a course please visit sportys.com/aerobatics.

 

 

 

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