Deck the Halls – with a Cub

/in /by

Sporty’s annual Christmas ornament announced

If you can’t have a Cub in your hangar, Sporty’s can at least provide one for your Christmas tree.

Sporty’s commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Piper Cub, and Sporty’s 2013 Legend Cub Sweepstakes, with this year’s crystal Christmas ornament. The limited edition collector’s item features an elegantly etched Cub in flight.

“You’d have to look far and wide to find a pilot who doesn’t like the Cub,” said Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “This year, we had an easy choice for our annual ornament.

Nearly 20,000 Cubs were built in the United States with dozens of civilian and military variants. Thousands of Cubs are still flying today.

Sporty’s Cub ornament comes with a bright red ribbon for hanging and is boxed for gift giving with some historical notes about the airplane.

The 2012 Sporty’s Crystal Christmas Ornament [9833-12A] is available for $24.95 and may be ordered at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

Download hi res EPS of 2012 Sporty’s Crystal Christmas Ornament

Say Goodbye to Flimsy Air Sickness Bags

/in /by

Finally! A 21st century barf bag

When you or a passenger starts to turn colors, reach for a Chuk-It.

Chuk-It is the better mouse trap of air sickness bags. Constructed of thick plastic with heat-sealed seams, Chuk-It is extra large and can be used with only one hand thanks to Chuk-It’s stay-open top.

Once used, Chuk-It’s zipper top seals securely ensuring no spills or smell in the cockpit. Not only is Chuk-It spill resistant, it won’t explode at altitude either. Chuk-It’s gusseted bottom allows it to stand upright until you can dispose of it.

“It’s not a glamorous product, but it’s one that has evolved over the years from the old-style paper bags now to the state-of-the-art Chuk-It,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman.  “Having some Chuk-Its on board is a great insurance policy. Chuk-Its contains the mess rather than creating an even bigger mess.”

Measuring 12-1/2” by 7”,  a three-pack of Chuk-Its [7254A] is available for $6.95 and a ten-pack of Chuk-Its is available for $14.95. All Sporty’s products may be ordered at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

Download hi res EPS of Chuk-Its

Sporty’s Electronic E6B Gets a Makeover

/in /by

Classic aviation tool now improved

Sporty's E6B

Over 240,000 pilots have trusted Sporty’s Electronic E6Bs over the years for fast flight planning and accurate FAA test calculations.

Sporty’s has given its best-selling electronic E6B flight computer a facelift, with a new rugged case and enhanced features. Sporty’s E6B now has a larger keypad and its own built-in storage case. Rubber feet have been added to keep the E6B from slipping during use, while a new backlit screen makes it useful for night operations.

“In this world of iPhones and iPads, don’t count out the E6B just yet,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “You can’t use your smart devices during an FAA Written Test, for example, but you can and should use Sporty’s Electronic E6B.”

Measuring 6.25”h x 3.25”w x 1”d, Sporty’s E6B uses three AAA batteries and also hosts a deluxe timer with local, home and Zulu time zones and a countdown timer for approaches. With 24 aviation functions and 20 aviation conversions, Sporty’s Electronic E6B is perfect for flight planning and in the cockpit.

Sporty’s E6B [7095A] is also a better value than ever, at just $59.95. It may be ordered by calling 1-800-SPORTYS or at sportys.com.

Download hi res EPS of Sporty’s E6B

Flying the Aspen Evolution now updated

/in /by
Sporty's Flying the Aspen Evolution DVD

Learn the latest features in Sporty’s Flying the Aspen Evolution video.

The popular Aspen Evolution has redefined glass panels in small airplanes, but going from steam gauges to a state-of-the-art glass cockpit can be overwhelming. Sporty’s Flying the Aspen Evolution program is a great way to learn the finer features of this revolutionary system.

This comprehensive program was recently updated with the addition of Evolution Synthetic Vision (ESV) displayed on the PFD and MFD which includes 3D terrain and obstacles, unusual attitude guidance, distance line and range markers, dynamic traffic display and the dynamic flight path marker.

“Now that thousands of general aviation pilots have upgraded their panels with Aspen, this video will help them use all the features and benefits Aspen offers,” says Sporty’s Academy President Eric Radtke.

In addition, Flying the Aspen Evolution examines electronic charts on the MFD, including approach charts, departure and arrival procedures and airport diagrams. Like all Sporty’s training programs, this video is chock-full of real-life flying scenarios so you can see the equipment in actual flying conditions.

“We go beyond the meat and potatoes of using this equipment,” adds Radtke. “We like to provide insights and tips that might have taken a user a dozen flight hours to learn.

Flying the Aspen Evolution is 75 minutes in length and covers all software updates between v2.0 and v2.5, including system control and display improvements on Aspen’s PFD and MFD. The program is available in DVD format [D535A], as an App and as a download [E535A] for $31.95 at sportys.com or by calling Sporty’s at 1.800.SPORTYS.

Download hi res EPS of video screenshot

Sporty’s Reaches Another Hot Dog Milestone

/in /by
Ian Seager eats Sporty's 200,000th hot dog.

Ian Seager of Flyer Magazine eats the 200,000th hot dog at Sporty’s.

Every Saturday, rain or shine, summer or winter since 1992, Sporty’s local and transient customers gather for free hot dogs at noon. The only change is whether the hot dogs are served inside or outside.

A few days before EAA AirVenture 2012 began, Sporty’s served its 200,000 hot dog to Ian Seager, publisher of the British aviation magazine Flyer. Seager had flown his Cessna 182 across the Atlantic and made a stop at Clermont County/Sporty’s Airport (I69) on his way to AirVenture in Oshkosh.

“To put this in aviation terms, if all the hot dogs Sporty’s served were laid end to end on our runway, we’d have 28 rows of hot dogs up and down 4/22,” says Michael Wolf, Sporty’s President and CEO.

Phil Boyer, former AOPA President and airport resident, ate the 150,000 hot dog five years ago. “We’ll have to plan something special for hot dog #250,000 – that will be a quarter million tube steaks all enjoyed by our customers and friends,” says Wolf.

Download hi res EPS image file

Stratus gets update, new accessories for even better performance

/in /by
Stratus ADS-B Receiver

Sporty’s Stratus has been updated for better performance.

Stratus, the portable in-flight weather receiver for ForeFlight that was launched to critical acclaim at Sun ‘n Fun, has been improved to provide increased performance.

“Relying on the uniformly excellent reviews and customer feedback we have received on Stratus, the teams at Sporty’s, ForeFlight and Appareo have worked hard to make it even better,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “With thousands of units in the field, we listened to customer comments to make upgrades.”

A new version of firmware is now available as part of ForeFlight Mobile version 4.6, a free download from the iTunes App Store. This new firmware extends the battery life, improves the accuracy of battery monitoring, provides faster GPS lock-on, and adds NEXRAD support for Alaska. The firmware updates are easy to apply since Stratus and ForeFlight Mobile are an integrated system. Once ForeFlight 4.6 is downloaded, the Stratus owner just taps a button. A computer connection is not required, and the entire process takes just a few minutes.

In addition, Sporty’s has created a custom RAM suction cup mount so Stratus can be located out of the way on a side or rear window. The mount still allows for the use of the optional power cable if desired. “This new mounting system provides pilots with an alternative to the glareshield which can become a harsh environment on hot summer days, and allows for better ADS-B reception,” says Zimmerman. “These changes have made a great product even better.”

A new carrying case for Stratus is also available. The slim neoprene case has enough room for Stratus and any cables, and is padded for protection. It fits easily inside a larger flight bag, or can be used on its own.

Stratus [7281A] is available for $799 while the Stratus RAM Mount [2288] is available for $34.95 and the Stratus Carrying Case [9074A] is available for $12.95. Stratus and its accessories may be purchased by calling 1-800-SPORTYS or at sportys.com/stratus. Although previously on back order due to strong demand, Stratus is back in stock and available for immediate delivery.

Download hi res image of Stratus and iPad

Download hi res image of Stratus firmware update

Download hi res image of Stratus case

Download hi res image of iPad screenshot

Sporty’s Pilot Shop Expands Oshkosh Presence

/in /by

Visit Sporty’s new display all under one tent

Sporty’s has expanded its EAA AirVenture presence for 2012 from an inside exhibit to a much larger tent location with even more products and enhanced displays. Located in space #260 in front of Hangar B, Sporty’s will have a huge array of products on display, including an on-going demonstration of the Stratus, Sporty’s new in-flight weather receiver.

Sporty’s on-site 1,200 square foot display includes a new headset demo station where customers can try on a wide range of headsets, side by side, without having to run from booth to booth. Customers interested in cockpit video can view demonstrations and get advice from the experts at NFlightcam. Also available will be a large assortment of GPSs, Flight Gear bags, pilot kneeboards, RAM mounts, radios and more.

Sporty’s AirVenture display will have experts available not just for products, but also on iPad flying. Customers can demo new apps and the latest iPad accessories. Some of Sporty’s CFIs will also be on hand to answer questions about learning to fly and to demo Sporty’s complete pilot training courses and other flight training products.

“Whether you’re learning to fly or looking for the latest iPad accessory, Sporty’s tent is the place to be at Oshkosh,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “We’ll also have some great show specials.”

iPad Flying Forums, Too

Two of Sporty’s resident iPad experts will present three iPad flying forums during AirVenture, all in Forum Pavilion #8. The forums are “Flying with the iPad and Accessories” on Thursday, July 26 at 1:00 p.m. and Friday, July 27 at 2:30 p.m. An additional forum, “ADS-B, Datalink Weather and the iPad,” will be presented on Thursday, July 26 at 2:30 p.m.

A forum on cockpit video cameras will take place Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. in Forum Pavilion #4.

“You can find the locations for Sporty’s store and the Forum Pavilions on Sporty’s free AirVenture app, available now for free download at Sportys.com/apps,” says Zimmerman. “Plus you can make your own schedule, get flying and driving directions, buy tickets and make a full plan for your own AirVenture experience. See you in Oshkosh.”

Download hi res EPS

Just Over Two Weeks to Go – Get Your 2012 EAA AirVenture App Now

/in /by
Sporty's AirVenture app for iPad and iPhone

Sporty’s 2012 AirVenture Oshkosh app is a free download for show attendees.

Sporty’s, EAA partner again to offer free show apps

Hundreds of exhibitors, forums and workshops, thousands of aircraft on display, daily airshows and other attractions. If you’re attending EAA AirVenture this year, you’ve got to go with a plan.

Sporty’s has made planning easier with the official AirVenture 2012 app for iPad, iPhone and Android. The free app contains all the maps, times, places and schedules to maximize the time spent in Oshkosh.

“AirVenture is way too big to arrive without a plan. There’s no way you can see and do everything just strolling around,” says Sporty’s Vice President John Zimmerman. “With Sporty’s app, you can chart your course ahead of time and design your days based on your own must-do’s and must-see’s.”

By using the app’s “My Schedule” feature, you can make an hour by hour itinerary for yourself, full of details, times, and locations. To keep current with last-minute additions, you can also access EAA news and twitter feeds as well as EAA Radio.

The 2012 AirVenture app includes an interactive exhibitors list and showgrounds map. Click on the name of an exhibitor and you will instantly be shown where that exhibit is located on the map, right down to the precise booth location.

“It’s easy to get frustrated wandering from pillar to post trying to find the location of 260, for example,” adds Zimmerman. “With the app, you can go direct.”

Of course, your free Sporty’s AirVenture app is useful even before the show starts. If you’re driving to the event, you can access directions and detailed parking information. You can also avoid long admission lines by buying advanced tickets through the app. Those flying to the show can stock up on supplies you need with a direct link to Sporty’s Pilot Shop.

The complete EAA AirVenture NOTAM is included for arrival and departure procedures as well as a convenient Understanding AirVenture ATC Guide and even special FBO offers. It’s perfect for in-flight reference and does not require an internet connection.

“Just stick your smartphone in your pocket or your tablet in your backpack, and you’re set for the day,” says Zimmerman. “Everything will be at your fingertips – maps, schedules, workshops, speakers, forums – all the components of a busy AirVenture.”

Sporty’s has also created apps for Sun ‘n Fun, AOPA Summit and the International Women in Aviation Conference.

Sporty’s 2012 AirVenture app is available for iOS and Android devices, including iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. The Android version of the app is designed for both phones and tablets, including the Kindle Fire. For more information, or to download the free app, visit sportys.com/apps.

Download hi res EPS of iPad and iPhone

Download hi res EPS of iPad

Download hi res EPS of iPhone

Download hi res EPS of Android phone

Sporty’s Celebrates 2012 Air Race Classic Finish

/in /by
Air Race Classic

Hal Shevers with the 2012 Air Race Classic winners, Dianna Stanger of Fort Lavaca, TX and Victoria Holt of Belton, TX, who flew a Cirrus SR-2

Over 100 air race pilots competing in the 36th annual Air Race Classic descended on the Clermont County/Sporty’s Airport last week, after flying a 2,330 nm cross-country course in four days. Starting on June 19, the aircraft left Lake Havasu, Arizona on a course that would take them east, north, and finally southeast to Sporty’s.

The first racers began to arrive early on Friday, June 22, and continued streaming in throughout the day. While waiting for their fellow racers, the women enjoyed the hospitality of Sporty’s and each other’s company. The winning team, based on fastest handicapped speed, was Dianna Stanger of Fort Lavaca, TX and Victoria Holt of Belton, TX, who flew a Cirrus SR-22.

The race continues the tradition of the transcontinental women’s air race, first held in 1929. After World War II, the race came to be known as the Powder Puff Derby before being reincorporated as the Air Race Classic, a 501(c)3 organization. Famous participants through the years include Amelia Earhart and Louise Thaden.

“These air racers are a competitive bunch,” says Sporty’s Founder and Chairman, Hal Shevers. “Sporty’s was honored to host the terminus in 2001, and we’re glad to roll out the welcome mat for such a spirited group once again.”

As a major event sponsor, Sporty’s was proud to host a hangar party and dinner on Saturday night. Air Race Classic participants were treated to a fun evening, including musical entertainment by students from the University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music (CCM) and a special operatic performance arranged by one of Sporty’s flight instructors who also is a professor of voice at CCM. The evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks show.

For more information on the Air Race Classic, including finishing times for all race teams, visit www.airraceclassic.org.

Download hi res EPS of race airplanes parked

Download hi res EPS of winners

Download hi res EPS of party

New iPad Briefcase is Perfect for High-Tech Pilots

/in /by

Go from cockpit to office to home with the compact Pilot’s iPad Briefcase.

Sleek case holds iPad and accessories, but takes up virtually no space

With the tremendous popularity of the iPad, many pilots are carrying less gear with them in the cockpit. Stacks of paper charts and heavy manuals have been replaced by a single tablet–and flight bags need to adapt. That’s why Sporty’s has introduced the new Pilot’s iPad Briefcase. It’s perfect for iPad pilots who travel light, as it organizes and protects expensive electronic gear, but without a bulky shape.

A soft padded main compartment is the perfect size for an iPad, even if you keep your iPad in a case. A variety of internal and external pockets are ideal for storing a charging cable, cleaning cloth, backup battery and stylus.

The Pilot’s iPad Briefcase offers two options for carrying it. For lighter loads, two carry handles can be used. For heavier loads, the carry handles retract out of sight and a padded shoulder strap can be attached.

Measuring 12” x 9” x 2”, the Briefcase [7285A] is available for $39.95 and may be ordered at sportys.com or by calling 1-800-SPORTYS.

 

Download hi res EPS of iPad Briefcase