Video Tip of the Week
Fun Flying Videos
Webinar Videos
Getting Started Tips
How to become a pilot – a learn to fly checklist
The process of learning to fly can seem overwhelming at first. But you can do it, and our team of flight instructors here at Sporty’s can help. That’s why we’ve developed this quick checklist of key steps.
Quizzes
Pilot Gear
Video: how to watch Sporty’s courses on Roku and Apple TV
Sporty’s Pilot Training app is your single source for the best aviation training, on iPad, iPhone, Android, and on your smart TV. Join Bret Koebbe from Sporty's Video Production team to learn about how to access your Sporty's Pilot Training Courses on AppleTV and Roku. It's an easy way to watch the latest aviation training videos from the comfort of your couch.
Video: testing out the Lightspeed Tango wireless headset
There are dozens of aviation headsets on the market right now, but only one is wireless. Lightspeed's Tango model allows you to cut the cord, using a proprietary wireless technology and rechargeable batteries. How does it work? We took it flying recently to find out.
Video: how to use Sporty’s Electronic E6B Flight Computer
Join Sporty's Doug Ranly for a hands-on look at how to use this popular flight computer. You'll see three common functions step-by-step, plus tips for converting Fahrenheit to Celsius.
Resources
Student Pilot Store
Similar to fishing, camping, rock climbing, or boating, getting the right gear for flying is almost as important (and as fun) as the actual activity. At Sporty's, we've operated our own flight school for decades, so we know what student pilots need - and what they don't.
Sporty’s Academy
Sporty's Academy, our on-site flight school, is a premier Pilot Training Center located at the Clermont County Airport in the eastern suburbs of Cincinnati, Ohio. We welcome students from all over the world who are looking for the finest flight training experience.
Learn to Fly Course
There's a lot to learn as a new pilot, but the good news is you can do much of that learning on your own schedule. In between flight lessons, a good home study course is an invaluable tool. You can review your previous lesson, learn the theory behind the maneuvers you fly and prepare for the FAA written test.
More Articles
Webinar video: Garmin Weather Radar Fundamentals
Join Garmin Aviation to learn more about weather radar operational principles, industry best practices and operational considerations and techniques for all phases of flight. This presentation also addresses the features and functions of three of Garmin’s airborne weather radar systems: GWX 70, GWX 75 and GWX 80, as well as techniques employed for managing weather threats.
Ask a CFI: how can I incorporate the iPad into my flight training?
Welcome to Ask A Sporty's CFI, where we talk to the 25 flight instructors we have on staff at Sporty's Academy to get their...
Friday photo: Steven Horney first solo
I completed my first solo on December 8, 2018 at the age of 58. Flying has been a life-long dream for me, starting around the age of 5. During my teen years, my father (a very experienced Air Force pilot, CFI, and CFI-G) began giving me some formal flight lessons, but then I went off to college, got married, etc., and I had to be content with flying model aircraft for a lot of years.
Video: how to watch Sporty’s courses on Roku and Apple TV
Sporty’s Pilot Training app is your single source for the best aviation training, on iPad, iPhone, Android, and on your smart TV. Join Bret Koebbe from Sporty's Video Production team to learn about how to access your Sporty's Pilot Training Courses on AppleTV and Roku. It's an easy way to watch the latest aviation training videos from the comfort of your couch.
Quiz: Do You Know Your Airspace?
As they say, nothing is for certain except death, taxes, and airspace. Whether you fly big iron through the flight levels, or go low and...
Video: how to waterski an airplane (and why you probably shouldn’t)
You've probably seen the videos on YouTube, with taildraggers skimming the water with their big tires as they approach to land. In this honest video, Trent Palmer explains why it's done, how to do it safely - but also why you probably shouldn't do it. A fun and fascinating look at a common bush pilot trick.
If faced with an engine failure, remember your ABCs
While complete engine failures are not common, the stakes are high which is why pilots train extensively for such occurrences and why they get evaluated as part of a checkride. If faced with an engine failure, or training for your next engine failure with your instructor, act quick and decisively by remembering what you learned in kindergarten – your ABCs.
Friday photo: Tasha Farmer first solo
The moment: My wife's first solo
The pilot: Tasha Farmer
The place: Livingston County, Spencer J. Harvey Field (KOZW), Howell, MI
The aircraft: Diamond DA-20
The memory: On...
Webinar video: instrument proficiency check
Flying IFR is a great way to enhance the utility of your pilot certificate, but it takes commitment and practice. If you want to get current again, stay sharp, or just learn more about instrument flying, this webinar recording is a great place to start. It's packed with over an hour of practical tips and honest advice from two senior flight instructors at Sporty's.
Video: understanding pilot slang, from roger to wilco
What's the difference between roger and wilco? What does "5x5" mean? What phrase should you never utter on the radio? Join Sporty's senior flight instructor Charlie Masters for a light-hearted review of some common pilot slang. At the very least, you'll be able to keep up with your fellow pilots at the next hangar flying session.
