Eric Radtke
It was his first airplane trip at age seven that made Eric decide to become a pilot. "While boarding the airplane, a flight attendant noticed my interest in the flight deck and urged me to go talk to the pilot. I give a lot of credit to that pilot for my career choice." He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and went on to an airline career. Eric now heads Sporty’s flight school and directs the University of Cincinnati’s Professional Pilot Training Program. In addition, Eric serves as a Captain in Sporty’s corporate flight department.
Friday photo: special flight with dad
After my father was diagnosed with terminal cancer, I made it my goal to earn my private pilot's license and take him as my first passenger for our last adventure together. The day after my successful checkride, I flew him down to see family near Colorado Springs. It was one of the last weeks he could leave the house, and he passed away a few months later.
Friday photo: Richard Pember private pilot checkride
The moment: Private pilot checkride
The pilot: Richard Pember (right)
The place: Southern Wisconsin Regional Airport (KJVL), Janesville, WI
The aircraft: C172S
The memory: I’ve wanted to fly since...
Flying with the iPad as your digital copilot – new webinar recording
Sporty's recently hosted a webinar presentation on iPad proficiency on the flight deck including a wide range of practical topics on flying with the...
Stop dreaming, start flying!
Thinking of becoming a pilot? A surging demand for pilots, technological advancements, and access to modern learning resources make for an ideal time to begin your journey. The demand for professional pilots has never been greater. Recent data indicates that pilot certification changes and increased demand for air travel have had far-reaching industry effects.
Friday photo: Wilkes Ellsworth first solo
I have wanted to fly an airplane my entire life and can honestly say it was one of the happiest and most fulfilling days I have ever experienced. I can't wait to continue my training and see where it and the aircraft will take me next.
Friday photo: Matt Crossty private pilot checkride
From a young age my Dad taught me the joys of flying. My Dad and I would watch the flight operations at CVG. Ever since then I knew becoming a pilot was something I wanted to do. Now it’s a dream come true.
Friday photo: Joan Manuel De La Cruz private pilot checkride
The moment: Private pilot checkride
The pilot: Joan Manuel De La Cruz
The place: North Palm Beach County General Aviation Airport (F45), West Palm Beach, FL
The...
Combining IFR and visual flight
If we didn’t have access to the variety of visual IFR procedures or the option for VFR flight, the system would quite simply be overwhelmed. Where the breakdowns and inefficiencies occur, can often be attributed to a lack of awareness on the part of pilots or failure to take advantage of our options for combining IFR and VFR flight.
Friday photo: Joseph Ermel private pilot checkride
It was a thorough and fun exam. After months of diligent studying, practicing, and preparation, I felt confident enough and was proud of my deliverance. My mind was set on earning my PPL for years, and I worked hard to get to this point to succeed. I am grateful for all of the support I've received over the years from my mentors - and especially my Grandfather, Arnold Zimmerman (EAA 205374.) Now on to the Instrument ! See you on the Flightline!
Friday photo: Priscilla Marapodi Commercial Multiengine checkride
The moment: Commercial Multiengine checkride
The pilot: Priscilla Marapodi
The place: Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport (KMYF), San Diego, CA
The aircraft: Beech Duchess
The memory: I’m very happy for...
