The 2025 Gear of the Year Winners from Sporty’s

Every year, hundreds of new products make their way into the cockpit—but only a few stand out as must-haves. Sporty’s Gear of the Year winners are selected by both pilots and its team of expert staff. These are the tools and gadgets that actually get used, get talked about, and make flying easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Here’s a look at the 2025 winners:

Most Popular ADS-B Receiver: ForeFlight Sentry

This compact receiver hits the sweet spot for price, capability, and portability. With WAAS GPS, dual-band ADS-B weather and traffic, built-in AHRS, a CO detector, and long battery life, it’s a complete situational awareness package.

Best Portable Radio: PJ2+

The only handheld radio with built-in PJ headset jacks on top, so you can plug in directly without adapters. A large display, oversized keypad, and USB-C charging make it easy to use anywhere in the cockpit.

Best Watch: Garmin D2 Air X15

A smartwatch designed for pilots. It’s packed with aviation features, a bright color touchscreen, fitness tracking, notifications, and even a built-in flashlight for night ops.

Best Backup Battery: Flight Gear Smart Battery Pack MAX (27,600 mAh)

This high-capacity battery keeps your iPad, ADS-B receiver, and other gear powered all day. Multiple USB ports and a real-time power display make managing cockpit electronics easy.

Best New Online Course Feature: ChatCFI

Imagine having a flight instructor on call 24/7. ChatCFI lets you ask questions during videos or practice tests and get instant answers without leaving the course.

Best Hidden Gem: Flight Gear Magnetic Charging Cable

These cables use built-in magnets to stay neat and organized—no more tangled cords in your flight bag.

Best Flashlight: Flight Gear Rechargeable Smart Flashlight

With red and white lighting options, a floodlight, battery display, and versatile clip, this flashlight is ready for any preflight, postflight, or emergency situation.

Best Flight Bag: Flight Gear Stealth Bag

Durable, all-black, and built to carry everything from headsets to laptops, this bag is perfect for busy training days or weekend trips.

Top Aviation Gift Product: Solar Powered Runway Lights (Blue), Set of 6

A fun addition for pilot offices, hangars, or desks. These solar lights are colorful, practical, and perfect for day or night display.

Best Headset: Lightspeed Zulu 4

Comfortable, high-tech, and connected. FrameFit™ ear seals, dual Bluetooth, and an AI-enhanced mic make it ideal for long flights in the cockpit or simulator.

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Flight Training Central Staff

Flight Training Central publishes original content for pilots and students, including articles, video tips, quizzes, industry news, and webinars. We also maintain a comprehensive Scholarship Directory, connecting you to hundreds of awards. Stay informed with our free email newsletter featuring the latest posts and updates.

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