What pilots need to know about charging plugs, batteries, and cables

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Portable electronic devices have become more and more common on the GA flight deck since the turn of the century. From early GPS navigators gaining popularity in flight bags to a company offering a mini computer with a touchscreen that could make phone calls in mid-2007, these devices have improved safety as well as convenience when we fly.

What’s in my flight bag?

Every pilot has their preferred carry items - some ranging from simply a sectional chart and a headset to others carrying every piece of aviation technology they could possibly get their hands on. I find it best to travel somewhere in the middle.
Sentry

5 “must-have” products for IFR training

There are some products out there that can help make learning the art of instrument flying easier. Here are five products that you should have in your stable when you step into Instrument Rating training.  

Free training tools available in Sporty’s Pilot Training app

Sporty's Pilot Training app is the must-have resource for anyone who wants to improve their aviation skills. It's available on iPad, iPhone, Android devices, and even smart TVs like Roku and Apple TV. In addition to Sporty's complete courses (over two dozen are available), the app is also loaded with free tools for student pilots. Here's a look at some highlights.
SharePlay

Sporty’s launches suite of free flight instructor tools

Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course isn’t just for independent studying; a comprehensive CFI portal connects instructors with their students’ at-home study sessions, making the flight training process more organized and efficient. This suite of tools includes lesson plans, a flight instructor refresher course, and access to Sporty’s award-winning pilot training courses. Best of all, every feature is available free to any active flight instructor.

What’s new in Sporty’s 2023 Pilot Training Courses

Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course is used by tens of thousands of pilots every year and are famous for a relentless pace of innovation; every year, we add new content, new training tools, and new platforms. This year is no exception, with a number of significant upgrades that make training more engaging and more efficient. Here’s a look at some highlights.

Three exciting flight simulator stories we’re following

The last two years have witnessed a flurry of interest in the flight simulation realm, thanks mainly to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020.
Lightspeed Sierra

Three myths about active noise reduction headsets

One of the more significant equipment investments a pilot will…

Sporty’s Releases Updated Sport Pilot Course

Sporty’s popular Learn to Fly Course now features an updated and expanded Sport Pilot training module, ideal for student pilots training in Light Sport Aircraft (LSAs). In addition to new video segments and updated test questions, the course also includes interactive flashcards for checkride prep and a complete FAA library.

Video: best budget ANR headset for pilots

Every pilot needs a good headset, but not everyone wants to spend $1000 for one. Fortunately, there are some great options for under $700. Sporty's headset expert Doug Ranly shows off two of the best options in this Product PIREP video: the Faro Stealth 2 ANR and the Lightspeed Sierra.