After years of utilizing the unique Flight Gear luggage, I used to be curious (and just a little skeptical) after I heard Sporty’s had utterly redesigned the road. However after flying with a number of of the brand new fashions over the previous month, I can confidently say that is greater than a refresh—it’s a complete reimagination.
What’s new?
The iPad bag is my go-to for fast flights within the native space.
The brand new Flight Gear line is made for working pilots. It’s not about bells and whistles; it’s about considerate design that makes a distinction on the ramp and on the flight deck. Sporty’s constructed every bag round how pilots truly fly—not how entrepreneurs suppose we do (Sporty’s truly talked to pilots about what they wished). Meaning pockets the place you want them, rugged supplies that maintain as much as flight coaching abuse, and versatile choices relying in your mission.
I began with the iPad Bag, which has been my go-to for fast flights within the native space. It’s compact however nonetheless matches my iPad Professional, backup battery, charging cables, kneeboard, and even a spare radio. The devoted headset hanger inside is a great contact, and the vertical form means it’s simple to slip between seats or beneath the panel with out taking on useful house.
For cross-country flights or a full-day of classes, the Twin Headset Duffle has been a workhorse. With room for 2 headsets, a change of garments, and a few snacks and water, it’s best for instructors or college students flying a number of legs. The bag holds its form properly even when empty and doesn’t sag like some older luggage I’ve used.
For pilots on the transfer
I’m a backpack man after I’m touring on the airways, and the Tailwind hits all the appropriate notes.
I’ve additionally examined the 2 new travel-ready designs: the Tailwind Backpack and the Sling Pack. Personally, I’m a backpack man after I’m touring on the airways, and the Tailwind hits all the appropriate notes—it’s sharp, organized, and has simply sufficient construction to maintain the whole lot in place with out feeling cumbersome and it slides proper beneath the seat as a private merchandise.
When you’re extra of a minimalist, the Sling Pack is a good possibility. It’s modern, light-weight, and simple to swing round whenever you want entry to your necessities on the go—best for grabbing your iPad, charger, or sun shades throughout a terminal dash or whereas exploring a fly-in vacation spot.
Constructed to final
Each bag within the new line is constructed with sturdy water-repellent nylon, beefy zippers, and strengthened stitching the place it counts. I’ve tossed these luggage round within the hangar, slid them throughout the ramp, and stuffed them in a packed 172—all with out a single rip or damaged zipper. It’s clear these had been designed by pilots who’ve truly lived by way of a Midwest winter.
Backed by a guaranty
One other good bonus? Every bag comes with a three-year guarantee, which is greater than most gear in your flight bag can declare.
Closing ideas
Flight Gear luggage have at all times been useful, however this new line steps issues up by way of type, ergonomics, and mission-fit. Whether or not you’re a pupil pilot, a busy CFI, or simply somebody who appreciates a modern design, there’s doubtless a Flight Gear bag that matches your flying.
These aren’t flashy luggage, however they’re not speculated to be. They’re instruments—and after flying with them, I’d say they’re nicely value a spot in your airplane.
You’ll be able to view your entire line at Sportys.com/FlightGear.
It was his first airplane journey at age seven that made Eric determine to grow to be a pilot. “Whereas boarding the airplane, a flight attendant seen my curiosity within the flight deck and urged me to go speak to the pilot. I give a variety of credit score to that pilot for my profession alternative.” Eric earned a bachelor’s diploma in finance and went on to an airline profession. He realized to fly at Sporty’s as a part of the College of Cincinnati’s Skilled Pilot Program, an initiative he later directed.Eric now manages Sporty’s media community together with FlightTrainingCentral.com. As well as, Eric serves as a Captain in a Cincinnati-based company flight division.
