The A20 is set to cease production in less than a year. More and more professional cockpits are ditching the molded earpiece and boom mic for a ProFlight, but the model generates fewer sales because of its defined market.

Although Chris Wuerfl, Bose’s business development manager, did not reveal a new aviation product, he expressed a general wish that one would be forthcoming. However, it would seem that the one-year anniversary of the Bose A30 headset was reason alone for the company to celebrate here at the Sun ’n Fun Aerospace Expo (SNF) this week. According to Wuerfl, the product has been well received. 

• READ MORE: Bose A30 Aviation Headset Review

Like all of the company’s headsets, the A30 was designed to reduce noise fatigue. Bose claims that the unit has a slightly higher degree of effectiveness. A touted 20 percent reduction in clamping force, in addition to a headband with larger cushions that span a greater area, are also attributes. The clamping attribute is a game-changer for me, because for whatever reason, Bose headsets eventually begin to pinch the top of my head.

One feature of the A30 that the competition hasn’t added is the ability to swap the position of the mic from one side to the other. The headset allows this to be performed gracefully by simply pulling and replugging without the use of a tool. Although for GA use this feature isn’t a must, after more than four decades of flying professionally, it just seems awkward to have the boom mic always on the left side no matter what seat you occupy in the cockpit.

• READ MORE: Bose A30 Takes the Pressure Off

Testing the unit at SNF was a good experience, considering the volume of ambient noise. The quality of sound was superb. In addition to the standard volume controls, the A30 control box contained a slide switch that allowed for the ambient noise reception to be increased or decreased by selecting low, medium, or high. Movement of the slide didn’t dramatically change the reception with my degraded hearing, but perhaps a noisy cockpit would make it more apparent. Simply tapping a couple of times on either headset cup accomplishes the same task. This feature is probably more of an asset in a professional environment when you need to hear another pilot, flight attendant, or mechanic.

Bose maintains a five-year warranty on all of its headsets. If a headset is out of warranty, $225 is a one-size-fits-all refurbishment fee. The consumables, like ear cushions and mic covers, can be purchased as a service kit for $49.95. (The SNF show special is $35)

No one can argue that Bose set the standard for ANR equipment. The A30 continues to maintain that standard.  

The post One Year After Debut, Bose A30 Headset Well Received appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

We’ve created this curated list to help you narrow down the ideal present for the aviator in your life. From certified pilots to aviation enthusiasts, there is a unique gift to satisfy every interest.

Have fun browsing these handpicked aviation gifts. Remember, it’s the thought behind the gift that truly matters.

Quick Look: 8 of the Best Gifts for Pilots and Anyone Who Likes Aviation

• Best aircraft models: Midwest Model Store
• Best aviation merchandise: Aeroswag
• Best magazine subscription: FLYING Magazine
• Best flight sim PC: DogHouse Systems Flying Edition
• Best aviator smartwatch: Garmin D2 Mach 1 Pro
• Best aviation headset: Bose A30
• Best flight bag: Flight Outfitters Lift Bag
• Best aircraft for sale: Aircraft For Sale

Gift Ideas That Pilots and Aviation Enthusiasts Will Love

Whether your gift recipient is a pilot or an aviation enthusiast, these gift ideas are sure to put a smile on their face.

Midwest Model Store

Best for: Aircraft models

Midwest Model Store is renowned for its extensive collection of commercial airline aircraft models. The company also offers high-quality scale models of vintage aircraft like the P-51 Mustang and military jets like the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Whether your gift recipient is an airplane collector, aviation enthusiast, or simply appreciates the beauty of these models, Midwest Model Store provides an impressive selection.

Price: $45.99 and up

Aeroswag

Best for: Aviation merchandise

Aeroswag offers a variety of aviation-themed products, including phone cases, coffee mugs, stickers, mouse pads, socks, tumblers, and more. Aeroswag even allows you to turn your gift recipient’s favorite airport into customized products like T-shirts, hats, and towels. Whether they’re a pilot, avgeek, or just love aviation, Aeroswag has something personal and unique for everyone.

Price: $4 and up

FLYING Magazine

Best for: Magazine subscription

A FLYING Magazine subscription is an amazing gift for aviation lovers. Each issue is a little collectible, with its high-quality paper, striking visuals, airplane-themed cover, and engaging content. FLYING is committed to bringing its readers the highest quality of aviation information, including daily digital content developed for pilots and aspiring pilots. The magazine offers annual digital and print subscriptions, which also include 12 hard copies and/or digital replicas of the magazine.

Price (per year): Digital only ($29); Print and digital ($45); Bundle  ($149)

DogHouse Systems Flying Edition

Best for: Flight sim PC

If your gift recipient is into tech, then DogHouse Systems and FLYING have you covered with this DogHouse Systems Flying Edition turn-key flight sim rig. Everything needed to get solid performance with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and X-Plane 12 is built into this comprehensive system. Further customization, including added storage, is available for an additional cost.

Price: $4,695

Garmin D2 Mach 1 Pro

Best for: Aviator smartwatch

The Garmin D2 Mach 1 Pro premium smartwatch features a brilliant 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen display and up to 25 days of battery life. This watch houses a red and white light LED flashlight with multiple levels of intensity. In the air, the watch provides pilots with aeronautical information, such as airport data and direct-to navigation. Pilots can also get aviation weather, flight logging, and pulse oxygen monitoring alongside many other features when they’re on the go. For their life outside of flying, the watch includes 30-plus sports apps, 24/7 health monitoring, and advanced sleep monitoring. It’s like having a flight bag on their wrist.

Price: $1,399.99

Bose A30

Best for: Aviation headset

The Bose A30 offers high-quality performance every pilot appreciates on their flight, including unparalleled comfort, unmatched audio clarity, active noise cancellation, and certified durability. Plus, the headset’s optional Bluetooth interface and tap control for talk-through communication offer versatility for pilots across all cockpits, from general aviation to commercial airline operations. New features also give pilots more control over the headset’s active noise reduction performance, microphone location, and power source.

Price: $1,299

Flight Outfitters Lift Bag

Best for: Flight bag

If your gift recipient has all the pilot supplies but needs a new place to store them, then this Flight Outfitters Lift Bag is perfect. Custom embroidery is available for an additional $9.95 to make the bag distinctively unique, but you should allow up to two additional business days for personalization. This sturdy bag has room for all the pilot essentials and is compact enough to not get in the way while in the airplane.

Price: $99.95, plus $9.95 for custom embroidery

Aircraft For Sale

Best for: Aircraft for sale

Aircraft For Sale by FLYING is the most trusted place to buy and sell aircraft, aviation real estate, and aircraft spare parts. If you’re seriously considering purchasing an aircraft, Aircraft For Sale has 24/7 customer support, easy financing options, and a wide range of listings to help you navigate a successful transaction. Additionally, if you’re curious about an aircraft’s market value, the PlanePrice valuation tool available on the Aircraft For Sale website offers aircraft insights based on over 4,000 data points.

Price: Varies

Get Ready to Buy that Perfect Gift for a Pilot or Flying Fan

We hope you enjoyed browsing this handpicked selection of aviation-themed gifts. Now, have fun shopping. Skip the long store lines and add any one of these unique gifts to your virtual cart before they’re gone.

FAQ

What gifts do pilots like?

Pilots like both fun and practical gifts. Fun gifts can include an aircraft model, a T-shirt, or a magazine subscription. Practical gifts can include a smartwatch, a headset, or a flight bag.

What to get aviation lovers?

Aviation lovers appreciate plane-themed and aviation-related gifts. From wooden propellers, whiskey decanters, and leather bomber jackets to knickknacks like keychains, bookends, coasters, and neckties, there is a gift for everyone.

What do you get the pilot in your life?

Different gifts cater to different preferences and stages of a pilot’s career. Before you invest in a gift for the pilot in your life, check with them to ensure it will meet their unique needs.

The post The Best Gifts for Pilots and Really Anyone Who Likes Aviation appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Whether you have a pilot in need of the right gear for their next flight, or if you’re looking for a fun gift from the kids, we’ve got you covered! Keep gift giving both enjoyable and effective. 

Types of Gifts to Consider for Pilots

From useful cockpit accessories to silly apparel for around the house and more, the best gift for your favorite pilot is just a click away.  

Watches

Aviation watches can vary greatly, both in price and function. If you’re looking for a deep dive into aviation watches, check out our guide for best pilot watches. To find the best one for the pilot in your life, you need to know the features they need, both in flight and on the ground. 

In-Flight Gifts

From the right water bottle or coffee mug to keep you hydrated to portable chargers and more, the best on-duty pilot gifts are at your fingertips. Make every holiday fun with the right gift(s) for the pilot(s) in your life! 

Apparel

Ensuring the comfort of the pilot in your life is important. With the right gifts, it’s something you can take charge of with confidence.

Sunglasses

Constant clear vision is a must when flying. Finding the best sunglasses for a pilot doesn’t have to be a chore if you know the style and needs they like.

Travel Bags

Every pilot has their own preference when it comes to the travel bag they want on their flight. Knowing the different features of each can help you determine which will make the best gift for the pilot in your life. 

Toys

No matter the age, career, or hobby, toys are always fun. Keep the pilot in your life young with entertaining aviation accessories and toys that are fun for all. 

Keychains

Keychains are a very beneficial tool for any pilot. Sentimental keychains continue to grow in popularity for pilots who use them both on the job and at home. Make sure your pilot knows they’re always on your mind.

Best Watches Gifts for Pilots

Logging flight time is a breeze when you have the best watch. Gift the pilot in your life a stunning and functional timepiece they’ll use for years to come. 

AVI-8 Men’s AV-4011 Hawker Hurricane 

Inspired by the rich history of military aviation, the Hawker Hurricane is the watch for the pilot in your life. The hardware under the sleek watch face is dependable Japanese quartz that allows for smooth movement on every flight. 

What We Like: Precise performance

Pricing: $210.00 – $235.00 (Price varies depending on color)

Garmin D2 Air X10

Easily pair a Garmin D2 Air X10 with the Garmin Pilot app and your pilot will have access to their flight plans right on your watch. The versatile watch is hard to beat and should be at the top of the list for student, private, and professional pilots. 

With airport information at your fingertips, you never have to question a runway layout again! 

What We Like: Features galore: pulse oximeter, logbook functions, aviation weather, and more

Pricing: $499.00

Bell & Ross Aviation

Bell & Ross doesn’t disappoint with their high-tech aviation collection. The modern aviation design of this watch gives appeals to pilots and this Swiss made beauty has the hardware to keep it running as long as you can fly. 

Easy to read with even the busiest of hands, when you treat your pilot to this sleek watch, it’s sure to accompany them on all of their flights.

What We Like: Superluminova®- numerals and indices on dial 

Best Travel Bag Gifts for Pilots

The right flight bag is an essential piece of equipment and it’s a great gift to give any pilot!

Flight Outfitters Lift XL Flight Bag

Is the pilot in your life looking for a versatile flight bag? Then the Flight Outfitters Lift XL Flight Bag is the one for them! With removable pockets and compartments, this 4-in-1 bag that can be customized to store what you need!

What We Like: Laptop Compatible, FLYING Branded

Pricing: $129.95

Lightspeed Aviation – The Markham

The size of this flight bag makes it functional for every pilot, even on days you aren’t out flying. It comes with plenty of pockets and storage for your headsets, flight logbooks, radios, and more. 

Stay organized with this durable and beautiful flight bag from Lightspeed Aviation. 

What We Like: Outstanding quality and function

Pricing: $249.00

Alpine Swiss Rolling 17” Briefcase on Wheels

When a normal carry on is too big, this rolling briefcase keeps every pilot moving quickly. Pilots love the secure laptop protection and with plenty of room, this bag helps you stay organized, no matter the flight.

What We Like: Lightweight and sturdy 

Pricing: $109.99

READ MORE: The 5 Best Luggage Bags for Pilots

Best In-Flight Gifts for Pilots

Finding the most useful flight deck accessories is no longer a hassle. Below are a few of the best on-duty gifts for any pilot. 

A New Pair of On-Duty Shoes

For pilots who work in aviation professionally, a comfortable pair of dress shoes is essential. Breathability, comfort, and style all married into one.

What We Like: These shoes are great for all-day wear, and are stylish with any uniform!

Pricing: $179

A Comical Pilot T-Shirt

You can not go wrong with a funny pilot T-Shirt that can help stir up conversation. Take a look at this catalog of funny pilot t-shirts.

What We Like: Who doesn’t like a T-shirt that produces a smirk?

Pricing: $16.45

VFR Sectional Mug of Home Airport

Whether your pilot loves coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, keep them happy with this VFR sectional mug of their home airport. The easy to grip handle makes it a smooth grab anytime you need it on the flight deck or the car. This makes a great gifts for pilots to show off their home airport.

What We Like: You can get a sectional mug of any airport in the country. 

Pricing: $12.34

The Pilot’s Pen 

Constantly dealing with low-light on the flight deck? This high-quality LED pen will end that struggle. The silver metallic finish keeps it sleek and functional.

What We Like: Includes additional ink cartridges and batteries

Pricing: $17.95

Portable Charger

No matter how prepared you might be, at some point, your batteries will run low. Make sure the pilot in your life doesn’t stress about it. Put the Anker PowerCore Portable Charger in their flight bag. This compact charger weighs less than a pound, making it easy to take on any flight. 

What We Like: Ultra-High Cell Capacity allows for multiple charges.

Pricing: $59.99

Best Apparel Gifts for Pilots

From undergarments to outerwear, a pilot’s apparel is important to ensure their comfort on the flight deck. Keep your pilot feeling good every time they’re in the air with our great apparel gifts for pilots. 

Air Force A-2 Leather Flight Bomber Jacket 

This insulated bomber jacket keeps you warm anytime you’re in the cockpit and it makes a great addition to any pilot’s wardrobe. The jacket is made of a soft leather that fits well and keeps you comfortable whether you’re in the air, or in the car on the way to the airport. 

The smooth lining also makes taking it on and off a breeze wherever you are. 

What We Like: Dual entry pockets for ease of access

Pricing: $149.99 – $369.99 (Price depends on size and color) 

Premium Aviation Socks – 3 Pack  

A seam rubbing on your toe can irritate anyone, and when you’re flying an airplane or helicopter, you’re often left to sit with it. The seamless toe closure on these socks helps you avoid that, while the polyester blend keeps you comfortable in the air or at home. 

They also have the extra cushion with the long lasting look any pilot will love!  

What We Like: Arch support, reinforced toe and heel

Pricing: $32.95

Ugly Christmas Sweater for Pilots

When you’re looking for that hard to find gift for the pilot in your life, the Ugly Christmas Sweater for Pilots should be added to your cart instantly. This warm sweater will keep them comfortable whether they’re out flying on Christmas or cozying up at home with family. 

When gift giving gets hard, this fun sweater puts a smile on any pilot’s face. 

What We Like: Who else is going to get it for them? 

Pricing: $43.37 – $59.95

Easily pair a Garmin D2 Air with the Garmin Pilot app and your pilot will have access to their flight plans right on your watch. The versatile watch is hard to beat and should be at the top of the list for student, private, and professional pilots. 

With airport information at your fingertips, you never have to question a runway layout again! 

Sticking to a budget? Check out the Best Pilot Gifts for Under $100

Best Sunglasses Gifts for Pilots

Whether driving to the airport, hangar, or flying the aircraft, clear vision is a must for every pilot. The best sunglasses make every flight more enjoyable.

Ray-Ban Classic Aviator – RB3025

These iconic Ray-Ban sunglasses have been providing pilots clear views for decades. The pilot in your life will love the protection they’ll have from glare, whether in flight or on the ground. This lens delivers the trusted eye protection you need at any angle. 

Varying lens and frame options available. 

What We Like: Classic and effective

Pricing: $161.00

Randolph Classic Aviator

These rugged sunglasses were built to fit the fast-paced lifestyle of pilots. With plenty of lens and frame colors to choose from, you can be sure to find a pair that will fit your pilot’s taste perfectly. 

When the aviator look is desired, the Randolph Classic Aviator is the durable go-to you can rely on to hold up, whether you’re wearing them or tossing them in your flight bag!

What We Like: Lifetime warranty

Pricing: $219.00

Serengeti Velocity 

These sunglasses are incredibly lightweight, yet deliver the durability that’s key for any pilot. When you want to improve your vision in the cockpit, the Serengeti Velocity sunglasses are your go-to. You won’t sacrifice comfort or vision when you have these in your flight bag! 

What We Like: Adjusting Photochromic lenses

Pricing: $235.00

Best Toys for Pilots

Keeping flying fun is part of our goal. These gifts can do that for your favorite pilot! 

MyPilotPro Swivel Mount for GoPro

While some may not define this option as a toy, pilots throughout the world continue to have a blast with this gift! It allows you to turn your GoPro any angle or direction with ease. 

Record any flight you pilot with this durable GoPro mount.

What We Like: Easily attachable and detachable

Pricing: $79.95

Scale model of their favorite airplane

Is the pilot in your life the pilot in command of an aircraft that they would like to display proudly? Maybe they are a fan of some of the beautiful general aviation models out there. From airliners with unique liveries to single engine pistons, a 1:200 or 1:400 or even a 1:72 scale model of their favorite aircraft would be an excellent gift for pilots.

What we like: the realistic details of the scale models

Pricing: $67.95

Pilot Joke Book

Who doesn’t love a good joke? This pilot joke book is a great choice for aviators of all experience levels. 

Filled front to back with jokes aviation enthusiasts will appreciate, this is the book your pilot needs when they have downtime in the air or on the ground. 

What We Like: Like “Dad” jokes for pilots! 

Pricing: $6.99

Best Keychain Gifts for Pilots

Small and mighty, a sentimental keychain could say all you need while being a useful accessory for the pilot you love. 

Airplane Bottle Opener

When the flight is over and the cockpit has been filled by a new pilot, make sure your pilot is ready with the airplane bottle opener. 

This is a great gift for the pilot ready to rehydrate on the road or at home. The compact size keeps it useful and easy to take along. 

What We Like: Comes ready to gift in sleek and stylish gift box

Pricing: $7.47

Set of “Always Under the Same Sky” Keychain

This heartfelt set of keychains reminds those close to your pilot that wherever they are, they’re always under the same sky. Never feel too far away with this sentimental pilot gift.

What We Like: Great gift for your significant other or friend! 

Pricing: $10.98

Outfit Your Favorite Pilot with the Perfect Gift Today! 

There is certainly no shortage of gifts for the pilot in your life. There are essential gift options that can ease the hassles of everyday flying, and more sentimental pieces that touch even the toughest of pilots. 

At FlyingMag, we aim to please every pilot in your life, so when the time comes to put a smile on your favorite pilot’s face, subscribe to our newsletter and make sure you find the best pilot’s gift there is. 

The post What Are the Best Gifts for Pilots? appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Picking a gift for anyone can be a daunting task. Pilots and aviation enthusiasts can be especially hard to shop for, until now. Below are some of our top picks for the best gifts to give to the aviation enthusiast in your life. Whether they be an airplane lover, a student pilot, or a professional aviator, these gifts are sure to be loved by all avgeeks. 

Quicklook: Gift Ideas for Aviation Enthusiasts

1. Flight Outfitters – The FLYING Branded Lift XL Pro Bag:  Best for professional pilots needing an upgraded bag
2. Aviation Books: Best for aviation and history enthusiasts
3. Ray-Ban Classic Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses: Best for any pilot who flies regularly 
4. Garmin D2 Air-GPS Smartwatch for Aviators: Best for pilots needing a smart watch upgrade 
5. Classic Airplane Instrument Coasters Set: Best for any aviation enthusiast 
6. Vintage Airplane Library Bookend Set: Best for avgeeks who love to read
7. Airplane Paper Weight: Best for the business professional aviation enthusiast 
8. U.S. Navy Issue Military Bomber Jacket: Best for aviation enthusiasts with a sense of style 
9. Private Pilot Training Kit: Best for student pilots 
10. Airplane Bottle Opener: Best for that special traveler

10 Gift Ideas for Aviation Enthusiasts

Finding a gift for an aviation enthusiast may seem like a daunting task, but there are so many options for all types of aviation lovers. Whether your loved one is a professional pilot, just getting started in the aviation industry, or just a lover of all things aviation, here are some gifts to consider getting for the next special occasion.

Flight Outfitters – The FLYING Branded Lift XL Pro Bag

This flight bag is a perfect gift for the professional pilot in your life. The bag is perfect for the pilot looking for an understated all-black approach to an aviation bag. Multiple lined compartments with zippered closures create a secure flight bag designed to fit all essentials. 

Best For: Professional pilots needing an upgraded bag

What We Love: This flight bag is equipped with many zippered pockets including a large lined compartment big enough for headsets and other pilot essentials.

Aviation Books

Pilots and enthusiasts love to learn more about aviation. A perfect gift for an aviation lover is an informative book. In addition to the 10 best aviation books, a perfect coffee-table book for aviation enthusiasts is “Flight: The Complete History of Aviation.” This book highlights everything from the first Wright Brothers’ flight to Concorde. This will be a conversation starter in your loved one’s home. 

Best For: Aviation and history enthusiasts

What We Love: Visual guide with incredible photography accompanied by detailed historic aviation events. 

Ray-Ban Classic Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses

Being a pilot means flying just a little closer to the sun. To make sure your pilot is protected, a gift of sunglasses may be perfect. The pilot in your life may love a classic pair of aviation sunglasses by Ray-Ban. Available in many sizes, shapes, and colors, Ray-Ban aviators can be customized to suit your aviation enthusiast. For the pilot in your life who wears prescription lenses, see our top picks for best prescription aviator sunglasses.

Best For: Any pilot who flies regularly  

What We Love: Long list of sizes, shapes, and colors. The durable metal frame that protects against drops. Unisex designs.

Garmin D2 Air-GPS Smartwatch for Aviators

Keeping track of time and creating a hands-free smart tool is essential for pilots. So one of the best gifts for pilots is an aviator smartwatch. The Garmin D2 Air has preflight, in-flight, and post-flight features that have pilots in mind. The option for a silicone or leather band ensures it can fit any pilot’s style. 

Best For: Pilots needing a smart watch upgrade  

What We Love: Ability to plane, track, and recap flights easily. Sleek design with band options. 

Classic Airplane Instrument Coasters Set

This six-piece coaster set is bound to be a topic of conversation at any gathering your aviation enthusiast has. Featuring the traditional “six pack” instrument cluster of an airspeed indicator, heading indicator, altimeter, vertical speed indicator, turn coordinator, and attitude indicator, these coasters are functional and cool.  

Best For: Any aviation enthusiast

What We Love: Traditional six-pack pilot instruments. Footed to prevent marks on table tops.

Vintage Airplane Library Bookend Set 

Aircraft bookends may be the best gift for an aviation enthusiast who also has their nose in a book. These vintage aircraft bookends are both functional and give an aviation aesthetic to any home library. Pair with a couple of aviation books to make the perfect gift basket for any avgeek. 

Best For: Avgeek who reads

What We Love: Its biplane look with a wood finish. It’s perfect for your office or library to hold up your favorite books.

Airplane Paperweight 

Not all aviation enthusiasts are pilots, some are business leaders. To keep a little aviation aesthetic in their office, a great gift for an aviation enthusiast is an airplane paperweight. Whether the paperweight is your loved one’s favorite airframe or just a trinket to remind them of their passions an airplane paperweight can be a great stocking stuffer. 

Best For: Business centric aviation enthusiasts  

What We Love: This airplane is a replica of the famous fighters of World War II. Other similar paperweights can be chosen in the gift receiver’s favorite airframe.

U.S. Navy Issue Military Bomber Jacket 

Every pilot and aviation enthusiast needs a stylish pilot bomber jacket to look cool on and off the tarmac. This U.S. Navy bomber is perfect for any aviation lover who is into all things military. Made from high grade leather, Turkish lamb wool, and goatskin, this is a high quality option. Flight jackets are a right of passage in aviation, learn more about their origin here. 

Best For: Aviation enthusiasts with a sense of style

What We Love: The Navy pattern gives an authentic look and feel to the bomber jacket. Plenty of pockets with zippers. 

Price: $250 at Sporty’s

ASA Private Pilot Kit

Some aviation enthusiasts grow up to be pilots and they all have to start somewhere. Pilot training comes with plenty of studying and a ton of determination. For the student pilot in your life or the pilot in your life getting back into the cockpit, a pilot training kit is a perfect gift. 

Best For: Student pilots

What We Love: All materials are included such as books, plotter, pilot log, and DVD prepware. You also get 10 hours of ground school video to prepare students for FAA exams.  

Price: $249.95 at Sporty’s

Airplane Bottle Opener 

One of the best gifts to give an aviation enthusiast comes with functionality in and out of the cockpit. For the airplane and travel lover in your life, consider gifting a beautiful airplane bottle opener. 

Best For: For that special traveler 

What We Love: This airplane bottle opener comes in an appealing gift box, ready to be gifted.

Tips When Shopping for an Aviation Enthusiast

There are a few things to consider when choosing a gift for an aviation enthusiast. 

Are They a Pilot?

Being a pilot may require some more specific types of Cangifts like flight bags and aviator watches, but don’t count out aviation-lover gifts like mugs and flight instrument coasters. Pilots will be the first to say they love all things aviation!

Do They Love to Travel?

If your loved one is an aviation enthusiast and also loves to travel, the perfect gifts for them may include luggage tags and the perfect carry-on suitcase. 

Can They Use This Gift At Work?

Pilots especially love practical gifts they can use on the job. If the gift receiver isn’t a pilot, consider practical everyday gifts they can use like a personalized mug, an embroidered jacket, or aviator sunglasses. 

What Climate do They Live in?

Colder climate aviation enthusiasts may need a warm weather flight jacket while those who live in warmer climates may want an extra pair of sunglasses. Understanding the person you are shopping for and where they live may affect what you give them. 

Are They a Student?

Student pilots may be one of the easiest to buy for since they still need most things. Consider buying them the new version of the FAR/AIM, a nice flight bag, or a kneeboard to make keeping in-flight notes or organizing charts a bit easier. 

Give the Gift of Flight

Buying gifts for anyone can be tough, aviation enthusiasts are no different. Whether they are a pilot, student, or full of wanderlust, this list can help you decide on the perfect gift for your loved one. To stay up to date on all things aviation subscribe to the FLYING newsletter and our print magazine.

FAQ

The post What To Buy an Aviation Enthusiast appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

For a great holiday gift that will ensure your loved one who flies will not have to ask ATC to “say again,” the Bose A20 active noise reduction headset could be the most important box they unwrap from under the tree this holiday season. After the initial elation of being given such a well-engineered headset–backed by more than 30 years of legendary Bose research and development–imagine their face when they open a second box to unveil a pair of Bose Frames, the super cool Bluetooth sunglasses with exclusive Open Ear Audio technology that will let them discreetly listen to music or take phone calls without having anything inside or over their ears.

Right now, Bose is offering a smoking hot deal with any Bose A20 or ProFlight Series 2 Aviation Headset purchase by throwing in a free set of Bose Frames (Alto or Rondo models) – an up to $199.95 value. Plus, Bose is offering 10 percent off each additional A20 or ProFlight Series 2 headset purchased. A20 and ProFlight Series 2 headset orders received between November 22 and January 9 are eligible to receive a free set of Bose Alto or Rondo Frames. For additional information and promotion rules, please visit Bose.com/aviation.

The Bose A20 has been a leader in the headset market for many years, due to the long list of desirable features that make it a popular choice of pilots who want to limit external cabin and engine noise to better understand ATC and radio traffic. The A20 headset gives pilots 30 percent greater noise reduction and 30 percent less “clamping force” than conventional aviation headsets, while a weight of just 12 ounces and soft ear cushions provide ultimate comfort. Add technology such as Bluetooth connectivity, 45 hours of battery life from just two AA batteries, auxiliary audio input with intercom/AUX priority switching for dedicated GPS and traffic warning systems, and flexible power circuitry with auto-on that switches to and from battery power and aircraft power, and you can see why this headset will be welcomed as 2020′s top holiday gift for any pilot.

The Bose Frames sunglasses are equally engineered to deliver the renowned Bose sound quality while looking good doing it. The Alto design has a classic angular shape–one of the most iconic sunglass silhouettes–while the Rondo design offers a distinct rounded shape first popularized by artists and musicians who need to just look great in their shades.

With a patented acoustic chamber that delivers sound without penetrating the ear and premium lenses in various popular shades and styles, Bose Alto and Rondo Frames weigh in at a comfortable 45 grams and have a Bluetooth range of 30 feet. After a fast charging time of just up to two hours, they will stream music or make phone calls for up to 3.5 hours. The Bose Connect app gives you easy access to personalize your Bose Frames settings to unlock new product features such as “Press & Turn gesture control” to change the volume of your phone while it stays in your pocket or bag.

To learn more and shop visit: Bose.com/aviation

The post Gift the Bose A20 Headset and Receive Free Bose Frames Bluetooth Sunglasses appeared first on FLYING Magazine.

Montague says its new M-E1 performance e-bike is so revolutionary that every GA pilot will want to pack one in the baggage compartment of their airplane. According to a Montague press release, “the patent-pending frame design makes folding and transporting the bike quick and effortless. The weight of the bike is supported by the double-leg kickstand during folding, so riders don’t need to lift or support the bike in any way. Once folded, the bike can be rolled for transport by holding the handlebar and simply tilting the bike onto the wheels. The fold-and-roll design makes the M-E1 the most portable e-bike on the market, and for even more compact storage, the handlebars fold with an additional quick release, creating a 38” x 38″ x 13″ package.”

The M-E1 comes equipped with a Shimano STEPS E6100 mid-drive motor, the newest premium e-bike propulsion system. The powerful 250W motor ensures riders can tackle trails and hills with ease—or make it into town from the airport. A 36V/418Wh lithium battery pack provides up to 80 kilometers of pedal assist on a single charge. “The system is paired with a Shimano Deore drivetrain and an SR Suntour NEX suspension fork for a smooth ride over the rough or non-existent roads around remote airstrips. The custom drawn aluminum frame features an integrated rear rack to provide secure cargo capacity.” The Montague M-E1 retails for $3,599. We reviewed a previous model in a gift guide for Flying several years ago.

The post Montague Launches Foldable, Full-size, Step-through E-Bike appeared first on FLYING Magazine.