Most Popular Aviation Items of January 2025

If you’re still waiting for warmer weather to fly, browse the 15 items that FLYING readers scooped up in January 2025.

Reason to choose: Superior noise reduction and comfort

Enjoy quiet and comfortable flights with the new Lightspeed Zulu 3 ANR Headset. Its active noise reduction (ANR) features reduce a broad range of low frequency noise, while magnesium ear cups block out high-frequency clutter.

Lightweight and designed for longevity, it has patented technology to automatically lower the volume of other devices when radio or intercom transmissions come in. You can record incoming and outgoing communication with its free FlightLink app for Apple iPads and iPhones.

Price: $899

Reason to choose: Great for advanced flight sim users

This gaming monitor from Samsung is a top-tier choice for advanced users seeking to elevate their flight simulation experience. The 49-inch Dual QHD screen offers an ultrawide display that mimics the sensation of a cockpit, further enhanced by the 1800R curvature that wraps around the user’s field of vision.

The integration of AMD FreeSync Premium Pro ensures synchronized frame rates, and the swift 240 Hz refresh rate delivers fluid, stutter-free graphics vital for fast-paced aerial maneuvers. With an extraordinary 0.03 ms response time, users experience hyper-fast responsiveness, reducing motion blur during flight sequences.

Price: $1,099.99

Reason to choose: Durable and affordable

The David Clark H10-13.4 is a seemingly indestructible workhorse headset. That definitely makes it an excellent choice for new pilots who want to start out with something they can continue using for years.

It offers good passive noise reduction and clear audio quality. Known for its durability, this headset comes with a five-year warranty and can withstand the demands of flight training and beyond.

Price: $389.99

Reason to choose: Affordable and beginner-friendly

The DJI Mini 4K is a lightweight powerhouse under 249 grams, perfect for fitting in the last bit of space in your carry-on. It captures cinematic-quality 4K footage with a three-axis gimbal for stunning stability.

With a 10km HD video range, Level 5 wind resistance, and extended battery options (up to 93 minutes), it’s built for adventure. On the safety side, the drone has GPS Return to Home, and beginner-friendly features ensure safe and easy operation, making it perfect for both novices and seasoned travelers who aren’t looking to break the bank.

Price: $378.99

Reason to choose: Super comfortable from an established leading brand

Priced at just under $1,000, this headset from David Clark combines good active noise reduction and comfort with superior durability.

Our reviewers have raved that the DC One-X is the most comfortable headset they’ve ever worn, even during multihour flights. Offering Bluetooth connectivity, superior comfort, excellent noise reduction, and reliable customer service, the One-X is a fantastic headset.

Price: $995

Reason to choose: Great for video and still photography

The Flip is one of DJI’s newest drones and is designed with vloggers in mind. It’s highly portable and features a 48MP camera with a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor capable of capturing high-resolution photos and recording 4K HDR video at 60 frames per second.

The Flip comes with a ton of intelligent flight modes and can fly for up to 31 minutes on a single charge. If you want a drone that can go anywhere you do and help you capture and share your adventures with the world, this one is a must for our list and your aerial photography needs.

Price: $439

Reason to choose: Low cost, modest performance

Based on conventional steel band and plastic ear-cup designs, the offshore-produced G2 does everything a much more expensive ANR headset does for a lot less.

At 23 ounces, it’s a little heavier than competing models. The ANR is surprisingly good. If you’re looking for a bargain headset, this is a good option.

Price: $333

Reason to choose: Great adjustability, compatibility with accessories

If you’re searching for a high-quality, immersive flight simulation seat that offers a realistic and comfortable experience for both casual and serious sim enthusiasts, this is our best bet.

Officially licensed by Boeing, it offers sturdy construction, adjustability, and compatibility with a wide range of peripherals. It might be pricier than similar seats, but its ergonomic design makes it all worthwhile.

Price: $626.29

Reason to choose: Plenty of power, clear audio, weatherproof

Every pilot needs a reliable avionic radio. If it’s time to retire yours or upgrade, FLYING readers love this Icom VHF Airband Transceiver.

This next-generation air band is a powerful handheld with 6 watts of power and an impressive waterproof rating. It features built-in GPS and Bluetooth, with an easy-to-use interface and large LCD display. Users praise its clear audio and easy recharge cradle. 

Price: $548.82

Reason to choose: Extended flight time, affordable price

While the DJI Mini 3 isn’t the newest drone in the company’s Mini series, it’s one of the best drones you can buy for under $500. The drone features a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor and a 12MP camera and can capture 4K HDR videos.

The Mini 3 has a 38-minute flight time, but there is an extended battery that can increase that to 51 minutes. It even has an innovative gimbal design so that the camera can shoot vertically, making it ideal for social media posts. It’s portable and perfect for pilots of all skill levels.

Price: $549

Reason to choose: Powerful tool in a small size

This has long been the go-to tablet for pilots who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance. With the latest iteration, featuring the powerful A17 Pro chip, Apple has further solidified its position in the small tablet market.

The tablet retains its familiar design—an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display tucked into a sleek, aluminum chassis. It’s compact enough to slip into a flight bag or even a large pocket. 

Price: $649

Reason to choose: Ideal for advanced flight sim users

Users can effortlessly dive into full immersion with the Meta Quest 3, bringing their flight simulator experience to life with stunning clarity. The brilliant 4K resolution, coupled with rich spatial audio, creates an environment where users feel as though they’re truly soaring through the virtual skies.

Adding to the immersive appeal, the innovative Infinite Display technology on this device offers the widest field of view available in any Quest headset, ensuring users won’t miss a single detail of the action unfolding around them.

Price: $499.99

Reason to choose: Low cost, but impressive performance

The Hero12 offers impressive video quality, particularly in low-light conditions. A new sensor and processing engine allow for more detail and dynamic range, resulting in stunning footage.

This model includes GoPro’s intuitive interface that makes its cameras quite user friendly. The touchscreen is responsive, and navigating the menus is straightforward.

Price: $299

Reason to choose: Sharp display, strong signal

The FTA-850L is aimed at pilots who want a reliable and versatile communication tool. It offers a color display, Bluetooth connectivity, and integrated navigation features, making it a compelling option for both seasoned aviators and student pilots.

The 6 watt output power delivers a strong signal, even in challenging environments. The built-in noise limiter helps to reduce background noise, improving clarity.

Price: $495

Reason to choose: Compatibility and realism

This flight sim yoke is officially licensed by both Boeing and Xbox, designed to work seamlessly with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

It’s aimed at serious sim enthusiasts and offers a premium build quality and a host of features that justify its higher price point. It’s built with a pendular suspension mechanism that mimics the feedback and resistance found in actual cockpits, providing realistic input and reaction.

Price: $399.99

If you still haven’t found the faves you wanted, you can find a wide selection of pilot gear, gadgets, electronics, and apparel by visiting Sporty’s Pilot Shop, Flight Outfitters, or MyGoFlight.com. And there’s always a wide selection at Amazon’s gift store.