Best 2024 Father’s Day Gifts for Pilots and Aviation Enthusiasts

From an aviation enthusiast to a certified pilot, there is a unique gift to satisfy every interest. Have fun browsing our curated list, and remember, whatever you choose, it’s the thought that counts.

Whether your dad is a pilot or an aviation enthusiast, these gifts are sure to make his day special. Enjoy browsing our handpicked list to get your Father’s Day gift search started.

Best for: Aviation art fan

Vintage wooden propellers make fantastic decorative pieces for aviation enthusiasts. This 46-inch Personalized Vintage Propeller from Sporty’s Wright Bros. Collection is handcrafted of wood, replicating propellers from the early days of aviation. The center hub has chrome-plated tacks to simulate bolts and a keyhole mounted on the back for easy hanging. The custom design of up to 18 characters takes about two business days to complete.

Price: $39.99

Best for: Usefulness

A flashlight is an essential tool in any pilot’s flight bag and this Flight Gear Universal Aviator's Light offers a one-stop solution for the aviator in your life with its built-in, red-and-white lights. This light is so much more than just a headlamp for hands-free operations, as its durable clip also allows it to be placed almost anywhere in the flight deck. The light uses two AAA batteries (included) to provide up to 100 hours of use.

Price: $29.95

Best for: Uniqueness

This unique liquor decanter and matching glasses with an etched globe design are the perfect gift for a dad who enjoys to kick back and relax with his favorite beverage after a long day of work. These handcrafted products are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on any pilot or aviation enthusiast. The decanter holds 1,000 milliliters of liquor, while the glasses are perfect for up to a 10-ounce cocktail.

Price: Decanter ($120), Glasses ($29)

Best for: Airplane lovers

For the dad that doesn’t just love aircraft but wants to own a piece of one, this custom tail number replica is perfect for any aircraft owner or aviation enthusiast. This custom wall art looks great in any home, office, or hangar. Each sign is approximately 16-by-30 inches and made from metal. Due to its custom nature and high demand, allow up to five weeks for delivery.

Price: $229.95

Best for: Pilots in training

Pilots in training may feel overwhelmed with all the new information and tools thrown at them. Help out your student pilot dad by keeping him organized in the flight deck to reduce any stress. This Flight Outfitters Centerline Kneeboard has been test flown and proven to be one of the best and reliable on the market. The small kneeboard can accommodate all versions of the iPad Mini, while the large can accommodate iPad 5-9, iPad Air 1-4, and iPad Pro 9.7-11 inch.

Price: $69.95 (small) + $5 (large)

Best for: Online course for obtaining a private pilot license

There are numerous private pilot training ground school courses available on the market. However, Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course – Private Pilot Ground School has everything needed to prepare the prospective flyer in your life for his written test and help him earn his private pilot certificate. With online ground school, FAA test prep, and real-world training, this course is available in one easy-to-use package. 

If you want to take your gift to the next level, Sporty’s also offers its Deluxe Learn To Fly Course Kit ($499), which includes everything a student pilot could need, from video training to essential pilot supplies.

Price: $299

Best for: Personalized gifts

If your dad has all the pilot supplies, but needs a new place to store them, then this Flight Gear iPad 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. If you’re looking for something equally customizable, but with a little more storage space, the Flight Gear Tailwind Backpack ($99.95) is another great option for the pilot in your life. 

Price: $79.95 + $9.95 for custom embroidery

Best for: Book gift

Flight by R.G. Grant is a stunning visual celebration of aircraft from around the world, and the pioneers who made a dream become reality. It is a historical and visual exploration of awe-inspiring aviation over a period of 100 years, from the earliest airplane prototypes to supersonic jets. This all-encompassing read is sure to take your aviation-loving dad on a thrilling exploration of some of the greatest commercial and military aircraft ever made.

Price: $48.32

We hope you found something on our list to meet your dad’s unique tastes and interests. As we’ve pointed out, many of these gifts can be personalized to make them even more meaningful. With Father’s Day just around the corner, make sure you place your order now to ensure the gift arrives in time for the special day.

What do pilots need?

Pilots need many supplies to carry out their missions effectively, however, many of these are specific to their likes and needs, like a flight bag, flashlight, kneeboard, etc. Therefore, before you invest in a specific tool for the pilot in your life, check with them to ensure it will meet their unique needs.

What's in a pilot's bag?

Pilots carry many supplies in their flight bags, some of which include a headset, kneeboard, tablet, flight computer, flashlight, multitool, dipstick, hand-held radio, portable charger, logbook, etc.

Where can I buy gifts for pilots?

Aviation-focused stores, like Sporty’s, are a great place to buy gifts for pilots. Many of these gifts have been handpicked by pilots for pilots and the stores often offer curated gift guides to meet any budget and need.