Unboxing New Aviation Gear for March 2025

Best new: Flight bag

The Flight Outfitters Flight Deck Pro is the ultimate new flight bag for professional pilots. It features 30 pockets and several quick-access compartments for optimum organization of flight-critical and personal items. The dual main compartment has a flexible center divider to accommodate every aviator’s needs. The flight bag measures 21 inches by 5.5 inches by 15 inches and fits under most airline seats, in the overhead bins, and in the cockpit, making it easily accessible midflight. Its sleek, comfortable, and functional design is sure to meet high airline standards.

Price: $129.95, plus $8 for up to 11 characters of embroidery

Best new: Cooler

For pilots planning to attend EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in the summer, the portable and lightweight RTIC 22 QT Ultra-Light Wheeled Cooler is ideal for keeping food and beverages cold during long event days. This cooler can hold up to 28 cans, retains cold temperatures for up to four days, and features a durable design, all-terrain wheels, and a rugged retractable handle. Its compact design allows it to fit in the cargo compartments of most general aviation aircraft. Event participants should be aware of the list of prohibited items for the main event grounds in Wisconsin, as there are restrictions on cooler sizes outside the camping areas.

Price: $169

Best new: Aircraft accessory

Another item to include in the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh packing list is the Flight Gear Chockmate Tie-Down Kit. Whether parking on pavement or grass, this kit offers a quick and dependable solution to secure an aircraft. It includes three anchor chocks, 12 heavy-duty nails, three 12-foot-long orange reflective ropes, a dual-purpose hammer, and a durable canvas tool bag. The anchor brackets even double as chocks for those quick pit stops on the way to and from the event.

Price: $99.95

Best new: Technology

This month, Apple introduced the new, faster, and more powerful iPad Air, featuring the M3 chip. This advanced tablet can elevate any electronic flight bag (EFB) or enhance the flight simulator experience. In addition to its improved speed, the new iPad Air comes with the latest Magic Keyboard, iPadOS 18, support for Apple Intelligence, advanced cameras, fast wireless 5G connectivity, and compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C).

Price: 11-inch model starting at $599; 13-inch model starting at $799

Best new: Watch

A watch is an essential tool that pilots must carry to tell and track time. The AVI-8 Hawker Harrier Matador Chronograph is an iconic watch commemorating the legendary Harrier jump jet. It combines strength and sophistication for today's aviators, equipped with a precise Japanese quartz movement and a genuine leather strap. The watch comes in several other styles and has a two-year warranty.

Price: $270

Best new: Flashlight

A flashlight is another essential piece of equipment pilots must carry to accomplish all required tasks. The Coast XT10R USB-C Rechargeable Penlight is a compact yet practical flashlight with three modes: medium, high, and low. It is rechargeable and works with the included Zithion-X rechargeable battery or any AAA alkaline battery. The flashlight is constructed from stainless steel, featuring a two-way pocket clip and a sturdy rubber bite cap. It is also water- and dust-resistant and backed by the Coast’s lifetime warranty.

Price: $34.99

Best new: Pilot apparel

The Flight Outfitters Airfoil Vest is lightweight and versatile, ideal for aviators who prioritize comfortable and functional apparel. This vest is a practical mid-layer clothing item based on the pilot-tested and widely popular Airfoil Jacket ($119.95). It is unisex and comes in sizes small to XXL.

Price: $99.95, plus $8 for up to 11 characters of embroidery

Best new: Sim gear

With FlightSimWeekend, the world's largest flight simulation event, set for March 20-22, many exciting gear release announcements are on the horizon. In the meantime, let’s highlight the Turtle Beach Stealth 500 Headset in the Arctic Camo design, which debuted earlier this month. This equipment is perfect for gamers seeking a reliable and comfortable headset option without overspending. It now features a striking new camouflage design.

Price: $79.99

Best new: Aviation resource

The Airman Certification Standards (ACS) by Sporty’s Pilot Shop for private pilots, instrument ratings, and commercial pilots are now offered in spiral-bound books. With a lay-flat design, these guides are ideal for reviewing aeronautical knowledge, proficiency essentials, and risk management skills. These resources are excellent for students, instructors, and evaluators preparing for FAA knowledge exams and check rides.

Price: $9.95

Aviators buy new gear to replace old items, discover new interests, or upgrade for better performance. Avoid long store lines and add one of these new aviation gadgets to your online cart today.