Gift buying for the aviator in your life has never been easier. Almost every item in this guide can be purchased from a number of different retailers over the Internet or through your local pilot shop.
While low prices are an important consideration, we’ve discovered that finding the right online pilot shop can be about as critical as finding the right mechanic for your airplane.
You may be surprised to learn that many online pilot shops--like the shops near your airport—-are extensions of another aviation business such as an FBO or flight school.
Like any online transaction, study the store before you buy. Make sure the online retailer has a clearly-stated privacy policy which says they will not sell your personal information.
Make sure your online pilot shop has a clearly-stated return policy, as well as a telephone number posted on their site so you can call and talk to someone if you have questions or problems after you purchase.
When buying aviation gifts, keep in mind that pilot preferences differ widely, and that many tools used in flying are mandated by the FAA based on the ratings the pilot holds, the type of flight and the type of airplane.
Your local pilot shop usually will be able to help you figure out how to differentiate between a truly useful piece of equipment and a piece of trendy junk, so don’t be shy about explaining what you want or asking lots of questions.
Visit our giftguide online at aviatorsguide/giftguide/. Also, here are some quality online pilot shops that have excellent reputations and treat pilots well.
PilotMart, Greenville, PA, 800.586.5529, or pilotmart.net;
Gulf Coast Avionics, Lakeland, FL, 800.474.9714, or gulfcoastavionics.com;
PilotMall.com, Newburgh, NY, 800.249.5730, or pilotmall.com;
AvShop, Warsaw, IN, 866.9.AvShop, or avshop.com;
Pilot Shop of Baldwin, 800.729.7503, or pilotshopusa.com
JoePilot, Lititz, PA, 800.247.82943, or joepilot.com
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