Sporty’s launches virtual airshow experience

While EAA AirVenture Oshkosh has been cancelled due to the pandemic, the aviation celebration has found a new home — online.

Sporty’s has kicked off its first ever virtual airshow, a five-week-long series of events and experiences that will be hosted on Sportys.com and various social media platforms.

In addition to new product introductions and show specials, Sporty’s will also offer weekly webinars, livestream events, contests, and flying videos. The goal is to keep pilots connected and excited about aviation, no matter what their flying plans are this summer, according to company officials.

“AirVenture is our favorite week of the year, where we get to meet thousands of customers, show off the latest products, and see amazing airplanes in action,” said Sporty’s President Michael Wolf. “But while we can’t be together in Wisconsin, we hope we can help recreate some of the Oshkosh atmosphere online.”

Webinar topics include what’s new in aviation headsets, practical tips for flying with an iPad, how to use flight simulators to stay current, proficiency strategies from Sporty’s team of flight instructors, and an interactive IFR quiz hour.

Sporty’s will also host webinars from other companies, including ForeFlight and Redbird.

Limited time Virtual Airshow specials will be available on a variety of products, from training courses and headsets to flight bags and avionics.

Other events include a virtual exhibit hangar video series, with videos from major aviation brands, livestream sessions with Sporty’s product experts, and weekly contests.

There’s fun planned as well, including a livestream concert from Sporty’s video host and longtime musician Rob Reider and a virtual airshow routine from legendary performer Patty Wagstaff.

At the end of July, one Sporty’s Flight Crew member will be awarded a $2,500 flight training scholarship.

Sporty’s is also encouraging pilots to give back during this challenging airshow season, with The Sporty’s Foundation Matching Gift Initiative. For every dollar Sporty’s customers donate to EAA this July — up to $25,000 — the foundation will match it. There is no overhead, so 100% of donations will go to the area of greatest need at EAA, according to Sporty’s officials. Donations of any amount are accepted, and Sporty’s is asking pilots to consider an amount equal to their expected ticket fee for AirVenture 2020.

“Sporty’s and EAA have been partners for decades, with a relentless focus on growing participation in aviation,” said Wolf. “The important work of inspiring the next generation of pilots does not stop because AirVenture is on hold for a year, and hopefully this gift will help that work continue.”

Sporty’s 2020 Virtual Airshow runs from June 29 to Aug. 2, 2020. For a complete schedule of events, go to Sportys.com/Airshow.