The following article is not intended to be a ranking, but is only to serve as a list of possible options. These products were selected by our team, but FLYING or its affiliates may receive compensation if you purchase a product through one of these links.
The best gifts for the pilot in your life depends a lot on who they are and, more importantly, what they need. If you’re looking for the best gifts for pilots under $100, you’re in the right place. Whether they are a pilot or just an avgeek, there are many options to choose from, such as personalized keepsakes and functional flight bags. Below are some options to consider the next time you are searching for the perfect gift for the pilot in your life.
Quicklook: Best Gifts for Pilots under $100
- Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag: Best for pilots in need of a compact flight bag.
- Sporty’s Electronic E6B Flight Computer: Best for the new or aspiring pilot going digital.
- MA-1 Flight Jacket: Best for the pilot searching for a historically minded flight jacket.
- Airplane Instrument Coasters: Best for aircraft enthusiasts looking to decorate up their space.
- Book of Airshows: Best for pilots who enjoy the history of aviation’s biggest events.
- Pilot Cufflinks: Best for the professional pilot or airplane-loving executive.
6 Awesome Gifts for Pilots
Finding gifts for pilots and aircraft enthusiasts can be a daunting task. Whether opting for a gift on the basis of style or functionality, there are many options to consider when purchasing a gift for a pilot, even if you are trying to keep to a budget. Here are our 6 recommendations for aviation inspired gifts.
FLYING Flight Outfitters Lift Flight Bag
Best For: Pilots in need of a compact flight bag.
This FLYING branded Flight Outfitters flight bag is a perfect gift for the pilot in need of a compact new bag. Equipped with tons of features like water bottle/back-up radio pocket, fuel tester pocket, two external chart pockets, this bag ensures you have plenty of room. Flight Outfitters offer several styles to fit the needs of any pilot.
What We Love: Fleece-lined headset pocket and adjustable shoulder straps.
Pricing: $99.95
Sporty’s Electronic E6B Flight Computer
Best For: The new or aspiring pilot looking to go digital.
The E6B flight computer is a great tool to have in your flight bag for daily use or for backup. Perfect for a first solo gift, for a current student pilot learning to fly, or someone looking to upgrade to digital. It includes a quick reference guide for quick learning.
What We Love: Back-lit computer screen for night flying.
Pricing: $79.95
MA-1 Flight Jacket
Best For: Pilots looking for a historicalky minded flight jacket.
This flight jacket is manufactured to strict United States Air Force standards, and is sure to keep your favorite pilot warm in the winter. In the summertime, the MA-1 can be worn open to ensure not to overheat on the ground.
What We Love: Comes in a variety of colors and sizes.
Pricing: Starts at $59.95
Airplane Instrument Coasters
Best For: Pilots looking to spice up their space.
These nickel engraved coasters are perfect for all aviation lovers. Made to resemble aircraft instruments, these coasters are sure to be a topic of conversation at your next hangar-flying session. Makes a great stocking stuffer!
What We Love: The nickel finish ensures the coasters will never tarnish.
Pricing: $19.99
The Book of Airshows
Best For: Pilots who enjoy the history of aviation’s biggest events.
The coffee-table book, The Book of Airshows, by Phillip Handleman, is great for airplane and history lovers alike. The book takes the reader through the excitement of an airshow while comfortably seated at home. This book is a grand, full-color celebration of the great contemporary North American air shows.
What We Love: Visual guide with fantastic photography.
Pricing: $49.95
Aeronautical Cufflinks
Best For: The professional pilot or airplane-loving executive.
These handmade 24K gold airplane cufflinks are perfect for professional pilots and executives alike looking to add a little extra something to their professional attire. The handmade cufflinks can come in white or yellow gold.
What We Love: The handmade cufflinks come packaged in a gift ready box.
Pricing: $59.99
Bonus – A FLYING Magazine Subscription
If you’re passionate about aviation, then FLYING Magazine is the perfect subscription for you. With in-depth features and profiles of all things aviation, FLYING has been the premier magazine for almost 100 years. Packed with stunning photography and fascinating stories, this is a must-read for anyone interested in aviation.
The ultimate gift is to give the gift of FLYING Magazine. Using the highest quality paper and photography, the longest-running aviation magazine is sure to delight the pilot or the aviation curious by displaying it proudly on their coffee table.
What We Love: FLYING Magazine is packed with evergreen content, and it has stood the test of time since 1927.
Pricing: $40 for 1 Year
Selecting The Perfect Gifts for Aviation Lovers
Finding a gift for a pilot can seem difficult, but knowing their style, what they need, and that they enjoy is the perfect place to start when looking for their next special gifts.
FAQ
What is an avgeek?
An avgeek is someone who is very passionate about aviation. Whether they are a pilot, air traffic controller, or just into airplanes, avgeeks love to learn about all things aviation.
What Should I Buy Before Starting Flight School?
Many things are required to be successful in flight school. Some essential items include; an E6B, a plotter, an aviation headset, and the most up to date VFR sectionals/charts (paper or electronic) and the FAR/AIM.
What Do All Pilots Need?
All pilots are required to have a pilot certificate and an up to date medical certificate to fly. But to be successful in the cockpit, a reliable headset, a kneeboard with pen and paper, and good decision making skills are needed—to start. Training and practice will take you the rest of the way.
