From the flight deck to the weekend getaway, the right gear is essential for any aviation enthusiast. To see what’s trending, we looked at the top-selling items purchased by FLYING magazine readers in July 2025.
Ray-Ban Aviator Classic
Ray-Ban Aviators have stood the test of time, and while there are many options (and an easy-to-customize sales page on their website) the classic style with extra-large lenses and reinforcement bar across the top still checks all the boxes.
Many lenses are available, and comparatively, these are still quite affordable.
Price: $191
BLUESTORM Stratus 35 Inflatable Life Jacket PFD for Adults
This US Coast Guard-approved life vest for adults provides automatic inflation for safety on the water. It also includes a manual ripcord. It is recommended for use on inland and coastal rivers and lakes for activities such as flying over water, casual fishing, boating, kayaking, and sailing. The manufacturer specifies that it is not for use with personal watercraft, water skiing, or towables.
Price: $139.99
David Clark DC ONE-X ENC Headset
Praised for its superior build quality, this headset features a magnesium alloy construction that is both durable and comfortable. A hinged design allows the earcups to press evenly against the head, maintaining a firm seal.
In a direct comparison, one pilot in a jet cockpit found its active noise reduction superior to the Bose A30, noting the DC ONE-X cuts noise precisely without adding audible “white noise.” It also boasts excellent battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, and strong passive noise reduction.
Price: $995
Holy Stone Mini Drone for Kids and Beginners
An ideal drone for kids and beginners, the HS210 is durable and easy to fly indoors. It comes with three batteries and a dual charger, allowing for continuous practice sessions.
Features include three speed settings, a headless mode, and a one-press stunt button for 3D flips. The built-in propeller guards stand up to bumps and crashes, making it a great, low-cost way to learn drone piloting before moving on to more advanced models.
Price: $32.99
STARDRONE S8 RC Flight Simulator Controller
The STARDRONE S8 RC Flight Simulator Controller is designed for users to practice FPV drone flying on a computer or smartphone without risking an actual drone. It features 8 channels, multiple switches, and two joysticks, with options for left or right-hand throttle. The controller connects via USB and works with Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS, though it is not supported on MacOS. It does not control a real drone and requires separate simulator software, which can be purchased for around $10-$20.
Price: $36.54
Potensic ATOM SE GPS Drone
The Potensic ATOM SE is a budget-friendly drone that packs a smart set of features, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced users.
Its lightweight and foldable design enhances portability. The 4K EIS camera captures good quality footage, and the 62-minute flight time (with two batteries) is impressive. The 4KM FPV transmission allows for a good range. Features like the brushless motor and auto-return add to its appeal.
Price: $269.99
Yaesu FTA550L Handheld VHF Transceiver
A solid backup radio, the Yaesu FTA550L is effective for pattern work and communicating with nearby towers. It includes NAV/VOR/ILS features and comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including a headset adapter, a 12V power cord, and a backup AA battery pack.
Users note its impressive speaker clarity, and it has become an ideal transceiver for sUAS remote pilots needing to maintain contact with ATC.
Price: $290.20
Alpine FlyFit – Earplugs for Pressure Relief
These reusable earplugs are designed to relieve air pressure and prevent ear pain while flying. One user who previously experienced excruciating pain and temporary hearing loss on flights reported that the Alpine FlyFit completely eliminated the pain.
They’re soft, comfortable, and more effective than single-use alternatives, making them a game-changer for travelers sensitive to pressure changes.
Price: $16.99
Standard Pilot Log
The Standard Pilot Log (ASA-SP-57) This versatile and easy-to-use logbook from Aviation Supplies & Academics (ASA) has been an industry staple for over 60 years. It complies with all FAA recordkeeping requirements and is flexible enough to suit the needs of any aviator, from students to ATPs. ASA is a trusted provider of aviation training materials, ensuring this logbook is a reliable choice for accurately documenting flight time.
Price: $13.12
‘Flight: The Complete History of Aviation’
This hardcover book by historian R.G. Grant charts the story of humankind’s conquest of the skies. It covers everything from the early pioneers to modern spaceflight, detailing record-breaking flights, aerial warfare, and advances in aircraft design. The book is loaded with full-color photographs, profiles of a huge range of aircraft, and gripping first-hand accounts of a century of aviation.
Price: $28.24
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