The Pre-Flight Briefing - Pilot Shop Blog

Your official source for all things aviation. Get expert pilot tips, in-depth gear reviews, training guides, and stories from our community. Read the briefing today!
Landing on the Edge: The 8 Most Dangerous Airports in the World

Landing on the Edge: The 8 Most Dangerous Airports in the World

Some airports are famous for their breathtaking views, but others are famous for making your heart race—before you even touch down.

These airports challenge even the most experienced pilots, thanks to their short runways, rough weather, or crazy locations.

Get ready, because we’re about to explore eight of the world’s most dangerous airports to land at.

4 min read
Training
7 Best Airline Pilot Luggage Options For Durability And Style

7 Best Airline Pilot Luggage Options For Durability And Style

When you think about airline pilots, you probably picture crisp uniforms, calm confidence, and their ever-present luggage rolling behind them.

But have you ever wondered what makes pilot luggage so special?

Let’s get into what pilot bags are designed for and why their features might work perfectly for you, too!

5 min read
Flight Bags
What To Look For In A Flight Suit: A Pilot’s Guide

What To Look For In A Flight Suit: A Pilot’s Guide

Having the right gear is as important as knowing how to fly the airplane. A flight suit is an important piece of equipment that keeps you comfortable, and prepared for anything.

We'll explore what makes flight suits so special, where and how they’re used, and what to consider when picking one out for yourself.

4 min read
Military
15 Practical and Remarkable Gifts That Every Pilot Needs

15 Practical and Remarkable Gifts That Every Pilot Needs

Finding the perfect gift for a pilot takes some thought, but it’s worth it. Your friend might be starting flight school, or maybe a family member has been flying for years. You could even be shopping for yourself! A thoughtful gift that celebrates a love for aviation is always a win. Let’s dive into some ideas to make any pilot’s day unforgettable.
9 min read
Product Information
Flight-Proven: The Best Pilot Watches Tested by Aviators

Flight-Proven: The Best Pilot Watches Tested by Aviators

Looking for a watch that’s both stylish and useful for flying? Pilot watches do more than tell time—they’re tools. From budget-friendly picks to premium options, let’s explore what makes these watches a must-have for aviators!
4 min read
Product Information
The Best Flight Bags And What To Pack Inside

The Best Flight Bags And What To Pack Inside

Flying is exciting, but being prepared makes all the difference. A pilot’s flight bag is like their toolbox, packed with everything they need to have a successful trip.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into a pilot’s bag or how to pick the best one, let’s explore it in a simple and fun way.

5 min read
Flight Bags
Aviation Handheld Radios: Which Are The Best?

Aviation Handheld Radios: Which Are The Best?

If you’re a new pilot, a hobbyist, or just someone who loves listening to air traffic, having the right handheld radio can make all the difference.

Portable aviation radios help you stay connected, navigate better, and even improve safety in the skies.

But how do you choose the right one? Let’s get into it!

2 min read
Radios
Guide to the Best Aviation-Themed Christmas Ornaments 2025

Guide to the Best Aviation-Themed Christmas Ornaments 2025

Welcome to PilotMall.com's 2024 Guide to the Best Aviation-Themed Christmas Ornaments! In this video, we'll take you on a flight path to find the perfect ornaments for any pilot, flight attendant, or aviation enthusiast on your holiday shopping list.
1 min read
Product Information
Passive Headset Comparison - Best Comfort and Value

Passive Headset Comparison: Best Comfort and Value

Choosing the right aviation headset is key for comfort, clarity, and reliability—while staying within budget. Passive headsets offer an affordable, dependable solution for clear communication.

Here's what to consider when selecting yours.

5 min read
Headsets
Cessna 172 vs 182: Performance, Cost & Features Compared

Cessna 172 vs 182: Performance, Cost & Features Compared

Can you tell the difference between the Cessna 172 and the 182? It’s okay if you can’t.

At first glance, they look pretty similar. Both are reliable, single-engine airplanes with fixed tricycle landing gear. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find they each offer something unique.

5 min read
Aircraft
Pneumatic De-Ice Boots (Key Features and Benefits)

Pneumatic De-Ice Boots (Key Features and Benefits)

When you hear "De-Icing Boot," you might picture something for your feet, but in aviation, it's referring to an anti-icing system.

In this guide we’ll cover how they work, why they’re useful, and how to maintain them so they keep doing their job. Let’s dive in!

4 min read
Aircraft
TKS Ice Protection Systems (What Are They & How They Work)

TKS Ice Protection Systems (What Are They & How They Work)

De-icing boot's are great, but only work after ice has already formed. TKS systems use a fluid-based method to prevent ice from sticking to surfaces like the wings, tail, and even the windshield.

Read on to learn more about this amazing system and get your aircraft ready for winter.

5 min read
Aircraft
How VOR Works: VHF Omnidirectional Range

How VOR Works: VHF Omnidirectional Range

Part of every student pilots training includes learning about navigation systems. One of those systems is a VOR. But what is it? Let's learn more about VORs and why it's important for pilots to understand how they operate.
8 min read
IFR
Adverse Yaw: Impact on Aircraft Performance and Control

Adverse Yaw: Impact on Aircraft Performance and Control

If you've never heard of adverse yaw, it can catch you off guard during a turn when the plane’s nose pulls in the opposite direction, making the aircraft feel like it’s fighting against you.

It's alarming at first. But no sweat, we've got your covered. In this article, we’ll break down exactly how adverse yaw works and how it affects your ability to control your aircraft.

Let's get started!

6 min read
Student Pilot
How Jet Engines Work: A Comprehensive Guide - PilotMall.com

How Jet Engines Work: A Comprehensive Guide

If you've ever wondered how does a jet engine work, in this article, you’ll learn about the workings of jet engines, explore how they have evolved, and take a look at the different types powering planes today.

Lets get started!

6 min read
Aircraft
How To Fill Out A Pilot Logbook (Tips & Best Practices)

How To Fill Out A Pilot Logbook (Tips & Best Practices)

Logging each flight correctly and consistently makes the difference between a polished, professional record and a cluttered mess that can raise eyebrows when you're aiming for the next step in your aviation journey.

Let’s dive into some practical tips for keeping your logbook pristine and organized.

5 min read
Student Pilot