Max power on the go
Smart Battery Pack Max lives up to its name
That’s OK if your aircraft has built-in USB power ports to accommodate the load. However, some classic models like Aeroncas, Piper Cubs, and Taylorcrafts don’t have electrical systems. Plus, many of us hop from airplane to airplane, which can present a problem if you’re trying to power up electronic flight bags, portable ADS-B receivers, and other flight deck accessories without knowing if that aircraft has working power ports. And don’t forget, some trainers need a special cigarette lighter receptacle adapter which might—or might not—be available in that aircraft.
Sporty’s massive Flight Gear Smart Battery Pack Max, at 27,600 mAh, may be the answer for shuttling electrons to these devices when you’re on the go, but it comes at a price. I’ve been using this monster for about a month. It’s a robust power source—if you can accommodate its size, weight, and form factor nestled in your flight bag or positioned in your airplane. The 6-by-2-inch vertical cube weighs in at 1.43 pounds, which is about half the weight of a 2026 FAR/AIM book, but equally as thick.“This is the most you can put into a battery before shippers and airlines start asking questions.”—Doug Ranly, Sporty’s Pilot Shop vice president
The Max can power a variety of electronics at a swift 140W maximum output via two USB-C in/out ports and one USB-A out port, with “intelligent power management” that automatically adjusts current for safety and efficiency. It can accommodate everything from 5V-3A to 28V-5A. A helpful LED digital display shows power levels, how long your devices have been charging, and the pack’s temperature. In practical use, the temperature monitor can double as an ambient temperature gauge—which may be helpful at airfields without weather reporting stations.
The dark gray aluminum casing is imprinted with a phonetic aviation alphabet on one side—an interesting, but quizzical addition. However, the small font in blue and black ink is hard to read. Instead, I’d prefer light gun signals, VFR altitudes with cloud clearances, or an IFR alternate “1-2-3 rule” reminder, but that’s just me. And next time, print it in white or yellow, please. The other side has a Fahrenheit-to-Celsius conversion chart, which is a nice touch, especially in the summer.
The Max can keep a laptop powered up for six hours, recharge a handful of camera batteries, plus your phone or iPad—all at the same time. I put it to the test not only in a Cessna 172 with my depleted iPhone and iPad, but also in the working media room during an NFL game, where it kept a MacBook Air and a rotation of six Nikon Z8 camera batteries alive for six hours I figured the latter trial could simulate a weekend of airplane camping with select gadgets. Sporty’s Pilot Shop literature points out that the Max battery can also reliably power a Starlink Aviation internet receiver. 
Price: Smart Battery Pack Max $99.95;
Smart Battery Pack $49.95
sportys.com
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