Gift Ideas for Aviation School Graduates and Beyond

Breathe easy. These ideas will have you acing the grad gift-giving game faster than you can say, “Pomp and circumstance.”

Many pilots travel frequently and spend a lot of time away from home, which makes it difficult for them to use many kinds of presents. Gifts that are small, wearable, easily transported, or able to remain in one location are ideal for any pilot. To find the perfect present for an aviator on your list, we have compiled a list of the best pilot gifts. These cool aviation gifts are perfect for not only aviation school graduates but also pilots, pilots in training, and aviation lovers in general.

1. AOPA’s Night and Day Socks: Okay, okay. We know what you are thinking. “Socks? Really?” But trust us. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill socks that your Mom made you buy every Father’s Day at the local mall. These socks are bound to make any pilot in your life smile. Each sock has a different design featuring daytime and nighttime flying. They will definitely be a conversation starter wherever they go.
2. A Handy Portable Charger: Pilots are the very definition of “on the go.” For anyone who is away from home for long periods of time, a high-quality portable charger makes sense. There are many varieties and options available, but TechRadar recommends this one.
3. A Personalized Pilot’s Log: For most pilots, their logbook is more than just a record of flight time. Beyond its use to meet regulatory commitments, a pilot’s logbook is a diary of flights and memories. It reflects a pilot’s achievements, adventures, and history. Why not make it extra special and add a touching sentiment (such as his or her graduation date) to the one you choose? There are numerous options to choose from, but going that extra mile with the personal touch will be forever appreciated.
4. AOPA's Speckled Tumbler: We all know that person who always has a cup of coffee or a bottle of water in hand. If you’re looking for a great gift that’s fun and practical, this speckled AOPA tumbler might just be the perfect thing!
5. Aviation-Themed Movies: Who doesn’t love a good airplane movie? And it’s a nice reprieve from all those training videos. We have many recommendations, but if we had to choose, here are a few of our favorites for your favorite graduate:
   • Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow: This little retro gem has it all—airplanes, robots, pilots, Shangri La, Jude Law, and Angelina Jolie. What’s not to like?
   • Planes: Root for Dusty and his team! This movie is for kids and the inner child in all of us. The DVD also comes with exciting bonus features not seen in theaters.
   • The Aviator: Follow the early years of aviator Howard Hughes.
   If that’s not enough, consider The Battle of Britain, Amelia, Red Tails, or Flyboys. 
6. AOPA’s Protech Laptop Backpack: This backpack is designed for today’s pilot and will keep your recipient connected while on the go. It features clean and compact lines that conceal generous interior space and digital-friendly utility.

Although it may sound cliché, it truly is the thought that counts when it comes to graduation gifts. By putting thought into the gift and considering the personality and personal preferences of the graduate, you will come up with the perfect idea, regardless of your budget.

Whether you choose to give a sentimental gift, a practical gift, or a funny gift, be sure to include a heartfelt message of congratulations in the card. Your words of pride for his or her accomplishments will be the perfect complement to whatever gift you decide to give to commemorate the significant milestone.