10 Father's Day Gifts for Aviators

Pilots are a particularly unique breed to shop for. If you do happen to have an aviator in your life, selecting the perfect gift can be a little tricky.

Well, you are in luck. We have searched the net to find the ideal aviation gifts that most pilots will love, need, appreciate, and most of all – enjoy! Our detailed list of the best gifts for pilots below; we are 100% sure that you will find something that will put a smile on his face.

1. Packing Cubes: We have these functional packing cubes with fun aviation designs for the aviator who is always on the go. Lightweight ripstop nylon packing cubes help organize everything you put into your suitcase. Each cube has a built-in stuff pouch to keep it tucked away, yet handy when you need it. The small cube features a sea scene with a floatplane and measures 10" x 8" x 3.5". 
2. Dual-Band ADS-B Receiver: This Dual-Band ADS-B Receiver works hand-in-hand with the ForeFlight Mobile app and is the ultimate travel buddy for serious pilots who need constant updates on weather forecasts and traffic reports. Essentially, the receiver gathers the info and then sends it to a mobile device where, together with the functionality of the accompanying app, all the information on the traffic and weather is neatly displayed on your smart device's screen. It is readily available for the journey ahead.
3. Aviation-Themed Crew Socks: If fancy technical devices are a little overbearing, the old traditional socks will still make a fantastic give for any man who has a fascination with the world of aviation. They feature an argyle design with "AOPA" on the bottom. Made from cotton, nylon, and spandex, these socks look great and feel great, too—knit-in jacquard design. 

1. Aviation Books: When the pilot in your life isn't in the skies, he may be up for relaxing with a book on aviation history. We recommend The Flight, which tells the tale of Charles Lindbergh's daring transatlantic crossing.
2. Flashlight: Every pilot needs a good flashlight, and this one has fantastic reviews.
3. AOPA Pilot Guides: Now that things are opening up more, why not surprise him with a trip? Even if not right away, these guides can help you be prepared when you are ready to go. The guides include planning information to help you decide where to go and how to get there, detailed information about all the airports in the Islands of the Bahamas and the Caribbean, aerial photos of the airports, general information about each island/country, and travel information for a while you're there including island maps, accommodation, and activity information.
4. Bose Aviation Headset: Bose is the premium brand in quality audio, and its headset is one gift the aviator in your life will drool over. It's pricey, but isn't he worth it?
5. Cranston Hat: If $1,000 is just too steep for you, this classically cool hat will be sure also to win your father figure over. This relaxed, 5-panel flat brim hat is made of 85% acrylic and 15% wool and is decorated with a brown leather patch with the '39 AOPA logo.
6. Airplane Mount for GoPro: One thing about pilots is they love taking pictures. And, who can blame them? With views that they get to experience, it's a no-brainer. Crafted from aluminum aircraft, the MyPilotPro can be attached to virtually any General Aviation or Light-Sport aircraft with tie-downs, which means that it can be utilized by almost all private pilots and student pilots alike.
7. Family Customizable Print: If your aviator is always on the go, remind Dad that, despite this distance, you’re always close at heart with this adorable customizable map print.

However, you’re able to mark Sunday, June 20 this year (anyone else craving a backyard barbecue?), picking out the perfect gift to show the dads in your life how much you love and appreciate them is truly a delightful experience. And, from everyone at AOPA, Happy Father’s Day!