The Best Gift Cards for Aircraft Pilots: Practical and Thoughtful Ideas

Ken Hyde

By Ken Hyde

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It is certainly a daunting task to decide what to gift an aircraft pilot since it is like flying in a storm without an autopilot. Get it? If not, then you are not a pilot, but it’s fine, I will be your pilot today, so hold on tight! Rather than what do pilots love, the real questions that was interesting to ask are: What do pilots cherish? Oh do not worry I will explain it for you.

As you may know pilots are a whole different kind of people. They live for the freedom that high altitude provides them, they seek the unknown and frankly I’ve never seen them get enough of flying. I can’t get over how much they’re fascinated with heights can you? So, what’s the best gift? It has to be something that is useful when they are up there flying in the cockpit. Makes sense, right?

Still stumped? No worries. Why not just give the gift card of a few dollars and be done with it? Honestly, gift card is one of those gifts that completely make sense. It is like giving it to them in a platter the freedom to decide the thing that they require only

Gift Card Choices for Aircraft Pilots

And hey, not only pilots, what person does not like a gift that makes life a little bit easier? But if you are in a dilemma as to which gift card to purchase and you are planning to skip the party all together, don’t. Let me give you a list of failproof ideas to try out.

1. Aviation Supply Stores

Just walk to the nearest aviation store and meet the manager to issue a gift card. That’s it. Hand it over and you’re done. Easy, right? Pilots are always eager for the new gear, and if you let the pilots choose something themselves, then you are their favorite.

Want to go the online route? No problem. You should shop at Sporty’s Pilot Shop, Pilot Mall or any other pilot stores that you come across. They have almost anything from headsets, bags, flight bags to cool nice gadgets. Indeed the choices will compel anyone, and that is why it is the perfect gift for any pilot. Believe it, they’ll be more grateful for it than yet another mug or key chain.

2. Gaming Gift Cards

Aircraft pilots are usually a fun bunch which is why they’ll love a gaming gift card. But for that you need to know if they use PS5, Xbox or other online games or else your gaming gift card will go to waste. Who knows, because of you, your Aviator friend might get the time to relax through some interactive gaming. If you don’t know where to look, click here and you’ll have the option to choose from hundreds of gaming gift cards. Choose the one that is perfect and make the purchase. Try to keep your budget a little higher as these games are usually expensive and you don’t want your friend paying out of his or her pocket at the end of the day.

3. Flight Simulators and Training Software

Being a pilot is not easy at all. Pilots need to practice regularly so that they can handle the worst of situations calmly. Now I know this is a broader term so just search for X-Plane or Microsoft Flight Simulator and see which ones fit your budget. These simulators are breathtaking because of the graphics. This way your friend can practice a little more and even experiment a little on new routes or difficult unforeseen situations. These simulators are a perfect blend of fun and professional development.

4. Aviation-Themed Subscription Boxes

Now this open is a little long-term so make sure the other person is important enough that you can give this to them. These subscription boxes are little collectibles made out of retired aircraft parts and accessories. Every month there’s a cute and meaningful collectible at your door if you make the purchase. If you give someone this gift card, they can choose a subscription plan and get to wait for a new collection item every month.

5. Outdoor Adventure Gift Cards

Pilots already have a sense of adventure so why not take it a notch higher so they can experience something new as well. For this choice you need to find stores that sell equipment for camping, hiking and even fishing. Once you find one, get their gift card and give it to your friend. It’s also the best way for pilots to unwind and connect with nature after long working hours inside a small cockpit.

6. Spa and Wellness Gift Cards

Now what do you think is better than games, outdoor adventures and simulations, of course a nice soothing day in a Spa. As you know flying such a big aircraft is quite demanding for the human body which is why it’s best to relax a little. Your friend might not understand it at first but after spending a day and feeling relaxed, your friend will know its worth which makes it an extremely thoughtful gift.

Wrapping Up

Aircraft pilots have to work long hours and they are always on the move from one country to another. Now these pilots get an allowance to relax wherever they are living which is why you need to give them something they might not think of or don’t want to spend their money on. Be a little proactive in finding a gift because it’s your friend we’re talking about at the end of the day.


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Ken W Hyde

Ken W Hyde

Ken W Hyde is the founder of The Wright Experience™. He is passionate about antique airplanes and has restored many of the Wright brothers' planes, including the 1918 Curtiss Jenny and the 1903 Wright Flyer. He is also a pilot and mechanic who has worked for Capital Airlines, Bendix Corporation, and American Airlines.

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