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Cargo aircraft taking off of a snowy runway. Photography courtesy of Nicole Lund.
The holiday season is among us and so is the 2025 Holiday Pilot Gift Guide. Pilots can be difficult to shop for; however, this guide will keep you on center line. Here are the top five gifts for a pilot this year.
1. Garmin watch
Garmin makes several watches marketed for pilots. The Marq Aviator, D2 Mach 1 Pro, and D2 Air. Depending on the watch, Garmin has features such as multiple time zones, airport weather reports, barometric altimeter, direct-to navigation, measure oxygen levels, HIS course needle, fuel tank reminders, airport information, jet lag adviser, and more. This is a useful tool that pilots can use daily, whether they are flying single-engine pistons to multi-engine jets.
2. Pilot wallet
Zephyr is a popular brand amongst the pilot community that sells pilot wallets. These wallets are a great gift for a pilot because it keeps their pilot documents organized and looks professional when giving their credentials to a checkride examiner, FAA on a ramp check or captain while jumpseating. Pilots can keep their certificates, medical, passport, and other documents organized in the wallet. Zephyr allows you to customize the wallet and engrave the pilot's name on the front cover. This is a great gift that almost every pilot would be happy to receive.
3. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a staple for pilots. When flying, it is important that pilots protect their eyes from sun damage. There are several sunglass brands popular amongst pilots. Aviators are a classic style of sunglasses worn amongst pilots. Popular brands that sell aviators are Ray Ban and Randolph USA. Additionally, Method Seven and Flying Eyes are two brands known for comfortable glasses to wear with headsets. Many pilots can experience discomfort while wearing glasses under their headsets. These companies focus on comfort by having flexible or thin frames to comfortably fit under a headset.
4. Headset
Many pilots who are in flight training purchase inexpensive headsets when in a financial crunch. A great gift is investing in a noise-cancelling headset. Popular brands are Bose and Lightspeed. Many pilots who transition to the airlines or Part 135 flying prefer transitioning to an in-ear style of headsets, such as Clarity Aloft and the Bose Proflights. Depending on the pilot's preference, a new headset can be a great gift.
5. Etsy gifts
There are many stores on Etsy that sell airplane, tail number, and airline-specific gifts. These items are often custom-made and support small businesses. Custom pint, wine, or whiskey glasses can be etched with their name or an important date, such as a checkride or first solo. Engraved leather logbook covers, pilot-themed candles, customizable airport maps, mugs, wall décor, and more are just a few items. The custom gifts on Etsy are endless and can be sentimental.
Pilots typically love receiving practical gifts that they can use often. Custom aviation-themed gifts are also a great idea because they are one of a kind. You cannot go wrong gifting any of these five items this year. Happy holidays!