102 top aviation resources you need to know
Take your love of aviation to new heights with a comprehensive selection of relevant resources. Here you’ll find some of the best and most popular aviation websites to help you excel, improve and get inspired daily. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot, teacher or student, you’ll find something that’s right for you.
Learn more about important government organizations, the best flight simulators, scholarships, reliable news sites, podcasts and so much more. Or start planning that trip to visit renowned aviation and aerospace museums and flight memorials around the country (yes, we’ve even got that covered) to nurture your passion and expand your knowledge.
This is your one-stop guide for all things aviation. Find out what’s going on behind closed cockpit doors in the sky and everything you need to know on the ground to one day take flight.
Government websites for general aviation information and education
Check out this list of authoritative resources for aviation enthusiasts, students and educators. The following are key websites that aviation lovers and professionals should have on hand for reference and helpful services.
FAA student resources for aviation and aerospace
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides a list of useful resources, including up-to-date information needed to help you discover, explore and pursue different careers in aviation.
FAA regulations
Keep up with relevant aviation and air regulations from the FAA. Be in the know about necessary certifications, general operating requirements, flight rules, legislation, current policies and important bulletins. The National Archives Code of Federal Regulations website allows you to look up various FAA Regulations related to aeronautics and space, transportation and more.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s How Things Fly answers your pressing questions about the basic principles that make it possible for aircraft and spacecraft to fly. It’s informative for children, students and adults alike.
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) STEM resources for K-12 educators
NASA STEM resources for K-12 educators offer a range of topics and lesson plan ideas that are bound to spark curiosity and expand learning horizons. Discover aerospace activities and lessons you can bring to the classroom.
Aviation Weather Center (AWC)
The Aviation Weather Center is a go-to, trusted resource for reliable, consistent and accurate aviation weather information.
Interagency Aviation Training (AIT)
Interagency Aviation Training is the website home for the Department of the Interior (DOI), U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service (USDA-FS) and partner organizations. It offers aviation training, including information about upcoming events and courses.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA)
Find educational tools and helpful lesson ideas with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association's resources. Bring NOAA science and real-time data into your classroom with a focus on weather, climate and the atmosphere.
National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO)
Dedicated to supporting a robust aviation system in the United States, NASAO is an organization that represents the interests of the public before policymakers in matters related to aviation and airports.
Best flight simulators and games
Explore resources that can help budding aviation students get a glimpse of what to expect in the cockpit—right on your computer.
FlightGear flight simulator
The FlightGear flight simulator is a free and open-source multi-platform simulator developed by the FlightGear project, and it has been active since 1997.
GeoFS flight simulator
Compatible with web browsers as well as iOS and Android, GeoFS flight simulator has multi-player capabilities, navigation charts with 40,000 referenced runways and real-time weather.
YSFlight
YSFlight is a free, web-based flight simulation game. Play in teams, engage in combat, use navigation instruments to plot a solo flight or join online forums that are great for newcomers and seasoned veterans.
RORTOS
RORTOS allows you to experience flying (solo or with other players) in other parts of the world while exploring different airports, 3D buildings, runways and air traffic. Customize planes, weather conditions and much more.
PicaSim
PicaSim is a flight simulator for radio-controlled aircraft that’s available for Windows and in the app stores. This game also allows you to modify your own planes (mostly gliders) and scenery.
Aviation resources for educators
Enhance your aviation teaching with a variety of resources that can be used in the classroom, including lesson plans, activities, seminars, videos and more.
NASA Glenn Research Center lesson plans
The NASA Glenn Research Center offers activities ranging from a scavenger hunt to role-playing to tracking the history of air travel—all designed to help foster a child’s love of airplanes and air transportation.
FAA educator activities
The FAA brings you educator activities that are broken down by grade level. Featuring stimulating puzzles and hands-on experiments, here you’ll find the right activity for your classroom.
NASA’s aeronautics classroom activities
The goal of NASA's aeronautics classroom activities is to make learning fun. Whether it’s the Paper Airplane Activity or learning more about the role that air plays in flying, these memorable exercises are bound to engage and excite.
“What Makes Airplanes Fly? History, Science and Applications of Aerodynamics”
This curriculum from the Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute brings together topics like aerodynamics, physics and the historical developments of the aerospace industry.
Fly to Learn resources
Useful for educators and pilots, Fly to Learn resources include videos, presentations and lesson plans for everyone interested in flying and aviation.
AIAA STEM teacher resources
K-12 teacher resources from AIAA STEM help encourage the next generation of aerospace professionals by exposing them to subjects that include science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Estes Rockets lesson plans
Ideal for classrooms and youth programs, Estes Rockets lesson plans help engage students with rocket-themed activities in topics like STEM, social studies and ELA.
The Museum of Flight educator resources
Useful tools and information provided by The Museum of Flight, these educator resources are designed to help assist your students who may be participating in the museum’s STEM education programs.
National Air and Space Museum resources
Activities and resources from the National Air and Space Museum include learning labs, guides and other professional development sessions for teachers.
Aviation resources for students
Up-to-date aviation news, live air traffic, helpful advice and other useful information for students and amateur pilots.
ForeFlight Mobile Electronic Flight Bag
Designed by pilots, ForeFlight serves the needs of pilots and flight departments around the world. It also offers everything you need to plan, file and log flights. Plus, get weather reports, airport information and much more.
AirNav app
AirNav is a convenient iPhone app that helps you to look up fuel prices, FBO services and important details for U.S. airports.
AVweb
Described as the “world’s premier independent aviation news resource,” AVweb is an online publication that provides general aviation news, flight safety updates, classifieds and information on air shows, events and avionics.
LiveATC
Listen to live air traffic control updates with LiveATC. Get broadcasts from air traffic control towers and radar facilities around the world.
Ask a Flight Instructor
Get answers to popular flight training questions with Ask a Flight Instructor. Certified flight instructors offer insight, and you can also browse forums in categories related to FAA regulations, aircraft systems, instrument rating and more.
Aviation news and blogs
Check out our roundup of must-read online publications for the latest news in aviation and aerospace for pilots, student pilots and individuals passionate about flying.
FlightGlobal news
Read breaking aviation news from FlightGlobal. Find in-depth analysis, insightful commentary, air show coverage, job information and more about what’s going on in the global aviation industry.
Aerospace Technology
Updated daily, Aerospace Technology brings you the latest aircraft and aerospace news covering new aircraft, airlines, pilot technology and more.
Airline Economics
Your daily news source, Airline Economics is dedicated to the coverage of global aviation. Plus, read journals, find events and awards, check out new podcasts and attend virtual events.
AINonline
Get business, general, commercial and private aviation news from AINonline. Stay abreast of the latest developments related to airplanes, helicopters and unmanned aircraft.
Cranky Flier blog
Cranky Flier is a consumer air travel blog with a touch of snark. It also covers news and other happenings in the airline industry.
Hangar Flying
Join the airline conversation with Hangar Flying. This is your destination for online news, aviation forums, flying tips, pilot blogs, a marketplace, podcasts and more.
NYCAviation
NYCAviation’s goal is to educate the public about aviation. The website offers research, interviews, plane-spotting tips, photo sharing and forums for aviation professionals and aficionados.
SimpliFlying blog
Known as a leading airline marketing strategy company, SimpliFlying aids aviation professionals in building brands. Their blog covers aviation industry insights and key news.
The Aviationist
Launched in 2006, The Aviationist is a widely read and respected military aviation website and blog.
Airline Reporter
Airline Reporter is an industry blog that has focused on aviation, airline and travel industry news since 2009.
Avgeekery
Get aviation history, news and stories with Avgeekery, a site run by self-proclaimed aviation geeks, made up of enthusiasts and professionals.
Aviation podcasts and videos
Check out some of the best aviation podcast selections. Get refreshing hot takes by pilots and aviation experts. Discover compelling stories, stimulating conversations and practical advice.
Cranky Concierge
Cranky Concierge is a podcast with a focus on aviation and travel. Listen to episodes ranging from interviews with airline professionals to in-depth coverage of pressing airline and aviation topics.
Pilot to Pilot
Pilot to Pilot is an aviation podcast that seeks to inspire and motivate professional and amateur aviators. Get swept up in interviews with pilots or do a deep dive into the industry.
The Fighter Pilot Podcast™
Learn more about air combat with The Fighter Pilot Podcast. Each episode centers around topics pertaining to various aircraft features, weapons systems and more.
The Finer Points: Aviation Podcast
Get tips and tools to enhance your pilot experience with The Finer Points, an educational aviation podcast focused on flight training, complete with YouTube videos.
Stuck Mic AvCast
The Stuck Mic AvCast podcast is about learning to fly. It covers topics related to flying techniques, aviation product reviews and more.
Airline Pilot Guy
The Airline Pilot Guy aviation podcast offers a pilot’s perspective on what goes on behind the scenes (aka the cockpit door). Join in to hear about topics related to airline safety, incidents, accidents and weather.
Cockpits & Cocktails
Aviation, air travel and the aeronautics industry come together in the Cockpits & Cocktails podcast. Episodes offer a blend of aviation stories combined with notable characters and interview subjects.
Careers in Aviation video series
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in aviation, check out the Careers in Aviation video series. Each video highlights a professional with a unique job in the aviation industry.
Aviation and aerospace museums to visit
Put these must-see museums and memorials on your travel adventure list. Check out sites that celebrate aviation, space and important historical figures.
Museum of Aviation at Robins Air Force Base
Known as the second largest museum in the United States Air Force, the Museum of Aviation at Robins Air Force Base celebrates its Air Force heritage while honoring veterans and their families.
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force™ (USAF)
The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force showcases military aviation history, hundreds of aerospace vehicles and historic artifacts.
Hill Aerospace Museum
At the Hill Aerospace Museum in Utah, you’ll find military aircraft, missiles and other artifacts. The museum’s mission is to inspire both young and old alike through the history of aviation.
Air Force Armament Museum
The Air Force Armament Museum is known for being the only museum in the world committed to the preservation and exhibition of artifacts related to the Air Force Armament. Explore aircraft from WWII to the present, and view gun collection displays, bombs, missiles and much more.
Glenn H. Curtiss Museum
Dedicated to the aviation and motorcycle pioneer of the same name, the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport, New York, has a collection of memorabilia related to the early history of aviation and the region itself.
Military Aviation Museum
The Military Aviation Museum, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, has a collection of historic airplanes (mainly from WWI and WWII) on display from the last century. Some of the planes are still functional and fly from Virginia Beach Airport.
Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum
The Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum honors the first all-African-American fighter pilot squadron. Learn more about the history of these aviators, and explore educational programs that help nurture future generations of aviation professionals.
Kalamazoo Aerospace Museum
Also known as the Air Zoo, the Kalamazoo Aerospace Museum encourages aviation exploration by bringing you interactive exhibits, flight simulators, amusement park rides, as well as air and space artifacts.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Consistently ranked as one of the top aviation attractions, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is dedicated to honoring the defense of American freedom and the response to the attack on December 7, 1941, a date which will live in infamy. Discover artifacts and stories related to the day that led to America entering World War II.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum houses the world’s largest and most renowned collection of air and space travel artifacts. Its exhibits include aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, rockets and more.
Museum of Flying
Get a historical perspective at the Museum of Flying in Santa Monica, California. Attend lectures with noted aircraft experts, and learn more about the development of aviation, with a focus on Southern California and the Douglas Aircraft Company.
Stafford Air and Space Museum
Named after the test pilot and astronaut, Lt. General Thomas P. Stafford, the Stafford Air and Space Museum in Oklahoma offers sprawling exhibits. As a visitor, you can expect to also learn more about the legendary man behind the name.
Wings Over the Rockies
Committed to an overview of aviation history, the Wings Over the Rockies museum features exhibits and memorabilia that showcase historic aircraft and artifacts. It also offers immersive experiences and flight simulators.
Wright Brothers National Museum
Located in Dayton, Ohio, the Wright Brothers National Museum is an open-air museum. Here you’ll find more Wright brothers’ artifacts than anywhere else in the world, and you’ll be able to witness the 1905 Wright Flyer III, the only airplane on the list of National Historic Landmarks.
Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum
The Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum’s goal is to honor Earhart’s legacy and impact on the aviation industry. Don’t forget to check out Muriel, the museum’s focal point and the last remaining model of the airplane that Earhart flew the night she went missing.
Wright Brothers National Park
Pay homage to the famous brothers in North Carolina at the Wright Brothers National Park. Visit the monument erected to celebrate the pioneers of aviation and inventors that truly took the world to new heights.
Kansas Aviation Museum
Check out the aircraft on display at the Kansas Aviation Museum. Explore the historic art-deco airport terminal, or partake in education programs and experiences designed to pique your love of aviation.
Additional aviation organizations, groups and more
Find aviation associations, clubs, courses, academic papers and other resources for those interested in flying.
The Academy of Model Aeronautics
The Academy of Model Aeronautics is a nationwide community for model aviation hobbyists. This nonprofit organization promotes model aviation education and activities, whether for competition or simply recreation.
National Coalition for Aviation and Space Education
The National Coalition for Aviation and Space Education (NCASE) partners with the FAA and other agencies to promote education about aviation and space exploration. Its initiatives range from the local to national level.
Gleim Aviation
Originating from Dr. Gleim’s success in pilot training authorship, Gleim Aviation offers aviation education for pilots and aviation mechanics.
Academic papers on aviation
Collecting academic aviation articles from various university sources, Academic papers on aviation serves as a convenient research tool.
The SKYbrary
The SKYbrary compiles a wealth of safety information from regulators, industry experts and more. This safety compendium covers aviation operations, air traffic management and general aviation safety knowledge.
National Association of High School Aviation Clubs
The National Association of High School Aviation Clubs provides help and information for the creation and maintenance of high school aviation clubs. The site features a portal for a student community and resources for aviation education and career opportunities.
Free courses for NASAO members
Joining the National Association of State Aviation Officials means access to free courses for NASAO members. These courses cover aviation training, aviation engineering, environmental planning, project funding and more.
FAPA Future Pilot Seminars
From an organization that specializes in professional and financial advisement for pilots, FAPA Future Pilot Seminars are open to pilots of all ages (with flight hours up to 250) interested in aviation careers.
Future Aviation Aerospace Workforce
From the website home of the Future Aviation Aerospace Workforce newsletter, this resource page is made up of references from numerous articles related to aviation and aerospace education and careers, highlighting free and paid programs.
National Business Aviation Association
The National Business Aviation Association represents thousands of professionals and companies that use general aviation aircraft for business purposes. Aside from advocating for the business aviation community, NBAA offers professional development opportunities and runs the largest civil trade show for aviation in the world.
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
AOPA's mission is to support the dream of flight for any aspiring pilot. Through pilot resources, public education (including an air safety institute) and advocacy, AOPA encourages a passion for aviation.
American Association of Airport Executives
As an organization for airport employees, the American Association of Airport Executives’ members include terminal workers, airfield staff and executives. Benefits include networking opportunities, education and representation for national political action.
National Air Traffic Controllers Association
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association is an advocacy organization owned by its almost 20,000 air traffic control, engineer and other aviation safety employee members.
Southeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives
The Southeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives is part of the American Association of Airport Executives, and it promotes the airport management field through education, accreditation and networking opportunities.
Experimental Aircraft Association
The Experimental Aircraft Association was started by aviation enthusiasts building planes on their own and now covers all manners of the appreciation of recreational and vintage aircraft.
National Air Transportation Association
As a national aviation business trade association, the National Air Transportation Association provides federal representation, and it also offers education- and professional-focused benefits to members.
International Air Transport Association
The International Air Transport Association serves the airline industry through the development of global standards and smarter regulation through its partnership with 260 airline members.
Women in Aviation
Women in Aviation is a nonprofit based around the goal of advancing women in various aviation fields like aeronautics, aviation maintenance, airport management, industry journalism, air traffic control, education and much more.
Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)
As the world’s largest pilot union for the airline industry, the Air Line Pilots Association helps ensure safety and security for pilots and that they are represented in Washington and paid fairly by airlines.
Aviation scholarships
Find grants and scholarships to help finance your education in aviation. Choose from a wide selection of options, including scholarships for women, minorities and high school students.
Able Flight
Able Flight is a nonprofit organization that offers scholarships for people with disabilities for aviation and flight training.
AEFCO scholarships
AEFCO scholarships are merit-based for Aviation Education Foundation of Colorado (AEFCO) program participants and partially cover flight training costs.
AIAA scholarships
Students interested in science, technology, engineering and math are eligible for AIAA scholarships, which are aviation scholarships for high school students from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
COPA Aviation Career & Scholarship Guide
The Canadian Owners and Pilots’ Association COPA Aviation Career & Scholarship Guide features over 100 aviation training scholarships, including awards for women and specializations like helicopter training and group operations and maintenance.
FAA list of grants and scholarships
The FAA list of grants and scholarships contains general aviation scholarships, minority scholarships, grants and more.
The Museum of Flight student scholarships
From aiding in pursuing post-secondary STEM education to flight training, The Museum of Flight student scholarships present a range of yearly opportunities for high school students.
Sisters of the Sky scholarships
Sisters of the Sky scholarships help increase the number of professional Black women pilots. These scholarships assist in offsetting the cost of flight training and more.
Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation
The scholarships provided by the Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation help students pay for college. Candidates must be nominated by TAI Chapters.
Whirly-Girls scholarship offerings
Whirly-Girls scholarships are awarded to women to help advance their careers in aviation. Choose from flight and helicopter training, course and eLearning scholarships.
University Aviation Association (UAA) scholarships
University Aviation Association (UAA) scholarships include collegiate, flight training and jet scholarships to suit a variety of interests in the field of aviation.
Southeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives scholarships
The Southeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives offers annual scholarships to students majoring in aviation management. It also provides an annual scholastic scholarship to a school in states represented by the Southeastern Airport Managers Association (SAMA).
Aviation magazines
Stay in the know with aviation publications that span a variety of topics and interests. From news and history to building your own aircraft to buying the newest equipment and accessories, these magazines are brimming with useful information.
Plane & Pilot Magazine
Step into the world of aviation with Plane & Pilot Magazine. For over 50 years, this publication has been delivering coverage about the latest planes, avionics, pilot gear and more.
Flying
Billed as the world’s leading aviation magazine, Flying has been in circulation since 1927, delivering trusted news, gear reviews, aircraft discussions and more. It’s the largest aviation magazine in circulation, and it’s available via subscription.
Flight Journal
Flight Journal is a popular magazine that offers aviation news and stories, and it also covers topics related to aviation history, aircraft restoration, notable aviation figures and much more.
Airways Magazine
Described as the world's top commercial aviation magazine, Airways Magazine was founded in 1994. It’s a premier news source that covers the latest in the commercial space affecting pilots, airlines and more. Plus, they have a robust presence on Twitter.
Key.Aero: Aviation magazines
Key.Aero publishes a range of aviation magazines to appeal to a wide audience. Whether you’re interested in the history of aviation or want to keep up with air force news, here you’ll find quality content on many aviation topics.
Air Classics
Air Classics brings aviation history to life. Read firsthand accounts of fighter pilots, and check out photographs of historic aircraft that are bound to please professional pilots and aficionados alike.
Kitplanes Magazine
Kitplanes Magazine caters to homebuilt aircraft enthusiasts. From categories like Designer’s Handbook to Builder Spotlight, this is an indispensable source for building or owning experimental aircraft.
Air and Space Quarterly
Associated with the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, Air and Space Quarterly covers topics related to aviation and aerospace. From history to present day, there’s something for everyone.
The Aviation Consumer
For over five decades, The Aviation Consumer has been evaluating the latest releases in avionics, accessories, equipment and more so that both pilots and aircraft owners can make informed buying decisions.
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