NBAA Mourns Passing of General Aviation Icon Hal Shevers, Founder of Sporty's Pilot Shop
The general aviation community is mourning the loss of Hal Shevers, the iconic founder of Sporty's Pilot Shop. Shevers, who passed away at 86, was a visionary entrepreneur who transformed the industry. He began Sporty's in 1961 from the trunk of his car, building it into a global resource for pilot supplies and training materials. Known for his innovative approach, he pioneered video-based flight courses and embraced e-commerce, making aviation more accessible to generations of pilots. His legacy as an innovator, educator, and philanthropist has left an indelible mark on aviation.
Official Source: https://nbaa.org/2026-press-releases/nbaa-marks-the-passing-of-general-aviation-icon-hal-shevers/