Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Adam Miller on October 18, 2011 at 11:31am

There are many things to look at when buying an aircraft - but for pleasure the first one is how many hours a year are you planning to fly. Then comes the part about the cost vs the convenience - it may be more expensive but you can have the plane whenever you want and go wherever you want. I have also found that you learn so much more about flying from owning an aircraft as it opens you up to a whole new side of things that you never see usually.

my own opinion is that an aircraft with good maintenance history is key and ensure that a good pre buy is done - make sure you get recommendations from people who own aircraft as to good mechanics they use. The logs are critical that they are complete and up to date - with all ADs complied with - or this will effect the resale greatly.

 

Component times will effect when things are due - so look closely at the amount of hours remaining on major components and get a feel for how much it will cost to replace them - i always look at the times remaining and the amount of hours i will fly then do a 5 year forecast of cost per year - you will be suprised at what comes out. 

I hope this helps and if you have more questions be happy to answer based on my own experience

 

 

 

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Permalink Reply by Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co. on October 18, 2011 at 12:31pm

Great points, Adam - good advice!

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Permalink Reply by Matt Hocker on October 19, 2011 at 2:21pm

I'm looking to buy a plane as well, and what I've learned so far is that insurance is a big part of the decision as well. Make sure that you choose a plane that can be insured for a reasonable price and work with an agent to have a rough idea of the costs. Also don't forget about researching hangar or tie-down space.

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Permalink Reply by Breezer Aircraft USA on October 19, 2011 at 2:50pm

Hi Mike - don't forget to add the possibility of a light sport aircraft in your thinking. The running and maintenance costs are about half that needed for a regular GA aircraft. This would be a two seat aircraft, and to be flown in day/VFR conditions, which would make it a very useful first aircraft.

Check out our website www.breezeraircraftusa.com for more information or give Mike Z or myself a call at our headquarters in Plant City FL and we can give you all the advice and recommendations you need especially with regard to light sport flying.

 

Good luck in your research,

Fay 

Breezer Aircraft USA

Tel: 813-474-1337 Cell: 863-430-1987

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Permalink Reply by AeroSport LLC on October 19, 2011 at 3:21pm

As Adam Miller stated, we agree that the important thing to consider is how often you plan on flying throughout the year.  Renting planes can be very costly and always ending up in a different plane can maybe cause you to have to get used to the aircraft wasting part of your rental time, instead of really enjoying the flying aspect. 

We have recently become a Dealer of a light sport aircraft.  It is the perfect aircraft for new pilots not only because of its incredible performance and versatility, but because of its low initial cost and its low maintenance.  Our aircraft is extremely affordable, easy to maintain, robust and rugged.  It can be purchased as ready-to-fly as a certified light sport aircraft (SLSA), or also available in kit form. 

 

If you wish to look into the LSA option, don't hesitate to visit us at www.aerosportplanes.com

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Permalink Reply by Greg Force on October 19, 2011 at 5:34pm

As with everything in life expect it all to cost more than you expect.  I bought my first plane (73 Piper Arrow) a year ago and have loved every minute of owning it.  It has definitely cost me more than expected on two fronts.  First 'things' have come up (needed to reseal a fuel tank, stabilator bearing, and a really big annual with unexpected need to replace all the wheels, do brakes, reweb a seat belt, etc.) and second there is a horrible tendency to want to add new 'important' additions (more advanced GPS, interior plastic, much of it cosmetic).  It can become a huge money pit.  It's kind of like your first car, a learning experience.  I would recommend staying as simple as possible and as mentioned by other posters be aware that your desires and type of flying may change a lot in the next several years so always be looking toward your resale situation (i.e. don't add things that you won't recover the cost as wells etc.).  The other thing is make all decisions based on safety.  I have not thought twice about putting money in to repair and update the important items.  It's not a big deal to be stuck on the side of the road with a car that you put your money into nice rims rather than a tune up but completely different to have a crucial component (like engine) issue at  4,000 feet over rough terrain.  In that sense it's important to say don't do it unless you can do it right.  The Light Sport route is getting better and better also.  Hopefully the cost will come down more to make it a better option for many of us.

Have fun !

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Permalink Reply by bellanger on October 20, 2011 at 1:12am

Hi Mike, sorry for my english, coming from France !

I think, even beginning in this pleasure, i will buy a airplane ! Unfortunately for me , i don't have much money on my bank account !!!!
If you have got it , GO ! You'll love it ! You could fly with friend, go where you want (meeting, travel....) and i think that you have a big country for that !

regards

BEBEL

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Permalink Reply by Mike on October 24, 2011 at 4:48pm

Thanks so much to everyone for their replies.  Thanks to Hangarchat for putting it "out there" so-to-speak.  I enjoyed the thought-provoking replies.

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Permalink Reply by Insurance4Pilots, LLC on November 30, 2011 at 10:54am

I would be honored to offer an aviation insurance proposal for anyone looking to buy an aircraft, rent aircraft or form a partnership.  My cell is (336) 392-6555 and my website is http://www.insurance4pilots.com.  Would love to talk with you.

Lisa Otey, CPIA

Insurance4Pilots, LLC

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