Ive wanted one from time to time, so I figure now's the time. I'm starting lessons in a couple of weeks and will be working on that 3 day's a week. It's getting to cold for golf anyway. I should have my private pilots cert by spring. I'm looking at planes now.
My wife said it will have to count as my Christmas present. I'm kind of excited, whoo-hoo!
Now I will be able to cruise at 140mph and be llegal.
Is there a decent flying club at your airport? For the vast majority of people it's easier (and more economical) to rent than buy.
It's a fun hobby. I gave it up once the kids started taking all my time and money but maybe when they are gone I'll pick it up again.
Look into renting or sharing an airplane. The maintenance cost on an airplane can make the fun of ownership go away pretty fast.
I'm starting lessons this year too, and after some analysis, have decided it is far more frugal and simple to share ownership or rent time on a plane than to keep one entirely by myself.
I think I've already lined up a share in a de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver that spends most of its time sitting in a nice hanger someone else owns :-)
I agree with the renting or sharing idea, or better yet, if you simply must enjoy the thrill of ownership, consider a fractional ownership deal with X number of flight hours per year. The cost per hour can get pretty high on private planes and it's good to share that with others.
In my corporate days, I was involved for a few years in our flight dept. Managing a Gulfstream III, a Falcon 900EX and a fractional ownership on an older Saab was an eye-opening experience. The only way to keep the expense managable was to increase the number of flight hours per year by making the aircraft available to as many of our subsidiaries as possible.
I'm assuming you're not looking at $35M jets, but the same principles apply.
Edited to add: One thing for aircraft owners to remember. You park your coat on a hanger, and your plane in a hangar.
Last edited by Alan; 11-14-11 at 9:03pm.
"Things should be made as simple as possible, but not one bit simpler." ~ Albert Einstein
Used to work on the de Havilland Beaver many many years ago when I was in the Army. Very few problems nothing like rotary wing aircraft.
I'm looking more at the Cessna 172, Piper Cherokee size. If I would need more, I would rent. Most of the time it would just be the wife and I. Most trips under 300 mile range. I know renting would be cheaper, but I feel there are advantages to owning also. I guess I have a problem with how some other people treat things, especially rentals. But I'm still in the exploratory mode now, things may change.
I thought about starting a few times, but never had the time with work and kids to take care of. My wife and I went to a car show at the local county airport a few weeks ago and I got to thinking about it again. I told her a plane would cost somewhere between a sports car and the house. She said it was fine with her. It may not be the most frugal thing, but we can afford it.Originally Posted by East River Guide
hey good luck with that dmc. I'll wave when you fly over my house! I won't ask for a ride because I am terrified of small planes and amateur pilots. Sorry!
I hope all turns out well for you and you are able to full-fill your dream, Dmc. What an accomplishment, obtaining a pilots license, and in addition to, possibly (eventually) owning your own plane. Wow! Do keep us updated.
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