Bottom Line for a "Regular Joe"

[desertbug]

Alright – I’ve got to get to the bottom of this…I absolutely LOVE flying and most of the folks associated with general aviation. I really want to come into the market within about 12 months and be able to say “that’s my plane

There’s plenty of spreadsheets, calculators, what-if’s, “talk to an accountant,” articles/papers/messages out there regarding ownership. .” I know there’s a lot of factors involved, but I also know there are a lot of “Regular Joe’s” out there like me, so I’ll pose this:

Recent PPL, working on IFR….close to 100 hours
T-Hanger and an “All-American” Municipal airport
Late-70’s IFR, non-GPS Piper Archer with about mid-engine and fairly well records (loan about $65k)
Insurance
Fly about 10-15 hrs/month (as check-book allows)

I know this is a pretty pricey “hobby/passion” and will certainly never want to give it up. On the other hand, I have desires to be an airline jockey either….just flying w/in 400-500 miles every now and then with the wife and kids to visit family or “fun-parks” and the ever-popular “Whoa!-It’s-such-a-pretty-day-there’s-not-enough-holes-in-the-sky!” missions. Yes – all require the “Kitchen Pass” from The Boss…

If there’s ANYBODY out there that this sounds familiar to, please let me know ABOUT what you’re looking at per month (no need to be precise) for this addiction. With another baby on the way and being on a military income, I’m VERY careful with each tick of the Hobb’s meter.

Thanks!

[desertbug]

.....anybody?

[Denny of Oakland]

Airplane ownership is a great experience, however it can become the worst experiences and drain every penny you have. I have written a book that is soon to be released in the next couple of months that will explain everything you are talking about and more.

I would only suggest you wait until my book is out and read it before making any decision on buying any aircraft. I have worked with to many owners who are just like you and learned from their mistakes needless to say in my book I explain what not to do and how to protect yourself and your assets.

Being a FOB owner A&P/IA and FAA Inspector I have seen it all.

Denny of Oakland