Ivan:
Similar experiences here. Re-gained my currency last Feb, after 21 years.
I've flown about 60 hrs since then - limited more by availability of a/c
than anything else.
A 172 will run you in the neighborhood of 800-900 per year for both
liability and hull insurance. I don't know about Oregon, but in TX, no
insurance is required. You *can* purchase liability only. IIRC, it was
around 250 for my experience levels.
Basically, you're protecting yourself. If you have the resources to walk
away from an a/c, and don't have a loan out on it, you don't need hull
insurance. Not wise in my opinion, but its your option.
Carl
"Ivan Vegvary" wrote in message
news

I am new to this newsgroup, and kind of new to flying. (Took lessons
exactly 30 years ago = 53 hours). I am on my second lesson.
Question. Trying to figure the cost of airplane ownership. Is insurance
mandatory (Oregon resident) or is it strictly to insure MY airplane, if I
wish. If mandatory (public liability?) what would some typical costs be
for, say, a C172, at my low hours. By the time I am licensed I will
probalby have a total of 100 hours, although only the last 50 would be
recent.
All replies appreciated.
Ivan Vegvary
Sandy, Oregon