What does it cost to own an airplane?

Steve wrote:
"Larry D. Cosby" lcosby at knology dot net wrote in message
...
What are the real cost of operating a single engine airplane in today's
economy? I've rented planes over the years since I've been a licensed
pilot. (1976) . Would like to own my own, but wife says it cost too much
in maintenance costs to own our own. I'm thinking along the lines of a
Piper 180 of the mid to late 60's. A Cherokee 235 would be great for
hauling the family, but it burns a lot of fuel. 15-17 GPH. Would rather
stay below about 12 gallons an hour. Any ideas?

I was considering it briefly, but the fixed costs alone ruled it out, In my
area, a covered tiedown will run $1200/yr. Insurance will vary, but for me
and a fixed gear under 200hp was about $1500/yr. Add at least $1000/yr for
an annual. That's at least $3700/yr to *have* an aircraft. The variable
costs are directly related to the aircraft you buy, so you would have to
figure that out.

I got into a club for $1200/yr dues and $100/hr wet tach time for 2 IFR 182s
and a newer IFR 172. I would have to fly hundreds of hours a yr to justify
buyng.



I agree, you have to fly about 140 hours a year to justify a plane and a
financial adviser will suggest that you rent rather than buy. But, there
is something about going out to your hangar, opening the door, and
seeing your airplane. No body else has flown it, left it messy or you
cannot get on the schedule on that first nice day in three weeks because
everyone has beat you to it. Priceless....

--

Regards, Ross
C-172F 180HP
Sold
KSWI