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All great considerations. I would add one more and that is pride of ownership. Unfortunately pilots treat rentals like rentals. Unauthorized aerobatics or an exceptionally hard landing will never get reported. I love preflighting my plane knowing who flew it last(I don’t loan it out). I would put the most important reason as maintenance. When you fly the same plane all the time, small changes in feel will be noticed early and issues can be addressed before they become a problem in flight. For the hours I fly annually, buying a plane was the dumbest financial decision I have made in my life but I don’t regret it. I just recently retired and now work part time, in the process of fixing the low hours problem.
Even after you have a problem in flight. Had an old straight tail 172, lost the tach inflight, almost a non-event since I knew the engine sounds so well. Ditto for losing airspeed indicator, feel of the control surfaces and wind noises in the cabin told me all I needed to know.
Owning an airplane is like having a kid. You can run spreadsheets until you are sick of it, and its never going to make financial sense. Its more of an emotional decision.
My wife and I were just talking about this. The dance between plane availability, your availability and weather (not to mention my CFI) is quite a bit of work. Thanks Charlie
Well, buying one would only affect airplane availability. You probably won't need a CFI by the time you purchase one. Although, I guess, some people buy an airplane first then get their license in it... Way nicer than having to always book whatever beaten Skyhawk is available at the school on any given day!
Great video. Two more benefits of ownership. 1) Safety . I think it is safer to consistently fly the same plane. The systems procedures, layouts, sounds, feel, speeds, stay the same. 2) Peace of mind. You become responsible for getting maintenance done so you can decide what gets done and when. If, like me you don’t put off maintenance, you might feel better than if you don’t know what the rental company does.
This video was very helpful. I think I’m finally at that inflection point where I need to really think about buying my own airplane. What’s really pushing a decision as well, is the shrinking availability of rental aircraft. Many of the Flight schools in my area, in the north east region, are going to an ATP like model. So what that means is they bought a fleet of brand new piper 181, that they use for accelerated Flight School programs, but they don’t allow people with licenses to rent them. Because of that, availability is even lower than it was some years ago. So, I’m looking! Thank you for these videos, they’ve been very helpful.
I feel you. I did a whole webinar (it wasn't live, but it was the length and style of a webinar) on buying an airplane in case it helps: ruclips.net/video/oIgX89kf6r4/видео.html
Charlie, when I think you can’t make a better video than previous ones, you create one that absolutely surpasses them. Although this video is only ~11 minutes, you cover so many topics with a surface-level introduction that delivers solid reasons to understand my own objectives in aviation. Additionally, tying topic points to past videos makes this video even more valuable as a learning tool. I am very much looking to the upcoming video. Now, I just have to brush up on my Excel skills to make a nice break even graph as I develop my aviation plan.
Thanks Eric, that was really nice of you to say. I'm really glad you found it useful! Excited for you to pursue aircraft ownership, it's an awesome journey.
Good things to think about, and thanks for the video and information. Years ago the cost of annuals, regular maintenance, hanger, fuel etc..etc. etc.. was manageable. Even training and getting PP licenses and ratings were reasonable. However, today the costs are ridiculous, add to that the initial output cost to purchase your own aircraft might be out of reach for your 100 hour-a-year G/A fly for fun pilot. I see a lot of pilots go in for 'shared ownership', or use the aircraft as a business write down.
A plane that suits your location is important too, if you need to rent tie-down/hanger in the next town over vs getting a STOL experimental that can use the neighbor's pasture. (But then if it is classified 103 rather than experimental [23] many busy airports will be off limits, even if you the PIC are a fully current, instrument rated, certified pilot.)
Under freedom you can consider if the FBO or rental owner will allow for grass strips or back country. There were two locations to rent in our community and both had so many restrictions, and they didn't allow landing on those types of strips. Living in MT, it's nice to get to some of the back country strips, and the rental plane didn't allow for that.
This is a great channel. Thank you I am just starting off here in California and Texas. I am just starting the school and this has been incredibly helpful and informative.
I just bought a 182Q... your videos helped me decide what to do. You can't put everything on just the financials. The convenience factor was a major part of the decision for me.
I sold my plane a few years ago, anticipating renting. Such a pain to rent, for me. When I owned, I traveled from west to east coast and back. Across water to Catalina Island. That all stopped.
Great video! You covered all the bases, and provide additional links for more detail. Very relatable. 100% agree that it isn't good for a plane to only be flown a couple of hours a month, contrasted with freedom to fly having value. Looking forward to the step by step process, although I think I'll stay renting for now.
I went the club route. We all have a share we purchase and can sell . We share the cost.Fortunately I have not run into a time we didn’t have at least one of the aircraft available.
Charlie, one excellent video guy. You really break down all the most important points of ownership. For me, I just want to fly whenever I can and owning my own would enable me to do that. Renting is ok, but me personally, I like knowing what I have when I get in the left seat. Had a nice C150L, sold it just because I thought it was the right time----I regret it now!! Looking for a decent C172, but wow, they are very proud of them. It's just a sellers market now, just may have to wait a bit longer. Thanks again from Deep Down in Cajun Country--KOPL.
Thanks Randall! Glad you enjoyed it. The good thing about 172's is that there are so many of them that eventually you will be able to find the right one for sure. Hang in there! Would be a great plane to own.
So, if I only want to come down for fuel, food, changing out passengers and restroom breaks I should consider buying at least one plane :+). Awesome video!!! Thank you!!!!!!!
Hi Charlie. Such a good topic to discuss. An additional piece that would be interesting to hear you speak about is partial ownership. Sharing the cost with another person or more.
That was a big factor to me, that renting effectively precludes long trips. The guys renting the aircraft are not going to want you to take an aircraft for multiple days while flying that aircraft only a few hours per day.
Yup. I'm also reluctant to take a rental on a longer trip 'cause I have that much less trust in it. Most rental aircraft I've seen are in a condition which I'd consider barely flightworthy. Let along adequate for a longer trip. Owning an airplane and knowing that noone beat on it since you (or your trusted mechanic) have done your maintenance on it and fixed the issues - there's some value in that. Even if the cost per hour ends up being higher than that of a rental
Excellent video. I’m strongly considering buying my own airplane this year to build time towards a pilot career, and for all reasons described in the video. I also work as an A&P mechanic on piston singles, so my intention would be to do all of my own maintenance and annuals to save on labor costs.
Great breakdown Charlie (as usual). This will be so helpful for many people, takes some of the emotion out of the decision and inserts logic and a clear process/breakdown to follow.
The big thing that's keeping me from renting and pushing me toward buying is all of the stupid "no soft/short/rough fields" clauses in rental agreements. I want to fly in the back-country of Idaho. I want to land on my friends grass strip at his house. A lot of the rental agreements are understandable, but c'mon man. Lemme land in places that are challenging.
Seems most people find the bubble between 80-100 hours a year. E.g. under 80 definitely not, over 100 definitely yes, but in between...hard decision. :)
Loved the pass by the Wasatch Front! I grew up in the shadow of Timpanogos, so that caught my eye :P Timp, Pleasant Grove G, Point of the Mountain, Mount Olympus :D
2500hr ppl here. The biggest problem today is even with $2500 you’re spending about $1600 per $40,000 insured a year on insurance on experimental. Luckily i land on my on hay field I don’t have to pay those high dollar hanger rents. But then the insurance company tells me that landing off airport brings the cost up due to not having fire and rescue. Heck unless you’re at a class D or above you’re not getting fire and rescue anyway. Hell in today’s times, buying and owning the plane is almost the cheapest part of ownership, the insurance, and hanger rent. Good friend of mine has an RV 7 in Huntsville Texas for a private hanger is right at $500 a month and his insurance runs about $350 a month. I personally know he paid cash for the plane and it still cost him $850 a month in fees just to own it. Great video Bobby just be sure and touch on the after cost of purchasing your own plane. Insurance, hanger rent, putting money back for engine overhauls, equipment failures, and the list goes on and on.
Get your hay field listed as a private airport on the sectional. That's about all most of them are around here, hard to spot them even with a map on a clear day.
Hi Gary - I definitely agree that there are lots of follow on costs that go into ownership. My other video that I link to towards the end covers those. Hangars have gotten really expensive but I am not paying as much in insurance as you listed here. Mine has been about $800-1k per year for $100k in hull value.
If you are spending $2000 per month in rentals (about 100hr/yr) then you can definitely budget ownership in the $40k to $60K aircraft range....with a partner it's even easier... but get a pre-buy, you don't want surprises.
55 hours and 6 months into training... Although attainable, I've gone from wanting a fast traveling Mooney, to a basic IFR trainer, to just being content with renting for now. Realistically, I'm not ready to take on the extra time, responsibility and financial burden of owning. I don't think students really know what their missions will be. I'll just stick to making those rental hours count. One day though.
Chris - I think this is so good to be introspective like this. Sounds like you have a good handle on your mission right now and what you're looking for.
As a few other people pointed out - owning an aircraft brings the peace of mind that you know it's condition, and any issues with it - that much more than any rental - which could develop any problems and you'd be the last to know it.
Rented for decades before buying my plane. Sold it 2yrs ago to support one of my kids' careers. Feeling miserable without it so I'm back in the market to buy one. Prices are crazy now.
Great video. This breaks it down nicely. We have a plane available for our employees to use, so they can build flight time and make flying more available and affordable!
Break even for me was 25-50hrs/year for a C150. 50hrs/yr when I included the monthly loan payment, 25hrs/yr once paid off. Complete lack of flexibility in renting for me, which further reduced the hours I flew each year had I had the access to an airplane.
Charlie, as always, great video! After just receiving my Private certificate, the local single seat C152 is great for building hours and a no brainer on renting over buying. But looking ahead and eventually wanting to be able to do weekend or short week trips that story changes drastically. There are not a whole lot of spread sheets out there that are factoring the type of flying you are doing. 60 hours a year is one thing for day sight seeing trips, but if you do 5 weekend adventures of 6hrs of flying that 60 hours of flight might look a lot closer to 100 hours a year cost wise. I will say as someone just getting into this and looking forward to actually going places outside of my local practice area, this subject isnt talked about too often. $600 worth of flight time for a weekend trip (yes, i am fortunate enough to have a place with low rental rates still) could easily look more like a $1200 rental. That is going to take a LOT of convincing for the wife! But might make owning more reasonable with less hours flown a year.
Hi Bradley - just so I understand, are you saying that to flying 60 hours a year if you own the airplane costs the same as 100 hours per year renting because of the fixed costs involved? If so, yeah that's what i was trying to kind of touch on in the video here that sometimes the freedom is worth more to you than the financial break even, so that owning to fly 60 hours a year is still more worth it to you even though it costs more than renting. On the other hand, you might find that it really isn't worth owning until you can do 100 hours per year so that owning is actually cheaper than renting. It will be unique for everyone. My view was that as long as I could get it somewhat close, it was way more worth it to own vs. rent.
@@AirplaneAcademy I was trying to say the opposite actually. When you factor in daily minimums a lot of places require for longer term rentals, a 6 hour logbook flight for a 4 day trip might be 12hours of rental costs to meet minimums. All of a sudden the payback for owning might be quicker. Basically, as soon as I got my certificate and started to look into planning weekend getaways, I realized that the magical 100hr benchmark doesn't mean 100hrs of flying just 100 hrs of renting. I am not sure that made any more sense or not but it was definitely something I never knew and has become a bit of an eye opener.
Love this content! I'm wrapping up training with the goal to own one day for all the reasons you described. Your honesty and realistic approach is awesome. I'll be signing up for your emails and can't wait for those new courses coming soon! Keep up the great work!!!
Looking forward to the buying process format. As someone who has wanted to buy an airplane for a while this seems to be pretty intimidating since it seems it’s pretty easy to get a lemon. I understand you want to get a prebuy but how do you find a reputable and credible individual to do this and ensure everything is thoroughly evaluated. Especially when the plane might be in a geographically different location.
Awesome content. I will probably end up owning some day but the financial isn't there for me. Also want to build more time and get instrument rated for general experience and also insurance purposes before getting there.
There are those unusual occasions when airplanes find you, rather than you going to look for them. I had no firm plans to own an airplane and had an Aeronca Champ dropped into my lap. A couple of years ago, a friend from my college days messaged me on Facebook asking if I wanted to buy an airplane. I thought she was joking, but as it turns out she was settling her dad’s estate. After hearing her asking price, I realized that I would never find another airplane at that price. After a couple of conversations with my wife (who, much to my surprise, was not opposed to the idea) and a few sleepless nights turning the idea over in my head, I found myself owning an airplane.
I’m a skeptic. I just completed my PPL and now pursuing instrument rating. I would need an accountant today to decide rental vs purchase. I will rent until I can see a ROI for purchasing. Tough decisions, but I will always support our community.
Another reason for ownership is because the local rental fleet looks like ragged out student planes that haven’t been washed in years. I want to buy a TTX so I can travel in comfort and get to the destination as fast as possible!
What about the equity you have in the plane when owning? I know it depreciates but you can sell for a good chunk and make back a lot of money you once spent.
It seems like a great way to save money until you have one bad annual. Unless you are above a specific income where you can absorb that , or superhuman discipline of tucking a significant amount of money away as a “my engine needs to be replaced” fund it’s always a bit of a risk
Great video. But I have never seen someone discuss total trip costs. Ok I fly from home base to point B. Now what happens at point B? Car rental fees. Hotel costs? When I was flying I only enjoyed so much airport food. Courtesy cars are a thing of the past. Car rentals are a challenge at best especially at small airports. So let’s see a video on after the landing.
Another dimension is what you want to fly. So maybe you're renting a 200$/wet hour proper airplane. But you'd also be satisfied with flying a 30.000-40.000$ ultralight. The balancing point might be quite different there. A C182 is a very expensive airplane, so the calculations might be entirely different.
I don't know why planes from the 50's-60's still cost $40k plus. It's 2021 and they shouldn't cost that much. Even Light Sports cost a lot for being restricted as much as they are.
I don't know what you do for a leaving, but I have been watching a lot of ownerships videos by rich doctors that can drop 3 million dollars on a jet without leasing and than show you how cool it flies at FL40. None of those matches the value of your content (I watched your other videos). Nothing wrong about being rich, but most of us are not and are thinking more around your lines. Thanks, great work.
Thank you! I did consider that, but ran into some of the same frequency/freedom issues described in renting. I really wanted the freedom to have unrestricted access to the aircraft whenever I wanted, and for whatever duration of time that I wanted. So, owning outright made more sense for me. But I don't have anything against clubs.
If youre looking at finances of the deal, it will almost never make sense to buy a plane. Aircraft ownership costs have skyrocketed over the last 10 years, while renting is about the same. If you can deduct costs as a business expense, it begins to not be stupid idea. Most people would be better off to invest in something else and use some of the profits for plane rental. If you can afford ownership and know what it' costing you, go for it.
This is a great video, thank-you so much for sharing. What about purchasing to build time, versus an hourly mid- intersection surpassing rental approach and add ratings?
Thanks! Would just need to run the math on it and see if it still makes sense financially once you add in the fixed costs of ownership (hangar, insurance, etc.). Then again, like I mentioned in the video, that freedom of owning your own plane might be so worth it to you that there doesn't need to be a financial break-even on it. It's different for everybody.
First - owning elevates your social circle substantially. Second - owning you can fly in wind conditions where an FBO would ground his rentals. Flying in marginal conditions will make you a better pilot. Third - Ownership is a much better place to blow excess cash compared with hookers, alcohol, gambling and drugs. As an owner of an aircraft you will not have cash for bad shit.
Just contact Savvey Aviation for prebuy help. They have experienced A&P IAs that will look over the log books at no cost to you prior to your decision to purchase. You can then decide if you want to make an offer or not. Their paid service will have them arrange for the prebuy inspection and review of the information by qualified professionals. They can also assist with proper wording in purchase contracts that gives you protections in the case of scams or undisclosed issues you might discover. I have had them review two aircraft I was interested in. Not only did they provide good insight but they confirmed my concerns, which gives you more confidence in your decision making.
Having bought two airplanes, I think he's given you a valuable framework to make an informed decision. What you are seeking are the numbers this framework will help you discover. Find someone you trust who has bought one or more airplanes (your CFI might be able to help you or seek out a local EAA chapter) and have them guide you through this framework. You need to share your personal financial situation with them. Use one or two of the most popular first-time airplanes that meet your needs and run the numbers. Your CFI might be able to suggest a few good airplane choices based upon your own flying abilities. Mine did. The numbers will not completely justify a decision, but they will help bring some clarity and objectivity to what really is a subjective decision. After all, few of us really NEED an airplane, but we WANT one! LOL
Cessna 182 Skylane vs Diamond DA40 NG for your first airplane?. Which one would you choose and why?. Of Course, If you haven't already purchased Cessna.
I think they can work but you really need to be sure to find the right partner that has the same outlook on maintenance as you. The concept of co-owning an airplane can sound really fun and harmonious until the checkbook becomes involved.
Charlie (and others) can you say whether you considered a da40 v the 182? Was it useful load or family passenger number that swayed you to go 182 (even if you did consider da40 in your process).
Hi Kelly - I honestly didn't consider a Diamond. I liked the useful load and short field performance of the 182, plus all of my time was in 172's, 182's, a super cub at that point so I liked the high-wing, particularly the cessna's. Didn't feel very comfortable buying a different platform at that point.
Have you ever considered renting out your plane after you buy? Or would that not be effective, cost wise? I'm thinking if I bought a plane, I would be able to meet my means financially but it would be awesome to rent it out to help pay. I would love to only make it rentable to others over the week days and I'll be taking it out on weekends, so I can keep the flexibility requirement :)
Hi Hattie - personally i wouldn't do that just because of how much other people will beat up your airplane. Many people do lease-backs, and there are flight schools and other shops all of the time that would love this arrangement, so if you're interested I don't think it would be hard to set it up. But to me it isn't worth it.
Hey guys! I wanted to let you know I just launched an "Insiders" Newsletter where once a week I'm sharing an important lesson I've learned in aviation, links to my latest content so you don't miss out, and links to any other interesting or helpful content I've found. Subscribe (it's free) at: airplaneacademy.com/insiders
All great considerations. I would add one more and that is pride of ownership. Unfortunately pilots treat rentals like rentals. Unauthorized aerobatics or an exceptionally hard landing will never get reported. I love preflighting my plane knowing who flew it last(I don’t loan it out). I would put the most important reason as maintenance. When you fly the same plane all the time, small changes in feel will be noticed early and issues can be addressed before they become a problem in flight. For the hours I fly annually, buying a plane was the dumbest financial decision I have made in my life but I don’t regret it. I just recently retired and now work part time, in the process of fixing the low hours problem.
Even after you have a problem in flight. Had an old straight tail 172, lost the tach inflight, almost a non-event since I knew the engine sounds so well. Ditto for losing airspeed indicator, feel of the control surfaces and wind noises in the cabin told me all I needed to know.
Well said, and I very much agree with this.
This is EXACTLY the video that I needed to see today. I'm considering buying a plane this year so this is helpful.
Same here
Awesome! Glad to hear it was helpful.
Did you get a plane?
Owning an airplane is like having a kid. You can run spreadsheets until you are sick of it, and its never going to make financial sense. Its more of an emotional decision.
Yep. Best comment. 👆
My wife and I were just talking about this. The dance between plane availability, your availability and weather (not to mention my CFI) is quite a bit of work. Thanks Charlie
+1 to this. Same boat.
Well, buying one would only affect airplane availability. You probably won't need a CFI by the time you purchase one. Although, I guess, some people buy an airplane first then get their license in it... Way nicer than having to always book whatever beaten Skyhawk is available at the school on any given day!
Great video. Two more benefits of ownership. 1) Safety . I think it is safer to consistently fly the same plane. The systems procedures, layouts, sounds, feel, speeds, stay the same. 2) Peace of mind. You become responsible for getting maintenance done so you can decide what gets done and when. If, like me you don’t put off maintenance, you might feel better than if you don’t know what the rental company does.
Couldn't agree more! Thanks for adding this perspective.
Another point in favor of ownership is that it is potentially safer. You control the maintenance and, you know all the quirks of your own plane.
This is the part that is really important to me.
Agree, good analysis. The freedom and spontaneity has a value you can't put a $ value on.
This video was very helpful. I think I’m finally at that inflection point where I need to really think about buying my own airplane. What’s really pushing a decision as well, is the shrinking availability of rental aircraft. Many of the Flight schools in my area, in the north east region, are going to an ATP like model. So what that means is they bought a fleet of brand new piper 181, that they use for accelerated Flight School programs, but they don’t allow people with licenses to rent them. Because of that, availability is even lower than it was some years ago. So, I’m looking! Thank you for these videos, they’ve been very helpful.
I feel you. I did a whole webinar (it wasn't live, but it was the length and style of a webinar) on buying an airplane in case it helps: ruclips.net/video/oIgX89kf6r4/видео.html
Charlie, when I think you can’t make a better video than previous ones, you create one that absolutely surpasses them. Although this video is only ~11 minutes, you cover so many topics with a surface-level introduction that delivers solid reasons to understand my own objectives in aviation. Additionally, tying topic points to past videos makes this video even more valuable as a learning tool.
I am very much looking to the upcoming video.
Now, I just have to brush up on my Excel skills to make a nice break even graph as I develop my aviation plan.
Thanks Eric, that was really nice of you to say. I'm really glad you found it useful! Excited for you to pursue aircraft ownership, it's an awesome journey.
Perfect picture of the process Charlie. Great job.
Thanks so much!
Good things to think about, and thanks for the video and information. Years ago the cost of annuals, regular maintenance, hanger, fuel etc..etc. etc.. was manageable. Even training and getting PP licenses and ratings were reasonable. However, today the costs are ridiculous, add to that the initial output cost to purchase your own aircraft might be out of reach for your 100 hour-a-year G/A fly for fun pilot. I see a lot of pilots go in for 'shared ownership', or use the aircraft as a business write down.
This is honestly the best aviation channel on RUclips!
Wow! Thanks so much. Really appreciate that.
A plane that suits your location is important too, if you need to rent tie-down/hanger in the next town over vs getting a STOL experimental that can use the neighbor's pasture.
(But then if it is classified 103 rather than experimental [23] many busy airports will be off limits, even if you the PIC are a fully current, instrument rated, certified pilot.)
Great information, as I decide whether I want to pursue my PPL.
Under freedom you can consider if the FBO or rental owner will allow for grass strips or back country. There were two locations to rent in our community and both had so many restrictions, and they didn't allow landing on those types of strips. Living in MT, it's nice to get to some of the back country strips, and the rental plane didn't allow for that.
This is a great channel. Thank you I am just starting off here in California and Texas. I am just starting the school and this has been incredibly helpful and informative.
Awesome, you've got this!!
I just bought a 182Q... your videos helped me decide what to do. You can't put everything on just the financials. The convenience factor was a major part of the decision for me.
Awesome! The 182 is a fantastic all-around machine.
I sold my plane a few years ago, anticipating renting. Such a pain to rent, for me. When I owned, I traveled from west to east coast and back. Across water to Catalina Island. That all stopped.
Great job in presenting the missus the numbers regarding owning a plane vs renting just by upping the hours a month to justify it. 😊👍🏼
Great video! You covered all the bases, and provide additional links for more detail. Very relatable. 100% agree that it isn't good for a plane to only be flown a couple of hours a month, contrasted with freedom to fly having value. Looking forward to the step by step process, although I think I'll stay renting for now.
Thanks so much! I'm glad you found it helpful and enjoyable. :)
I absolutely get a ton out of your channel. You are definitely a go to!
Wow! This means a lot to me. So glad to hear!
I went the club route. We all have a share we purchase and can sell . We share the cost.Fortunately I have not run into a time we didn’t have at least one of the aircraft available.
Charlie, one excellent video guy. You really break down all the most important points of ownership. For me, I just want to fly whenever I can and owning my own would enable me to do that. Renting is ok, but me personally, I like knowing what I have when I get in the left seat. Had a nice C150L, sold it just because I thought it was the right time----I regret it now!! Looking for a decent C172, but wow, they are very proud of them. It's just a sellers market now, just may have to wait a bit longer. Thanks again from Deep Down in Cajun Country--KOPL.
Thanks Randall! Glad you enjoyed it. The good thing about 172's is that there are so many of them that eventually you will be able to find the right one for sure. Hang in there! Would be a great plane to own.
So, if I only want to come down for fuel, food, changing out passengers and restroom breaks I should consider buying at least one plane :+). Awesome video!!! Thank you!!!!!!!
Hi Charlie. Such a good topic to discuss. An additional piece that would be interesting to hear you speak about is partial ownership. Sharing the cost with another person or more.
Thanks and good point. I Have not done it personally but known those that have, so could probably offer up a few points.
That was a big factor to me, that renting effectively precludes long trips. The guys renting the aircraft are not going to want you to take an aircraft for multiple days while flying that aircraft only a few hours per day.
Yup. I'm also reluctant to take a rental on a longer trip 'cause I have that much less trust in it.
Most rental aircraft I've seen are in a condition which I'd consider barely flightworthy. Let along adequate for a longer trip.
Owning an airplane and knowing that noone beat on it since you (or your trusted mechanic) have done your maintenance on it and fixed the issues - there's some value in that. Even if the cost per hour ends up being higher than that of a rental
@@suzukirider9030 ok
@@suzukirider9030 ppl
Excellent video. I’m strongly considering buying my own airplane this year to build time towards a pilot career, and for all reasons described in the video. I also work as an A&P mechanic on piston singles, so my intention would be to do all of my own maintenance and annuals to save on labor costs.
That's awesome if you can do all of that yourself! That would help the financial model in a big way, too.
Thanks for laying it out crystal clear 🍻
Great breakdown Charlie (as usual). This will be so helpful for many people, takes some of the emotion out of the decision and inserts logic and a clear process/breakdown to follow.
Thanks so much! Really appreciate the feedback and glad to hear it will be helpful!
Awesome information!! Will be looking forward to the next video on how to purchased a plane. Looking to get one soon!! Thank You for all the info...
The big thing that's keeping me from renting and pushing me toward buying is all of the stupid "no soft/short/rough fields" clauses in rental agreements. I want to fly in the back-country of Idaho. I want to land on my friends grass strip at his house. A lot of the rental agreements are understandable, but c'mon man. Lemme land in places that are challenging.
Another great video Charlie, excellent production, and concise and to point content! I love how you keep your videos
Thanks a bunch, I really appreciate that feedback and am glad you found it useful! I agree with the other points you made here 100%.
Seems most people find the bubble between 80-100 hours a year. E.g. under 80 definitely not, over 100 definitely yes, but in between...hard decision. :)
Bought a year 2000 182S best decision !!!! Love the plane
Im excited for this series... Thanks for taking time to share wisdom
I'm so glad! :
Loved the pass by the Wasatch Front! I grew up in the shadow of Timpanogos, so that caught my eye :P Timp, Pleasant Grove G, Point of the Mountain, Mount Olympus :D
Mate, great content , well delivered. Thank you
Thanks so much! Really appreciate it.
2500hr ppl here. The biggest problem today is even with $2500 you’re spending about $1600 per $40,000 insured a year on insurance on experimental. Luckily i land on my on hay field I don’t have to pay those high dollar hanger rents. But then the insurance company tells me that landing off airport brings the cost up due to not having fire and rescue. Heck unless you’re at a class D or above you’re not getting fire and rescue anyway.
Hell in today’s times, buying and owning the plane is almost the cheapest part of ownership, the insurance, and hanger rent. Good friend of mine has an RV 7 in Huntsville Texas for a private hanger is right at $500 a month and his insurance runs about $350 a month. I personally know he paid cash for the plane and it still cost him $850 a month in fees just to own it.
Great video Bobby just be sure and touch on the after cost of purchasing your own plane. Insurance, hanger rent, putting money back for engine overhauls, equipment failures, and the list goes on and on.
Get your hay field listed as a private airport on the sectional. That's about all most of them are around here, hard to spot them even with a map on a clear day.
Hangar is the most misspelled word in aviation.
Hi Gary - I definitely agree that there are lots of follow on costs that go into ownership. My other video that I link to towards the end covers those. Hangars have gotten really expensive but I am not paying as much in insurance as you listed here. Mine has been about $800-1k per year for $100k in hull value.
I really like the way you broke this out. I am still undecided.
Perfect timing. I need all of this info! Thanks, NEW SUB
Glad it was helpful! Excited to have you as a subscriber! Thank you!
If you are spending $2000 per month in rentals (about 100hr/yr) then you can definitely budget ownership in the $40k to $60K aircraft range....with a partner it's even easier... but get a pre-buy, you don't want surprises.
55 hours and 6 months into training... Although attainable, I've gone from wanting a fast traveling Mooney, to a basic IFR trainer, to just being content with renting for now. Realistically, I'm not ready to take on the extra time, responsibility and financial burden of owning. I don't think students really know what their missions will be. I'll just stick to making those rental hours count. One day though.
Chris - I think this is so good to be introspective like this. Sounds like you have a good handle on your mission right now and what you're looking for.
As a few other people pointed out - owning an aircraft brings the peace of mind that you know it's condition, and any issues with it - that much more than any rental - which could develop any problems and you'd be the last to know it.
Fantastic! Just what I needed to here
Glad you enjoyed the video and that it was helpful!
Rented for decades before buying my plane. Sold it 2yrs ago to support one of my kids' careers. Feeling miserable without it so I'm back in the market to buy one. Prices are crazy now.
Great video. This breaks it down nicely. We have a plane available for our employees to use, so they can build flight time and make flying more available and affordable!
Great video, well laid out and helpful
Thank you! So glad it was helpful and that you enjoyed it.
Break even for me was 25-50hrs/year for a C150. 50hrs/yr when I included the monthly loan payment, 25hrs/yr once paid off. Complete lack of flexibility in renting for me, which further reduced the hours I flew each year had I had the access to an airplane.
Great info!! Thanks
Sure thing! Glad you find it helpful!
Yes! Help set up a side hustle so that I can afford to own!
Charlie, as always, great video!
After just receiving my Private certificate, the local single seat C152 is great for building hours and a no brainer on renting over buying. But looking ahead and eventually wanting to be able to do weekend or short week trips that story changes drastically. There are not a whole lot of spread sheets out there that are factoring the type of flying you are doing. 60 hours a year is one thing for day sight seeing trips, but if you do 5 weekend adventures of 6hrs of flying that 60 hours of flight might look a lot closer to 100 hours a year cost wise. I will say as someone just getting into this and looking forward to actually going places outside of my local practice area, this subject isnt talked about too often. $600 worth of flight time for a weekend trip (yes, i am fortunate enough to have a place with low rental rates still) could easily look more like a $1200 rental. That is going to take a LOT of convincing for the wife! But might make owning more reasonable with less hours flown a year.
Hi Bradley - just so I understand, are you saying that to flying 60 hours a year if you own the airplane costs the same as 100 hours per year renting because of the fixed costs involved? If so, yeah that's what i was trying to kind of touch on in the video here that sometimes the freedom is worth more to you than the financial break even, so that owning to fly 60 hours a year is still more worth it to you even though it costs more than renting. On the other hand, you might find that it really isn't worth owning until you can do 100 hours per year so that owning is actually cheaper than renting. It will be unique for everyone. My view was that as long as I could get it somewhat close, it was way more worth it to own vs. rent.
@@AirplaneAcademy I was trying to say the opposite actually. When you factor in daily minimums a lot of places require for longer term rentals, a 6 hour logbook flight for a 4 day trip might be 12hours of rental costs to meet minimums. All of a sudden the payback for owning might be quicker. Basically, as soon as I got my certificate and started to look into planning weekend getaways, I realized that the magical 100hr benchmark doesn't mean 100hrs of flying just 100 hrs of renting. I am not sure that made any more sense or not but it was definitely something I never knew and has become a bit of an eye opener.
Another great video, thanks!
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed. :)
Love this content! I'm wrapping up training with the goal to own one day for all the reasons you described. Your honesty and realistic approach is awesome. I'll be signing up for your emails and can't wait for those new courses coming soon! Keep up the great work!!!
Thanks a bunch, Bill. Glad you enjoyed it and found it useful!
Looking forward to the buying process format. As someone who has wanted to buy an airplane for a while this seems to be pretty intimidating since it seems it’s pretty easy to get a lemon. I understand you want to get a prebuy but how do you find a reputable and credible individual to do this and ensure everything is thoroughly evaluated. Especially when the plane might be in a geographically different location.
Completely agree. It can be an intimidating process and there is a lot on the line. More info to come here!
I've already put the hammer down on wanting to buy my own plane, i'm looking in the 150/152 market hoping for some golden deal 172/182 opportunities
Something I thought of is that I won't be nearly as rough on a plane as a flight school will. Training is super rough on an engine
I love your thought process my first goal is to finish my PPL hopefully in 2021
Fantastic! It's so worth it. Keep it up!
Awesome content. I will probably end up owning some day but the financial isn't there for me. Also want to build more time and get instrument rated for general experience and also insurance purposes before getting there.
Really looking forward to your coarse on how you make passive income to fund your flying! Great video
Awesome! It's ready to view!
courses.airplaneacademy.com/
Could you give us the particulars on your plane - year, cost, additions, upgrades, etc.
There are those unusual occasions when airplanes find you, rather than you going to look for them. I had no firm plans to own an airplane and had an Aeronca Champ dropped into my lap. A couple of years ago, a friend from my college days messaged me on Facebook asking if I wanted to buy an airplane. I thought she was joking, but as it turns out she was settling her dad’s estate. After hearing her asking price, I realized that I would never find another airplane at that price. After a couple of conversations with my wife (who, much to my surprise, was not opposed to the idea) and a few sleepless nights turning the idea over in my head, I found myself owning an airplane.
So awesome! What a fun airplane to own, too.
I’m looking for a back country access machine. Skis. Bloody moose parts. That’s why I want one.
Homebuilts are a great solution and partnership with 3-4 people on a certified airplane.
I’m a skeptic. I just completed my PPL and now pursuing instrument rating. I would need an accountant today to decide rental vs purchase. I will rent until I can see a ROI for purchasing. Tough decisions, but I will always support our community.
Did you ever end up buying one?
Great video, thanks
Sure thing! Glad you enjoyed.
Great video!
Thank you!
Another reason for ownership is because the local rental fleet looks like ragged out student planes that haven’t been washed in years. I want to buy a TTX so I can travel in comfort and get to the destination as fast as possible!
this is a great video that I will revisit in another 20 years. lol
If annual inspection costs are keeping anyone away from buying, don't forget to look into Experimentals...
Don't forget the most cool part, the flex.
What about the equity you have in the plane when owning? I know it depreciates but you can sell for a good chunk and make back a lot of money you once spent.
The way I think about it I take some from my vacationing budget, or hobby and put it towards the Aircraft. And then it makes better sense to me.
It seems like a great way to save money until you have one bad annual. Unless you are above a specific income where you can absorb that , or superhuman discipline of tucking a significant amount of money away as a “my engine needs to be replaced” fund it’s always a bit of a risk
Great video. But I have never seen someone discuss total trip costs. Ok I fly from home base to point B. Now what happens at point B? Car rental fees. Hotel costs? When I was flying I only enjoyed so much airport food. Courtesy cars are a thing of the past. Car rentals are a challenge at best especially at small airports. So let’s see a video on after the landing.
I fall in the category of buying. I don't have the freedom of landing on gravel and that limits the places I can go here in Alaska.
Another dimension is what you want to fly. So maybe you're renting a 200$/wet hour proper airplane. But you'd also be satisfied with flying a 30.000-40.000$ ultralight. The balancing point might be quite different there. A C182 is a very expensive airplane, so the calculations might be entirely different.
I don't know why planes from the 50's-60's still cost $40k plus. It's 2021 and they shouldn't cost that much. Even Light Sports cost a lot for being restricted as much as they are.
I don't know what you do for a leaving, but I have been watching a lot of ownerships videos by rich doctors that can drop 3 million dollars on a jet without leasing and than show you how cool it flies at FL40. None of those matches the value of your content (I watched your other videos). Nothing wrong about being rich, but most of us are not and are thinking more around your lines. Thanks, great work.
Thanks so much! Really appreciate the feedback and glad you enjoy the videos.
Charlie, great video's, very informative, did you consider getting into a flying club versus buying, what's your take on this option? Thanks
Thank you! I did consider that, but ran into some of the same frequency/freedom issues described in renting. I really wanted the freedom to have unrestricted access to the aircraft whenever I wanted, and for whatever duration of time that I wanted. So, owning outright made more sense for me. But I don't have anything against clubs.
I can’t afford to rent, buy or even purchase a ticket to ride so I don’t know why I am watching but it was an interesting video.
now that you own that airplane, can you make money from that ownership or is the bureaucracy too complicated?
Spend less than you make? Live within your means? That's CRAZY talk! Lol #financialpeace
Hey where did you end up finding your plane when you bought it?
If youre looking at finances of the deal, it will almost never make sense to buy a plane. Aircraft ownership costs have skyrocketed over the last 10 years, while renting is about the same. If you can deduct costs as a business expense, it begins to not be stupid idea. Most people would be better off to invest in something else and use some of the profits for plane rental. If you can afford ownership and know what it' costing you, go for it.
Great info...thanks for sharing!!
Sure thing! Glad you enjoyed.
Great cap of the US Open at Torrey Pines!
This is a great video, thank-you so much for sharing. What about purchasing to build time, versus an hourly mid- intersection surpassing rental approach and add ratings?
Thanks! Would just need to run the math on it and see if it still makes sense financially once you add in the fixed costs of ownership (hangar, insurance, etc.). Then again, like I mentioned in the video, that freedom of owning your own plane might be so worth it to you that there doesn't need to be a financial break-even on it. It's different for everybody.
Here in austria a c182 costs 330usd/h wet😅
First - owning elevates your social circle substantially.
Second - owning you can fly in wind conditions where an FBO would ground his rentals. Flying in marginal conditions will make you a better pilot.
Third - Ownership is a much better place to blow excess cash compared with hookers, alcohol, gambling and drugs. As an owner of an aircraft you will not have cash for bad shit.
I want to buy a airplane to build hours, do you know anyone selling one? i have my PPl and working towards a CPl.
What model 182 do you have? I have been looking for a “p” or “q” myself?
1975 182P!
What is the name or names of the ground school that you mentioned, kings, or King something, that was a 3 day classroom.
King Schools (online) and then American Flyers (in person 3-day).
@@AirplaneAcademy I appreciate you and your channel, thanks for your help!
Just contact Savvey Aviation for prebuy help. They have experienced A&P IAs that will look over the log books at no cost to you prior to your decision to purchase. You can then decide if you want to make an offer or not. Their paid service will have them arrange for the prebuy inspection and review of the information by qualified professionals. They can also assist with proper wording in purchase contracts that gives you protections in the case of scams or undisclosed issues you might discover. I have had them review two aircraft I was interested in. Not only did they provide good insight but they confirmed my concerns, which gives you more confidence in your decision making.
I'm missing the informational value of this video.
Having bought two airplanes, I think he's given you a valuable framework to make an informed decision. What you are seeking are the numbers this framework will help you discover. Find someone you trust who has bought one or more airplanes (your CFI might be able to help you or seek out a local EAA chapter) and have them guide you through this framework. You need to share your personal financial situation with them. Use one or two of the most popular first-time airplanes that meet your needs and run the numbers. Your CFI might be able to suggest a few good airplane choices based upon your own flying abilities. Mine did. The numbers will not completely justify a decision, but they will help bring some clarity and objectivity to what really is a subjective decision. After all, few of us really NEED an airplane, but we WANT one! LOL
Cessna 182 Skylane vs Diamond DA40 NG for your first airplane?.
Which one would you choose and why?.
Of Course, If you haven't already purchased Cessna.
Hello ,
Thanks for uploading this video. It helps me to make a decision to buy a Cessna 172 or 182. How much your purchase price? Thanks.
What about partnerships?
I think they can work but you really need to be sure to find the right partner that has the same outlook on maintenance as you. The concept of co-owning an airplane can sound really fun and harmonious until the checkbook becomes involved.
Charlie (and others) can you say whether you considered a da40 v the 182? Was it useful load or family passenger number that swayed you to go 182 (even if you did consider da40 in your process).
Hi Kelly - I honestly didn't consider a Diamond. I liked the useful load and short field performance of the 182, plus all of my time was in 172's, 182's, a super cub at that point so I liked the high-wing, particularly the cessna's. Didn't feel very comfortable buying a different platform at that point.
Have you ever considered renting out your plane after you buy? Or would that not be effective, cost wise? I'm thinking if I bought a plane, I would be able to meet my means financially but it would be awesome to rent it out to help pay. I would love to only make it rentable to others over the week days and I'll be taking it out on weekends, so I can keep the flexibility requirement :)
Be aware that insurance and risks look a lot different for a leaseback arrangement.
Hi Hattie - personally i wouldn't do that just because of how much other people will beat up your airplane. Many people do lease-backs, and there are flight schools and other shops all of the time that would love this arrangement, so if you're interested I don't think it would be hard to set it up. But to me it isn't worth it.