tobnpr
New Member
I think we've discussed some aspects of this before; I'm trying to decide whether to move forward with learning to fly.
Part one: Economics. Trying to make a rough determination of what this hobby costs...Boats I know, planes NADA. If I do it, I'm going to do it fairly frequently; as pilots I've spoken with say it's important to use/practice the skills frequently.
Part 1 (B): Own the aircraft... hey I know they easily run well into seven figures, but can a 4-seater (USED, of course) be had for under 200K? What would be a reasonable figure to expect to spend on annual maintenance, and required inspections?
Part 1 (C): Rent the aircraft... how much for a day of joyriding- say a daytrip from Tampa to Key West for a cold one at Sloppy Joes...
Part Two: Learning to fly. How much of this can be done, at home, via simulators? I've heard some sophisticated systems (hardware and software) are available for purchase to plug into the big screen at home. Santa may spring for this... is it a viable idea? Any suggestions on a system to look at? Cost?
Sorry about the lengthy post, just trying to get a handle on this...there's an airport community nearby and every time I drive by I can't help but notice how cool it would be to have a plane (or two) in your driveway...
Any sage advice is appreciated.
Part one: Economics. Trying to make a rough determination of what this hobby costs...Boats I know, planes NADA. If I do it, I'm going to do it fairly frequently; as pilots I've spoken with say it's important to use/practice the skills frequently.
Part 1 (B): Own the aircraft... hey I know they easily run well into seven figures, but can a 4-seater (USED, of course) be had for under 200K? What would be a reasonable figure to expect to spend on annual maintenance, and required inspections?
Part 1 (C): Rent the aircraft... how much for a day of joyriding- say a daytrip from Tampa to Key West for a cold one at Sloppy Joes...
Part Two: Learning to fly. How much of this can be done, at home, via simulators? I've heard some sophisticated systems (hardware and software) are available for purchase to plug into the big screen at home. Santa may spring for this... is it a viable idea? Any suggestions on a system to look at? Cost?
Sorry about the lengthy post, just trying to get a handle on this...there's an airport community nearby and every time I drive by I can't help but notice how cool it would be to have a plane (or two) in your driveway...
Any sage advice is appreciated.