[pwd72s]

Originally Posted by rattlsnak

this is from aerocontroller:
WHICH AIRPLANE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
One of the toughest decisions will be to honestly explore what your airplane will be used for. Many of us do a lot more $100 hamburger runs than serious “business” travel. Do you have a vacation home or other frequent destination? Who and what do you normally take with you on a trip? How important is speed? Do you need to fly in weather? Your logbook is a great place to start. Once you have a good grasp on the mission, it will be easier to choose the right airplane.


Unless you are extremely fortunate, price will be a factor. While the purchase price may seem to be a large number, other costs can end up being more important. That’s why knowing your total cost of ownership is so important. For example, older light twins can often be purchased for less than a newer single, but the higher cost of training, insurance, fuel and maintenance can quickly eat up any savings in purchase price.

You should also have a serious discussion about your skills and experience with your instructor before purchasing any airplane. You should also talk with an insurer early on to see what requirements or additional training they have before writing you a policy. The most important aspect of safety is the pilot, but the planes do make a difference. Ease of use, dependability, safety features and crash worthiness vary from model to model. You should consider the safety features and records of the models you are comparing.

Desirability is a final consideration. Owning an airplane is often the fulfillment of a dream. You want to buy an airplane that you are proud to own. Don't get so caught up in all the numbers that you buy a plane that lacks appeal. Remember, the most expensive airplane is one that sits in the hangar unused.

All great advice, methinks. Jimbo, my buddy in the RV7a pictured, USES his. Retired USAF (F-111) and American (737's mostly) pilot, he has homes in both Reno and Yuma. He commutes between the two, sort of an airborne snowbird.