Quote:
Originally Posted by afterburn 549
JI just want to make the right choice the 1st time..
Some of these have know problems and AD list a mile long.....i have no clue.
So some advice from the "knowing" here would be good.
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This is a very interesting topic, one I have researched extensively. Before I explain my reasoning, ley me say that I would own an airplane today if my neighbor didn't - meaning I get to go fly in HIS plane for the price of gas, without any of the burden of plane ownership.
He owns a Super Cub.
You really have to ask yourself a few questions in order to solve the problem you are facing. Those questions will help you decide on what priorities, in order, are important in the aircraft. It is going to be your aircraft after all. This is my list and of course reflects my priorities:
My number 1 priority was the aircraft had to have a "stick". I have a fairly significant amount of flight time and 95% of it is in aircraft with a control stick. I prefer it.
Second was gentleman's aerobatics. I wanted a plane that I could put the world in different perspectives...nothing serious, no nine G pulls, just smooth upside down therapy.
Reasonable cruise speed. I define reasonable cruise as 120kts indicated.
Low wing and tandem seating. I wasn't planning on flying the family and I like the panorama when solo'ing.
Those were my must have's and trust me, there are very few choices. If I was to do this (and I was very serious about it: went to factories, EAA in Oshkosh a few times, helped build two airplanes, etc) it was apparent that Van's RV 8 was my plane.
https://www.vansaircraft.com/public/rv8.htm
I spent time in Redmond, few it a few times and was hooked. I simply had to be honest with myself and recognize there just wasn't enough hours in the day to fit in the requirements to fly safely with safe airplane.
That is why I fly with my neighbor off of his grass strip. Sorry for the ramble but I really believe that you have to approach aircraft ownership methodically. The right answer may not be the one you expected or want.
