Page 41 - June 2015 Volume 19 Number 6

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where it is difficult to obtain higher fuel-efficient altitudes, maybe not. And, after a thorough analysis of all the variables and emotions, you may decide to stay with the ride you have. Regardless, the process of looking is really fun. Fly Safe. I
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saying? What are the knowledgeable aviation writers saying in their pilot reports?
Insurance And Training
Get quotes before you buy the airplane. How much, if any, mentoring will be required? It could be 50 hours or more. Regardless, use an experienced mentor, even if not required. If it’s your first jet, is the model you are looking at too big a leap?
One Pilot Or Two?
Two thirds of my jet time has been logged in jets requiring a crew. And while it is really cool to be the only pilot in command, having a second qualified pilot to handle some of the load can be desirable. A jet full of 8 passengers can become a handful if all of them want to ask you a question as you approach minimums. Some older jets require two pilots and are sometimes overlooked due to perceived additional operating costs. More on this in a later article.
Owner Ego
What image are you trying to convey with your new bird? If it’s “I have arrived,” a big cabin door and high ramp stance may be important. If you are more humble, the fact that it IS a jet may be just fine. By all means, get your spouse or significant other involved in the comparison and demo process. They will see things you don’t.
Social Aspects
Owner pilot groups have “taken off” in the last five years. They offer regional and national meetings in exciting locales where pilot education is combined with great entertainment for both the pilot and spouse. Virtually all of them have their own dedicated websites, full of great operational information about your favorite jet.
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Does It Have To Be A Jet?
There is no getting around the fact that a jet is just plain awesome to own and fly. But, do you really need it? If you have stage lengths of 300 miles or less, probably not. If most of your flying is done in the Northeast
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JUNE 2015
TWIN & TURBINE • 39