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AOPA
https://www.aopa.com/
The airframe was manufactured from 2006 to 2017, with approximate- ly 470 units still flying. Textron Avia- tion provides excellent support 24/7 through their “Team Mustang” group of experts. When I purchased #008, I was one of the first operators. I called their 800 number night and day with a host of stupid questions.
Safety & Insurance
After almost 1 million flight hours, the Mustang has an enviable record. As of January 2023, only two fatal accidents worldwide and none in the United States. The integrated avion- ics, slow approach speeds and excel- lent training platforms have made a real difference in the safety record.
Most underwriters like the “risk” associated with the Mustang. If you combine a thorough training program with FOQA (Flight Operational Qual- ity Assurance) monitoring programs, and a well-written insurance appli- cation, reasonably priced coverage can be obtained. In addition, safety awards like the Citation Jet Pilots’ “Gold Standard” program make a dif- ference in the underwriting process.
Training
There are undoubtedly many new terms and procedures to learn if the Mustang is your first jet, but the air- plane is the perfect transition plat- form. It is the easiest to fly of any airplane I have flown, from 172’s to the Falcon 50.
I am a firm believer in full motion simulator training. Both SIMCOM and FlightSafety offer complete programs. I train at least twice per year for three days at FlightSafety in Wichita. There are also some fine in-airplane in- structors for those who like to com- bine their training. However, for a first type rating, I recommend a full two-week simulator-based course.
Owner Organization
Citation Jet Pilot’s Owner Pilot Association (CJP) has a wealth of information on the airplane, includ- ing costs of operation and immense safety resources. The organization is leading in the industry with its “Safe To Land” initiative, featuring
the most extensive video library for single pilot jet owners. Of note is their “What Good Looks Like” series, with over 30 videos. You can watch amateurs like me struggle with the simplest procedures, then watch a real professional show you how it’s done. CJP’s website is the best “go-to” for everything Mustang (citationjet- pilots.com).
Value
The Mustang experienced the post- COVID price craziness just like most aircraft. What were excellent sub $2 million-dollar airplanes quickly be- came hundreds of thousands more. That phenomenon is subsiding, and the market is becoming softer. The most sought-after models are those on “programs” with NXi avionics and factory maintenance.
Since many of the Mustangs are now over 10 years old, Textron and others have developed complete makeover programs, replacing the en- tire interior, repainting the airplane and upgrading the Garmin suite with the latest avionics mentioned above. The results are striking and hard to tell from brand new. It’s a significant investment but timely with today’s market values. Also, when you find the right airplane, hiring a “pre-buy” specialist is a must and has saved me money more than once.
Pilots often love to go faster and further. For those Textron Aviation has numerous offerings. But for the best bang for the buck, the Mustang is really hard to beat. Its simple sys- tems, avionics integration and cost of operation make it the first choice for many first jet owners. And many of them never look elsewhere.
David Miller has owned and flown a variety of aircraft from light twins to midsize jets for more than 50 years. With 6,000 plus hours in his logbook, David is the Director of Programs and Safety Education for the Citation Jet Pi- lot’s Safety Foundation. You can contact David at davidmiller1@ sbcglobal.net.
March 2023 / TWIN & TURBINE • 13