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different models out there. Carefully think about how you would operate the aircraft. How far is your typical trip? How many people would you typically need to take along? What about the same questions in rare circumstances?
Have someone prepare a budget outlining the operating costs for the models you are considering. Remember, the purchase price is only the tip of the iceberg. And some
models, like the Beech Baron, have a pressurized version as well as a non-pressurized. And sometimes, the pressurized one is even cheaper to buy than a comparable straight one. For trips with only a couple passengers, the P-Baron can be real bargain. It costs less to buy than a standard Baron, burns only an additional two gallons per hour a side, but can cruise at speeds of 210 knots or more, 30 knots faster than a straight Baron. Not to mention the
P-Baron usually has air conditioning that most of the older 58s will not have and the tighter cabin makes the plane quieter and warmer in the winter. And the turbochargers make high-and-hot takeoffs easier or even possible.
Once you have narrowed your search to a couple different models, talk to someone knowledgeable regarding the maintenance issues and factory support for those models. Talk about existing ADs and anything possibly on the horizon. Parts availability, training and additional service requirements need to be planned for to avoid any surprises later.
And finally, get quotes from several insurance companies. Talk to an agent who specializes in aircraft insurance. Usually your “local” agent will come up with a price, but will usually not be the best one out there. There are a limited number of aviation insurance companies and an agent can request quotes from each of them. Rates can vary widely depending on the experience and training of the pilot, the hull value placed on the airframe and liability limits of the policy.
After you’ve done your homework and picked out your new baby, get out there and help the economy, one airplane at a time. And, just because we don’t fly a b•rand new jet, doesn’t mean we’re not a huge part of business aviation. T&T
Chuck Blackaby is president of Endeavor Aircraft, Inc. of Alpena, Mich., an aircraft service company specializing in aircraft sales, custom paint and interior refurbishments. A commercial, single and multi- engine and instrument rated pilot, Chuck has been flying since 1974 and has 4,500 hours in 28 different aircraft types. You can reach him at (989) 464-6991 or by e-mail at chuck@endeavoraircraft.com.
44 • TWIN & TURBINE
SEPTEMBER 2011