DEFINE THE MISSION

As we approach one year after my purchase of the Baron, I reflect with interest upon the fateful decision to buy a flying machine. Why own when you can rent? Quite simply, the mission determines the choice of aircraft. Eventually, my mission could no longer be met by the rental fleet. To meet the demand for a bigger, faster aircraft, I looked at the flying club. I was deterred by the club training and scheduling requirements. I looked for but could not find a nearby fractional ownership. Fractional or club ownership wound be reasonable options for some pilots. I had checked all the boxes though for owner operator pilot. I had flown for work, pleasure, and self-actualization for nearly 15 years. I had the flying disease after all, flying more than 100 hours per year. I was to be a third-generation owner, operator pilot. I did not take on the responsibility lightly, and I wanted to share the Wright Brother’s dream of flight with my family for years to come.

A lot of time and effort went into researching and finding the right aircraft for my needs. It's important to carefully consider all the options and to seek expert advice before making such a big investment. I would encourage anyone to consult with mechanics, read logbooks, and speak with other owners to find a high-quality aircraft that would be safe and reliable. It's important to reach out to aircraft societies and find a community of like-minded individuals who could offer guidance and support. All of these steps allowed me to take responsibility of aircraft ownership seriously and make an informed decision.