Thank you all for the discussion so far. I know it is not a simple question and didn't mean to get to the really complicated stuff but you have already answered many of my questions. I have found it interesting how the avionics packages have been a major cost on many new aircraft, not just the plastic ones. Glass cockpits are brilliant and when they become more prevalent will hopefully lead to more shops becoming capable of repairing them but I am also a mechanic and agree how it can be easier to swap out the older style instruments for repairs, particulary when flying in some of Australia's outback areas.
Again, speaking as a mechanic, I am used to being able to turn around the scheduled maintenance of smaller Cessna's and Pipers pretty quick, I just haven't touched many plastic aircraft yet and have heard a few nasty stories. The unscheduled side is always unknown whether its plastic or metal but as mentioned in several posts the detection of problems can be very different.
Looking forward to hearing more,
Thanks.
