Groups: Be very Careful
Just because you've got an itch, try to refrain from scratching it as long as possible. I know you'll HAVE to scratch it in the end, but by that time you'll be in a better position to make an informed decision.
Find out all you can about all of the group members, what their role is within the group, what the legal structure of the group is etc.
How they react to detailed questions will give a good indicator as to whether you will WANT to join that group.
It's important that there is some form of common communication between the members, (a common email address such as can be established through Yahoo groups for example), and active participation by individual members in all of the decision making processes.
Beware "passive" group members. They can cause problems if their opinion/input becomes a necessity and they're nowhere to be found.
Only once you're satisfied with the people in the group should you start to take a look at the aeroplane.
At this stage you should employ an independent engineer to examine the aircraft, NOT the engineer who usually does the maintenance, but certainly one who is familiar with the type.
He may well find things that the existing engineer has overlooked. At this point the group will either welcome the fresh input or get the hump because you're meddling with their cosy world.
This will greatly assist you in making your final decision!
Bon Chance!!
Last edited by stickandrudderman; 8th Dec 2006 at 13:41.