The problem, glhcarl, as I understand it is that the present owners have a totally unrealistic expectation as to the the monetary value of the airplanes.
They were originally offered at 'round about $4.17million apiece, but even then, five years ago, they were overpriced.
I understand the 'new' price is in the region of $2.2million, but even there, still overpriced.
We negotiated with one owner for a -250 elsewhere, but the asking price was just a tad too high...and they want us to pay for the needed C check.
Just ain't gonna happen.
These folks are getting quite anxious now, so we'll see.
Meanwhile we have managed to find another that is suitable, and is in check, with a spares package and ready to be put to work.
We will move forward with this shortly, I believe, unless something better comes along.
The TriStar today is still a good niche airplane, even with the higher fuel costs, so long as the utilisation is not excessively high, in selected markets, especially if belly cargo space is needed, which we do.
The 'ole Lockheed three-holer has proven to be quite reliable, provided it is operated and maintained by folks that give it proper care and attention.
Last edited by 411A; 17th May 2007 at 06:52.