An interesting thread.....raising similar points to the "fantastic plastic" one a couple of days ago, which centred around elderly thirsty "spamcans" vs frugal Rotax lightweights.
As far as PPL/NPPL training is concered, its really about economics for most mere mortals. Faced with choice of AT-3 at £113 or PA28 at £129, the decision is obvious???? This assumes however that the AT-3 does not suffer (or will not suffer) from weather/crosswind/servicability downtime issues as compared to PA28/152 etc. If this does indeed become the case then continuity problems & assocated revision extra hours could erode this cost advantage.
On licence award - the AT-3 is surely a good enough VFR bimbler/tourer? If you want to carry more than one pax and or luggage, then convert to a 4 seater - simple?
Will the AT-3 class of aircaft stand up to the rigours of countless student landings, month after month......only time will tell?
Under new EASA regs, when will we see a NEW TECHNOLOGY 4 or even 3 seat a/c consuming less than 20 ltrs/hr at 100Kts
Standby to be informed there already is one!!!!!!!
