The aim of my post was not to slur the maintenance business; it was to dig out some
numbers which one could add up to see why apparently not a lot of firms are making money.
I've been in a manufacturing business for 32 years so can probably add up OK.
What would be the rent/rates on a hangar big enough for four 10m-wingspan (PA28) planes to be worked on? From leases I've seen down here, I reckon it is about £50k/year; half that if you own a freehold or a long lease so you pay just a ground rent and rates.
Insurance should be a few k. I have seen a quote of £500/year for a non-maintenance 6-plane hangar - building and contents. With maintenance there is a liability cover also. Few k /year?
There has to be an "elephant in the room" somewhere.
but much more work goes into it than the 40 hours!
Why cannot you bill the extra hours?