Future 2000
It is my birthday and according to the count this is my 2000th post so forgive the self-indulgent post!
I have been posting for almost exactly 9 years (it is actually longer than that but the system was hacked and my user info lost so I had to re-join). Back then I was 16 months into my MCR build and running an AA5B.
I suspect that most people would say that sport aviation has taken a big turn for the worst over the last 9 years. I have a much more upbeat view. Back then there were no Rotax powered factory built machines being used for flight training and the Rotax 912 was viewed with suspicion. Flight training was restricted to licenced airfields. Factory built aircraft were not allowed on an LAA permit, a situation which has improved somewhat. The LAA was in a much weaker state than it is now – record membership and a record fleet size. Conversely, Fuel was relatively cheap and the economic situation was much belter. Maintenance on EASA aircraft is insanely expensive and the number of IMCR pilots is down.
Looking back at my “business case” for the MCR, I have archived most of the savings I expected over the AA5. The aircraft has exceeded my expectations and my switch from licenced airfield operation to strip flying has been very positive. If I could send myself a note back 9 years I would not change much.
So what about the next 9 years+? My MCR plan was to own her for 10 flying years and I am now on 7. My next project will be the one to carry me aloft into my retirement (still some years away), so there is much less room for error. I see the main threats (other than medical) to be Fuel, cost and airspace regulation (which is also connected to cost). My aim is to continue to enjoy long distance VFR touring around the UK and Europe but to reduce the risk of a big bill which my pension could not cope with. As such I am considering two options for 3 years from now.
1 – Sell 1 or 2 shares in the MCR. The MCR is a great bit of kit but it is very advanced with Rotax, CS prop, EFIS etc. The running costs are very low, but if the engine were to go pop I would be into a big bill. Shares would protect me from the full cost risk.
2 – Buy a Jodel or similar machine. This is the path I will probably follow. Unlike the Rotax, a small Continental can be rebuilt by me (with a lot of help from my friends). This is a task I my well do just as a learning exercise and to give me a spare engine, at some time in the future. The Jodel will be around £15k which will free up £30k – £35k of capital to spend on flying. It will still be capable of carrying two people and baggage + significant fuel for a week’s touring, but at reduced speed.
What solutions do other people plan on using to keep flying?
Rod1