I agree, that the type is really quite important.
However, a few points of detail.
Originally Posted by
Thumper15
Hi all - apologies in advance if I posted this twice....
Need help if at all possible. i currently fly an aircraft residing on a PtF. Have essentially seen an 'upgraded' version of my one for slightly more money which (sadly) sits of the ARC and C of A. Although both are Annex II aircraft, there is a chance the one I am looking at will go onto a permit but not in the next year.
So, where I am at right now is:
- I know I need an annual on the aircraft which will cost @1100 - 1500 which my current LAA engineer can conduct on behalf of a CEMA
There is, for present purposes, no such thing as an LAA Engineer.
You are responsible for the maintenance management of your aircraft. If you elect to delegate somebody else to do the work, that is your choice and responsibility -but they're certainly not qualified or appointed by the LAA.
There is an LAA inspector, but their job is to annually audit your (or your appointee's) care and maintenance of the aircraft, not to maintain it.
- I know I can do the 50 hour check
You can.
- I know I need a prop overhaul every 6 years
That is unusual, but presumably in the maintenance manual for your aeroplane. It's unlikely to be any different on CofA or permit, except that on a CofA you may be paying for some more expensive paperwork (which actually means a quality assurance system behind it).
- Engine has 500 hours and virtually rebuilt but sadly not signed off as zero timed but new pistons, crank, etc. I know as it is on a private c of a I escape binning it every 12 years regardless of hours
On a PtF that's totally irrelevant - you maintain it and do what's needed.
On a CofA it only becomes relevant, as you've correctly identified, if you plan on commercial use of the aircraft, for example for-profit instruction.
What I don't know is:
- is there still another tri-annual inspection cost I have to fork out?
It's unlikely that the maintenance shedule is any different, only the minimum qualifications of the people and/or organisation that you use to maintain the aircraft.
- CAA fees for registering the plane on a c of a or is this included in the annual?
- Radio annual cost?
- finally what I don't know what I don't know!
Firstly, it's almost certain that you can't move an aircraft from a PtF to a CofA.
Secondly - fees for a CofA and annual will mostly lie with the maintenance organisation. Speak to one or two suitably qualified organisations and ask for prices. Then add 50% for what it'll probably actually cost.
To add to the picture, the aircraft I am reviewing was rebuilt to a good standard in 2014 and has just had its annual/ARC renewed for another 12 months. Currently, all in, I pay around £850 p/a to keep my Permit going. I'm no engineer so am happy to pay for it to be done by an expert.
Anyway, feedback gratefully received!
PS. If I am really mad even considering going from Permit to C of A, just tell me
ARC is just a paperwork exercise - it's the maintenance side that actually costs real money.
Not knowing the type yet, I nonetheless think that you can reasonably expect to quadruple that figure for most CofA aeroplanes compared to a comparable PtF flying machine.
That's fine - so long as you will get adequate benefits - such as the ability to use it for instruction, or to fly IFR. If you don't need or value pretty highly those benefits - frankly, I'd recommend staying on a PtF.
G