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Piston Multi-Engine versus TurboProp over Mountain/Water Flights
Hi All Pilots,
We are pondering whether to purchase a TurboProp or a Multi-Engine Piston for recreational flights over water (mainly Atlantic Ocean) and mountainous areas in western United States. Here's the thing: we really should not spend more than $150k. Notice that we are not multi-engine rated yet, and will train for that (possibly) in the aircraft we end up purchasing. We live and are based in South Florida. We think the multi-engine piston is safer for flights over water than a single-engine piston, and we also think turboprop is safer than multi-engine piston (at least in terms of having a lower risk of an engine out). So, do you think our assumptions are correct? Is it possible to purchase a turboprop for $150k or less? Which aircraft should we focus on? Let us know what you think and thank! |
No you can’t get a turboprop for $150k. When you say Atlantic I’m assuming Bahama’s, Bermuda and from FLL a straight shot to like North Carolina? How many people and how much luggage? If anything look for a late ‘60s or early ‘70s normally aspirated (non turbo) Piper Aztec. At moderate power settings a good one will cruise at 160 kts TAS and burn 24-26 gallons/hr combined. Theyre in your budget but being an old grumpy mechanic who is very well known with Aztec’s. Pay him $1000 above his normal fee as he’ll be worth it 30 times over if it helps you avoid a toad. Reason being they built the last one in like 1978 and not every owner may have been as diligent as required with repairs and AD’s. Ive got 600 hrs in a 1966 Aztec C, honest airplane with a 2200 lbs useful load. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune....d97577066.jpeg |
$150k doesn't leave much wiggle room for even a piston single if you are thinking about Western US to Island flying. It's not just the initial buy in, but it's also the ongoing maintenance. You can consider a vintage Cessna 310 or Piper Seneca as well, but before scratching the check, make sure you talk to twin piston owners and A&Ps about the direct operating costs and yearly maintenance so you don't go into it with a huge grin, and then a year down the road an ugly scowl when you're staring at an major repair/annual bill.
People new to aviation tend to buy at the very top of their budget range, which is a quick way to find oneself drowning in financial liabilities. There is a school of thought that a twin piston just "gets you to the crash site faster", and that you are doubling your chances of an engine failure, which is not unfounded. Just make sure you've done all your research before you buy. You might find a single engine Mooney or Cessna 210 acceptable for 90% of the flying you want to do. |
What the above posters have said. That, and if you're pressed for 150k, perhaps twin/turbo prop ownership isn't in your cards right now, especially for ocean crossings.
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No you can’t get a turboprop for $150k. |
Here’s a nice looking Aztec but it’s been out of annual so hasn’t flown in 3 years. Probably wise to replace all belts, hoses and everything that’s not a hard line. Still you could spend $40k on it and still be within budget. https://www.aviationclassifieds.com/...or-sale/257499 But this is where you need your very experienced Aztec mechanic that knows all the issues. |
150k buys you a lot of risk free charter. 150k is not a lot of money for a purchase. Beware if it looks too good to be true...... |
Well worth considering the cost of running it as well, 150k to aquire is one thing but the ongoing costs are another all together. |
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