Aerobatic a/c running costs

[jonnoboy]

I was wondering what the average costs of running/maintaining an aerobatic aircraft such as a Pitts, Christen Eagle etc would be. I would imagine the costs are somewhat higher than your average 172 or PA28 due to larger engine, C/S prop, inverted fuel and oil systems. Also what about the fabric covering?

Any insight greatly appreciated. Any high performance a/c, permit or certified.

Jonnoboy

[kevmusic]

Tipsy Nippers are aerobatic.

[Flyingcircusace]

CAA Pitts type in the London area, Hangarage £3000, insurance £2000, Maintenance (1 annual 1 50hr ) £3500 Based on a good year with nothing going wrong!!! Fuel burn on a 200hp machine (Pitts Eagle Laser) 60ltrs/hr aero 30-40ltrs/hr transit.
PFA machine has savings on the maintenance if you do it yourself.

[Zulu Alpha]

My 200HP fuel injected Laser uses ~40liters per hour overall (Aeros and ferry flights avaeraged). Plus 8 liters of oil and a filter every 25 hrs. It burns/leaks/blows out 1 liter every 5 hours

Variable costs are ~£75 per hour (incl fuel & oil as above). Fixed costs are about £3000/yr but a new engine or prop can change these numbers. It also depends on hanagarage costs which are not includedd in the above numbers.

150 hrs per year is a good number that balances spreading the fixed costs vs aircraft availailability. Most people share to get this number.

[jonnoboy]

Thanks guys,

Unfortunately I don't think I would be able to afford those sort of costs alone. Sounds like 2 or 3 people sharing a pfa type could be an affordable way to dance in the sky.