How has your flying changed since the economic downturn?

Jesus Nut

How has the economic down turn changed (or not) your flying as a private pilot ?

I struggle to fly once every 2-3 months and in 2012 I think I will only fly 2 or 3 times if I am lucky due to funds!

In the past 2 years now (due to economy) I have found every flight I do is just a rust breaker! ie, Because its so long since my last GA flight, I find myself only going flying to practice PFL's, EFATO's etc and the days of long cross countrys visiting different airfields (where the real fun is) is no more.

I have also noticed I am playing flight sim alot more just to try keep my hand in the game.

What has been your experience guys?

donvito99

I flew Aer Lingus for the first time in years this summer, using the new terminal. At the time the difference was astonishing; assigned seating, absence of garish colours etc. But thats worn off and I'll continue flying Ryanair to save a few bob, usually in the region of €20/€30.

Stovepipe

@jesusnut, you should consider a syndicate around a Piper Cub or suchlike. If you operate out of any of the grass airfields,ask around and see who's flying the taildraggers. Such simple two-seaters are typically operated for sub-Eu100/hr.

regards
Stovepipe

Jesus Nut

Stovepipe wrote: »

@jesusnut, you should consider a syndicate around a Piper Cub or suchlike. If you operate out of any of the grass airfields,ask around and see who's flying the taildraggers. Such simple two-seaters are typically operated for sub-Eu100/hr.

regards
Stovepipe

Unfortunatley I dont live near such fields. However, I did leave an expencive irish flying club and when I do fly its a 2 hour drive to Sligo to rent a 152 there and thats €135 an hour.

I am seriously considering not flying for 2 years and saving up cash insted to purchase a 1 seater flexwing as I hear they are very cheap to fly.

Stovepipe

Hi there
You'd be surprised how near you are to grass airfields. have a look at the NMAI website, for a start and get yourself a copy of William Flood's Aviator's Guide, details of which are on the Flying In Ireland website. You'll have your eyes opened!

regards
Stovepipe

Manic Moran

Actually, I have the opposite problem. I have a fairly fun, and reasonably well paying new job, but the way things work out, I don't have the time to go flying much any more. My IFR training has come to a screeching halt, I'll need to go over half the course again to get back up to speed.

I'm hoping to be sorted out come March again.

NTM

searescue

In 2009 I was flying about twice a week for PPL training, slowed to 12 lessons in 2010, got 3 in 2011 but a few hours handling as passenger - 2012, aint looking too good but I stay positive - I'll get there some day.

xflyer

Fly more than ever myself but then I don't have to pay for it.

Jesusnut, there are closer places than Sligo, Birr for one. Ormand Flying Club are very friendly. Then there's Abbeyshrule. Plus as Stovepipe say there are grass strips around.

owenc

Run_to_da_hills

For the UK its back to using the boat with me. Fed up with the punitive hassles of low cost flying along with restrictions and of course the non flexibility of schedule's.