Joining a club got me back into flying again. I just couldn't afford to fly enough to stay proficient by renting or buying any more. I got my PPL when I was 16 years old, and flew on and off for years when the cash was there. When the kids needed braces or something, flying took a back seat, only to have that passion fade away with the payments. I was really fortunate to be "Recommended" by a member of this club to join. Our club has four airplanes, (3) C-172's and a C-182, all IFR equipped. We also have, what I consider to be, a good set of rules. The club is run as a Not for Profit corporation, and as such, can skirt the high insurance rates that a "Commercial" club would have to endure. We have a volunteer board, and some excellent members that are A&P mechanics. Scheduling is done online. 200 members, $600/yr. Hourly rates are $40-$55/hr dry. The key to a successful club is to get good, pre-qualified (by referral only) members, and strict adherence to the rules. If you want the benefit of the club, then you need follow the rules by the book, or hit the road.
