A couple of years ago, I was investigating the Stinson 108 series as part of my “Approachable Aircraft” series for the print edition of FLYING. As per usual, I sought out Stinson owners and interviewed them individually in an attempt to learn more than just what’s revealed in the pilot’s operating handbook. I asked my typical questions—what aspects of the airplane have surprised them, what three pieces of advice they would give to a prospective owner, what aspects of the airplane they wish they could change, etc.
Of the dozen or so owners I interviewed, one stood out when he said, “Every Stinson costs $50,000.” I glanced over at my market survey spreadsheet. It listed every Stinson for sale among six classified sites, and indicated the median asking price was half that amount. Confused, I asked him to explain.
