Jason McDowell

Visual and mechanical tests mix with heavy dollops of nerves and self-doubt.

Jason McDowell says it’s worth your while to dig into the history of your aircraft, or one you’re eyeing up.

The classifieds are not the only place to find your next airplane. Just like in the business world, it could be about who you know.

Jason Williamson says flying clubs can give you a pretty good taste of airplane ownership before you dive completely in.

An unexpected favor for a friend turns into a fun day inspecting a Cessna 170B for Jason McDowell.

Jason McDowell gives some sage advice about narrowing down the choices and managing the allure of rare types when you’re trying to pick out your airplane.

Years ago, when I moved from Michigan to Wisconsin, I left behind the greatest flying club I’ve ever known. It had the most extensive fleet of any in the region. Seven airplanes were available, ranging from Cessna 152s to 182s and topped off with a Beechcraft Debonair, a less-expensive version of the legendary Beechcraft Bonanza. […]

Jason McDowell outlines the arduous process he went through to find the aircraft that was just right for him.

At some point, a pilot shopping for an airplane will inevitably arrive at a certain fork in the road on their journey to ownership: the decision of whether to go with tricycle gear or a taildragger. For some, it’s a decision they skip right over without a second thought. A pilot with his or her […]

Most pilots are introduced to tailwheel flying in small, two-place types such as the Piper Cub, Aeronca Champ and Cessna 140—airplanes that are perfectly suited to initial training and short pleasure flights. But as they build experience, more than a few pilots begin to recognize the limitations of these bantamweights and begin searching for an […]