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Expectations, Desires and Realities of Buying an Airplane

In my fast and sexy Beech Premier, I once saw a groundspeed of 577 knots. Dick Karl
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author purchased a Beechcraft Premier 1, initially drawn to its speed and ramp presence over a more practical CitationJet, despite early indications of higher-than-expected operational costs and a challenging type rating process.
  • His ownership was plagued by a persistent, unfixable "roll fail" warning light and alarmingly high parts prices, confirming the aircraft's "high maintenance" and financially demanding nature.
  • The Premier 1's ownership ended abruptly when a bird strike caused irreparable structural damage, leading to the aircraft being declared a total loss, prompting the author to appreciate and reconsider "sensible" aircraft for future ownership.
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The old man was seduced. There is no other way to put it. He was intrigued at first, then tempted, then smitten, and finally, all in. Against all rational thought, he was totally taken by the sexy 18-year-old. That old man was me. “She” was a 2000 Beechcraft Premier 1.

Dick Karl

Dick Karl is a cancer surgeon who appreciates the beauty and science involved in both surgery and flying. Dick’s monthly Gear Up celebrates the human side of flying. He writes about his enthusiasm for both the machines and the people who fly and maintain them.

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