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Grounded by Fuel Prices

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • High fuel prices and broader economic instability are significantly impacting private aviation, making the author's turboprop ownership increasingly financially unsustainable.
  • Faced with exorbitant operating costs, exemplified by a trip costing over $3,000 in fuel versus under $500 for commercial travel, the author explores options like downgrading aircraft or co-ownership.
  • Despite receiving a compelling offer for his turboprop, the author ultimately decides not to sell, choosing instead to sacrifice other personal expenses and adapt his flying habits to retain his cherished aircraft.
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The price of gas, the price of gas. The shaky stock market and the hammered housing industry. These are the circling vultures of today. Suddenly, after years and years of moving up, making more, having more, feeling wealthier, I’m sensing the roller coaster slipping out from under me. On the internet, my trolling activity for new airplanes has switched from light jets to piston twins. Jet-A has just gotten out of hand.

I’m not sure I ever noticed previous “recessions.” Most were minor and occurred while I was otherwise occupied. If they had any direct effect on me or my purchasing power, I was too excited by other developments in my life to take much notice. I’m noticing now.

FLYING Staff

FLYING Magazine is a one-stop resource for everything aviation, including news, training, aircraft, gear, careers, photos, videos, and more.

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