Register

Grounded by Fuel Prices

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author, a private pilot, is acutely feeling the impact of rising fuel prices and economic instability, making his current turboprop aviation model financially unsustainable compared to commercial travel.
  • He grapples with the emotional attachment to his high-performance turboprop (a Cheyenne) against the practical realities of its escalating operating costs, including a looming $300,000 engine overhaul.
  • Despite receiving a strong purchase offer for his aircraft and considering downgrading to more affordable options, the author ultimately decides to keep his Cheyenne.
  • To maintain ownership, he commits to significant personal sacrifices, reducing other expenses, and adjusting his flying habits to prioritize keeping his beloved turboprop in the air.
See a mistake? Contact us.

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.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE