After learning to fly, many pilots want to use their new skills to go places. Whether they rent or own an aircraft, and whether it’s a high-performance or a simple fixed-gear single, many pilots want to use their machines for on-demand transportation. It’s a natural desire for a freshly minted private pilot, and for a long time was general aviation’s bread and butter.
This urge to get the most utility out of general aviation aircraft is important to not only existing pilots but also non-pilots who have little interest in flying other than the possibility of escaping a deteriorating, uncomfortable and degrading airline system. Combining utility with reliable, safe transportation might help draw more participants into general aviation. The key to obtaining this utility is to recognize the special risks associated with flying maximum range missions.
