The New Owner Voices Of Flying

Stranded in Chicago?

Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 02:54 PM ET

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Meigs Field was the best way to fly into Chicago for GA pilots—before it was destroyed in March 2003. [Credit: Friends of Meigs Field]

Key Takeaways:

The author frequently experienced significant frustration and inflexibility when renting aircraft due to scheduling conflicts and rigid return deadlines, often thwarting planned trips and spontaneity.
An anecdote about a rushed departure from Meigs Field, nearly stranding the pilots due to a rental deadline, exemplifies the pressures and lack of freedom associated with renting.
These recurring frustrations ultimately serve as the primary catalyst for pilots to pursue aircraft ownership, which offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility to fly spontaneously without external scheduling constraints or dependence on other renters.

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I didn’t know who McPherson was, but I knew I hated him.

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.