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Rescue Dogs and Airplanes

If one thing's for sure, a good dog and a good airplane make for a good life.

Corbett checking in on his dad's navigational skills up front. Courtesy: Dick Karl
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article draws a parallel between adopting rescue dogs and buying used airplanes, noting both often come with unknown histories and potential "issues" that require significant commitment.
  • The author recounts experiences with three dog-and-airplane pairings, starting with generally positive upgrades like Ubu and the Cessna 340, and Corbett and the Piper Cheyenne, which brought years of happy flying despite some quirks or health issues.
  • The final pairing of Rocco and a Beechcraft Premier highlighted the significant challenges and frustrations that can arise, with Rocco's aggression and the Premier's mechanical flaws leading to substantial costs and problems, yet demonstrating an enduring commitment from the author.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Rocco is a recue dog. Rocco has had “issues.” 323 Charlie Mike was a Beechcraft/Raytheon Premier 1. It had “issues.” The more you think about it, the more buying a used airplane has in common with getting a rescue dog. Somebody, somewhere was making this dog or that airplane available for a reason. Maybe the cost was too much; maybe they upgraded to a better model; maybe they decided to get out altogether. No matter how diligent the pre-buy inspection, you’re getting a bird that’s been turned back in for rescue. Even renting an airplane is akin to a rescue exercise—who knows where that dog has been?

Here’s the tale (tail) of three dogs and three airplanes. All had a budget; you will see how they spent their allowance.

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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