As an aircraft owner, it is tempting to seek cost-effective solutions for maintenance to minimize expenses. However, opting for cheap maintenance services without considering the potential risks can have dire consequences for both safety and the long-term value of the aircraft....
While nothing about aviation can really be called ‘cheap,’ there are a few projects you can do to extend the life of your airplane, protect its value, and improve your aviation skills. Most require less than $50, an hour or two...
By Paul Bertorelli University of North Dakota’s flight school has decided to abandon Swift UL94 and return to 100LL after exhaust valve recession in Lycoming-powered aircraft. The school conducted an extensive trial using the new unleaded fuel almost exclusively in its...
Have you ever thought about getting your A&P? Maybe you want to learn more about aircraft systems to become a better pilot. Perhaps you would like to save money doing maintenance on your own aircraft. Or maybe you’re looking for a...
What does it cost to maintain an airplane properly? My answer: it depends. Maintenance varies based on the aircraft’s year, model, and operating mission. There are many schools of thought concerning aircraft maintenance. Because perception is reality, all of them are...
The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is a fantastic introduction to the world of aircraft ownership. It is affordable, easy to maintain, and very forgiving in the air. Parts are plentiful—always a key consideration when selecting an airframe—and with over 44,000 produced, you...
A new FAA program should reduce the difficulty of finding spare parts needed to keep vintage aircraft flying, according to the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). The Vintage Aircraft Replacement and Modification Article, or VARMA program, allows maintenance personnel to validate that...
