Sebastian

Why “Adding a Little Bit of Fuel” Is Actually Damaging Your Engine

Stop Adding Fuel for Safety. It’s Quietly Damaging Your Engine, Your Wallet, and Your Passengers’ Safety. Most pilot-owners are taught a simple rule: “When in doubt, go a bit richer.”   On Continental and Lycoming engines, that habit is one of the fastest ways to create fouled plugs, unnecessary carbon and lead build-up, and expensive […]

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Why Aircraft Ownership Is More Complex Than Most Pilot-Owners Expect

Why Aircraft Ownership Is More Complex Than Most Pilot-Owners Expect

Nobody Taught You How to Own and Operate Your Aircraft Like an Asset. Aircraft ownership can be surprisingly complicated for aspiring and seasoned pilots alike. The reasons are multi-layered and relate to the industry’s level of technology and the individual incentives of the different stakeholders involved.   Aircraft ownership is not as streamlined as owning

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Is owning an aircraft really worth it?

Is Owning an Aircraft Really Worth It? A Realistic Perspective for Pilot-Owners

Is Aircraft Ownership Worth It? As Always, It Depends. Aircraft ownership can be a gateway to freedom, fun, and flexibility. But it can also become a source of stress and burden. So is owning an aircraft really worth it? For many, it is. But only under the right conditions.   Aircraft ownership can amplify how

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In-Flight Test Procedures - DA40 Lycoming IO-360-M1A

In-Flight Test Procedures – DA40 with Lycoming IO-360-M1A

Why In-Flight Test Procedures Matter. In-flight test procedures are among the first things we ask clients to perform when we start working together or when they acquire a new (to them) aircraft. These tests quickly establish a baseline for your engine’s health. Completing the following in-flight test procedures takes about an hour. Yet, it provides

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Aircraft Maintenance Rules - Image

Aircraft Maintenance Rules: Set Clear Expectations With Your Maintenance Shop and Aircraft Mechanic

Why Defining Aircraft Maintenance Rules Matters for Every Pilot-Owner. Aircraft ownership comes with responsibility. One of the most important—but often overlooked—areas is setting clear rules with your maintenance shop and aircraft mechanic. Without clear expectations, confusion arises. Small misunderstandings can lead to major expenses, delays, or even safety issues. The solution? Define your aircraft maintenance

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The Three Cs of Aircraft Maintenance: Competent, Communicative, Cooperative

Why Choosing the Right Maintenance Shop Is Essential for Every Pilot-Owner. Aircraft maintenance can either protect your investment—or drain your wallet and confidence. It depends on the shop you choose and how you work with them. Over the past two weeks, I spoke with two aircraft owners who shared similar frustrations. In both cases, the

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From Pilot-Owner Academy to the Pilot-Owner Accelerator - Image

🚀 Why We Rebranded: From Pilot-Owner Academy to the Pilot-Owner Accelerator

Why the Change to Pilot-Owner Accelerator Matters and How it Helps You Fly Smarter, Safer, and More Cost-Effectively. The original idea for the Pilot-Owner Academy took shape at AERO Friedrichshafen 2024. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive—and we launched the programme shortly after. But it wasn’t until AERO 2025 that we realised the name didn’t fully

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Abnormal Combustion Events in Aircraft Piston Engines - Image

Engine Killers – Abnormal Combustion Events in Aircraft Piston Engines

Abnormal Combustion Events Will Eventually Kill Your Aircraft Piston Engine. Most aircraft piston engines still rely on technology from the 1960s and 70s. They lack modern sensors, knock detection, or advanced engine control units. This makes them vulnerable to detonation and pre-ignition—two forms of abnormal combustion that can destroy your engine if left unchecked. Modern

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AERO2025_Recap - Image

AERO 2025 Recap – Quest Aeronautics Is Fully Booked for This Quarter

Discover why so many pilot-owners are joining the Pilot-Owner Academy—and how you can secure your spot next. AERO 2025 was a major success. We connected with passionate aviators, entrepreneurs, and future aircraft owners. Our live events were packed, and the response to the Pilot-Owner Academy was overwhelming. We’re proud to share that we are now

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