Why Intelligent Pilot-Owners Often Chase Symptoms Instead of Root Causes. A while ago, I gave a workshop for a local flight club on the ownership and operation of Continental- and Lycoming-powered aircraft. During the workshop, we discussed an issue with one of their aircraft. They reported an elevated oil temperature that had been increasing […]
Elevated Oil Temperature Is Often Just a Symptom, Not the Problem Read More »
Regulation may explain part of aviation’s slow progress. But the deeper reason many aircraft owners are still flying decades-old technology lies in a business problem first identified by Clayton M. Christensen. Industries’ outsiders often believe aviation represents the pinnacle of technology and innovation. At first glance, that assumption makes sense. Aircraft use high-quality materials, operate
Your Engine Probably Gave You Warning Signs. You Just Didn’t Notice Them. Most aircraft engine problems don’t appear out of nowhere. In many cases, the warning signs are there weeks, months, or even years before the issue becomes serious. The problem is that most aircraft owners never see them. Take exhaust valve failures
Active Aircraft Ownership Is Not About Distrusting the Aviation Ecosystem. It’s About Understanding Its Limitations. Many aircraft owners and pilots make the same mistake: they outsource their thinking when it comes to aircraft ownership and operation. I did the same when I started as Head of Flight Operations. At the time, it seemed like
The 3 Most Expensive Mistakes Aircraft Owners Make Read More »
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
Why “Adding a Little Bit of Fuel” Is Actually Damaging Your Engine Read More »
Aircraft Ownership Can Be Rewarding. But It Comes With Risks. Aircraft ownership can be one of the most rewarding things you can do. It is particularly fulfilling to share general aviation with family, friends, and partners. Aircraft ownership opens opportunities that are out of reach for most people. Only a few get to experience this
The Hidden Risks in Aircraft Ownership Read More »
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
Why Aircraft Ownership Is More Complex Than Most Pilot-Owners Expect Read More »
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
Is Owning an Aircraft Really Worth It? A Realistic Perspective for Pilot-Owners Read More »
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
In-Flight Test Procedures – DA40 with Lycoming IO-360-M1A Read More »
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
