Why You Should Not Skip Aircraft Engine Pre-Heating Just Because Other Pilots Do Proper aircraft engine pre-heating begins with understanding what you are actually trying to achieve. You are not simply warming the oil or making the engine easier to start. You are preparing a cold-soaked mechanical assembly, made from different materials with temperature-dependent clearances, […]
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Aircraft Reliability Is an Ownership-System Outcome Cancelled flights, diversions, missed appointments, unplanned layovers, and the quiet dread of wondering whether the aircraft will be ready when you need it. Aircraft reliability is not only a maintenance issue. It is shaped by the way the aircraft is selected, equipped, stored, operated, monitored, and maintained over time.
Does the Way You Own and Operate Your Aircraft Affect Its Reliability? Read More »
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
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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
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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
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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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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
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
The Three Cs of Aircraft Maintenance: Competent, Communicative, Cooperative Read More »
