WIX Archives

Re: OUR WARBIRD PLEASE READ

Posted by Harm Jan Strating on Thu Feb 21, 2002 01:07:42 PM

In reply top OUR WARBIRD PLEASE READ posted by Tony on Thu Feb 21, 2002 06:21:44 AM

: This is the initial proposal, once again, feel free to kic
: k it to death/Make suggestions, thanks Scott
:
: Tony

I have been quietly following the proposal to acquire a warbird with a large group of warbird enthousiasts and am in principle interested in joining such a group. As an aircraft-owner, member of a 3 person group owning a second aircraft, licensed pilot, lawyer and working in accountancy I think I do have some experience with some of the major issues that are related to owning and operating an aircraft.

Firstly, as you are already looking for a lawyer, remember that the choice of a lawyer is largely dependend on the country where you want to base the organisation as, for instance, a Dutch lawyer will be able to assist if you decide to base your organisation in Holland but will be of little or no use if you decide to go for the US or any other place. And a lawyer you will need because, as we use to say, your aircraft is only ready for take-off when the weight of the paperwork equalls the weight of the airplane.

Secondly, the choice of the country where you are to base the operation will be of importance to the regulations you'll have to comply with regarding to licensing of the maintenance organisation, licensing of pilots, Air Operators Certificate, limitations on yearly numbers of hours that can be flown, restrictions on carrying passengers, etc. Dont't underestimate the effort needed to sustain an organisation aimed at flying any aircraft, let alone a passenger-carrying aircraft like a C-47. The organisation needed is in most respects equal to that of a small airline and has to be run at a professional level. No place for amateurism here (note: no place for amateurism, I don't mean amateurs, they are always wellcome as long as they act in a professional manner). And remember, even a very well-known and respected organisation like the Dutch Dakota Association is finding it increasingly difficult to operate their aircraft.

A last aspect to be taken into consideration is the type of aircraft. If you want to defray cost by operating the aircraft on the airshow circuit then select a type that is not too common and really stands out among the rest. I personally would not selct a C-47 if the aircraft was to be based in Europe as the type is quitte common. But what about a C-46? Count me in on one.(Know some very nice and inexpensive examples in Bolivia)

In my opinion you should first adress the issue of where to base your organisation. That being accomplished you can turn your attention to all the legal and practical implications involved and make a well documented business-plan. Only then do you have to start thinking about the easy part, selection and aquisition of an aircraft.

In short, I love to dream about the idea but get nightmare's thinking about all that has to be done.

Greetings from Holland,


Harm-Jan Strating

Follow Ups: