Own Small Plane: To the affluent, owning a tiny plane is the aspiration, the epitome of freedom, adventure, and prestige. Before you ride the clouds in the sky, there are prices to consider. From the initial buy amounts to subsequent yearly expenses, here is what you should consider.
The price of purchasing a light aircraft varies according to model, age, and avionics.
Used aircraft such as the Cessna 172 or the Piper Cherokee can cost anywhere between ₹50 lakh to ₹1.5 crore.
Brand-new aircraft could be beyond ₹2 crore, especially if they incorporate high-technology avionics and luxury interiors.
Registration of the plane at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India involves documentation, inspection, and licensing. The legal costs and duties can again increase your balance by another ₹2–5 lakh.
While parking your plane at an airport, you may be required to pay hangar space or tie-down charges on a monthly basis. In India, it will be between ₹25,000–₹1 lakh for the month depending on location and airport.
Small aircraft burn 25–50 litres of flying fuel per hour. With AVGAS costing between ₹300 to ₹400 per litre, be prepared to pay as much as ₹7,000–₹15,000 per hour for flying charges.
Yearly maintenance in the form of spares and checks might be anything from ₹5–₹10 lakh.
Airplane insurance is obligatory and aircraft-specific. On an average, it might be ₹1–₹3 lakh yearly. Also, pilot licensing (if not yet done) and regular renewal of ₹3–₹5 lakh.
Operational cost annually can readily fall between ₹15 lakh to ₹30 lakh, excluding the purchase price. Even if an aircraft is a smart investment, to certain aircraft enthusiasts, the convenience and freedom of the aircraft can be priceless.
Also Read: Ahmedabad Plane Crash: Remembering Brave Crew of Air India AI171
Advice for First-Time Buyers
Begin with a second-hand aircraft, co-ownership, or joining a flying club so that there is firsthand experience of operational cost prior to outright acquisition.
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