My background has been in Aviation ever since I was 17 I earned a Private license ( I'm now 91, retired with a Commercial, Multi-engine and instrument ratings) Always had an interest in these A/C, especially those that don't require a Valid Medical .... I've watch several of these demonstrations and can honestly say yours was the easiest to follow and was understandable. I'm still shocked at the prices and I would like to see more affordable, Reliable engines and props !!!! I'll continue to monitor your Video's, Keep up the good work..
I truly think experimental is the way to go. Even if you are trying to build hours, and some experimental aircraft are as cool as the certified aircraft. Just cheaper in some cases. Some are crazy expensive. But low cost low speed still will get the time building the same as a certified aircraft. Great video Jon, love the content keep it coming.
Thank you for your "no-nonsense" video. I've not flown my own aircraft...yet, but you are certainly motivating. LOL I really appreciate your channel so I just subscribed.
I used to fly an early Challenger. Back when they were single place and had a 2-cylinder Rotax with a recoil starter overhead. And... no license at all required. Tons of fun and a very intuitive and stable plane. Incredibly slow take-off and landing speeds, could fly it in and out of small fields and the ability to get to altitude cut the engine and soar. The 12:1 glide ratio meant that 5,000 feet could have you soaring with the engine off for almost an hour, if the thermals cooperated. Haven't been able to afford to own one for years but - if I ever do come upon some spare change - I'll be looking for another one. Great value for money!
Really appreciation your down to earth easy to understand approach to this topic. A lot of the other videos on UA-cam are sales pitches for GA , while not bad they tend to drag out. Thanks for your efforts.
To save your engine, plug your exhaust and cover your intake when parked. Moisture getting into the engine and corroding the bearings, is the biggest cause of these engines failing. Cheers from Winnipeg.
Investigated challenger A/C 20 years ago. Always one of the fav for flying on budget. Aero lites are built here in our city. A far 103 A/C but pricey! Sun n fun lakeland is the place to go to stay current with the newer companies building 103 today. Frankly, while a student pilot back in the early 90s it soon became apparent flying alone is a drag. The tandem challenger or the SxS kolb are the way to go! Buy the plane get the licence for flying lite aircraft its much more rewarding. And ya can still go solo when ya want too. Kinda wish more companies would offer a fold up trailered plane either tow behind car or towed on trailer...the hangar cost is the number 1 obstacle that keeps a hefty number of folks on the ground who otherwise would be flying if their aircraft could be stored in garage out building or a dedicated covered trailer. Hang tuff.
It’s true, you don’t have to be rich to fly. I fly a fisher with a 1/2 VW engine. It’s an experimental amateur built so I don’t have to pay for annual condition inspection, I do it myself. Something that would make a good video would be the benefits of joining your local EAA chapter. There’s way to much to put here in the comments section, but the access to everything you need to fly for cheap AND safely can be found with the EAA. You’re also going to make some life long friends. I like flying larger planes as a private pilot, I rent from time to time, but nothing beats low and slow.
I didn't even know about the challenger, I like the chinook, but I wanted to mention is 303 it's sold at camping world, I put on my fan belts and tires and radiator hose its a rubber treatment makes all that stuff last for a long time. Thanks for the video !!!!!
Thank you for the video's, I have two challenger 2's one 1995 and a 2009, the 95 I was rebuilding than I found the 09 that was already certified for a good price. I haven't got off the ground yet but watching you all the time is working up my nerve and excitement. so Thank you again from Montana
@jrotwood5279 just remember it's an airplane flys the same there's just a slight delay in control response! If you don't get up by summer maybe I need to come up there and help with the process!
OK Couple of comments on cost, there is the Stratux as a kit so you can save some coin there. I run Avare (and now AvareX) on my android tablet (AvareX is now on IOS too) and the app is free, so no cost for that. Cellular service is different then GPS which is satellite based. I know that in order to get the gps receiver you have to the cellular version of the ipad but they are two different technologies. I use the Comtronics intercom which requires their headsets which are fine and relatively cheap. In the future Ill probably get a better radio as my Icom A6 doesn't have a lot of the features I want and its awkward to use. Metal!! tape (buhahah). There is something to be said for Rotax 503, I have a Hirth 3203 and it has been a great engine so far, but support is limited compared to the Rotax and thats my only concern, however having 10 more horses is nice.
Vid popped up on my feed months after I had given up on flying mainly due to the expensive proposition of doing so. You have peaked my interest again and I will be looking back into it thanks
I had one for many years and really enjoiyed it. Had to stop flying for health reason and now I fly RC, the closest to the Challenger is the Aeroscout! Thanks for the video!
I really appreciate your entire presentation, especially your detailed cost breakdown and how to save bucks. I have thought about getting into flying, but maybe a little bit like you, I can squeeze a penny until it squeaks.
Thank you! a very well good video, lots of good information. I started the long winding road to a license 60 years ago. Got stopped when It was discovered that I have red/green color deficiency. At the time that was a disqualification. As I understand, now a sport license is a possibility. Here's hoping...
Rather than getting a more expensive aircraft would you consider adding floats to your challenger? I think being able to land on water or a grass field is the ultimate adventure vehicle and learning a new skill is always rewarding. If you do purchase a zenith would you consider using the Viking Honda engine?.. much more modern and far cheaper to maintain than others; very reliable as well. Cheers.
@Tryagain205 I have 503 they say 582 is recommended for floats and honestly our bodies of water are full of tree trunks ans so on so maybe I'd I lived somewhere else! Yes vikings sounds like a good engine but I will probably just find the best deal at that time!
I am 57 years old and starting my Private Pilot License (PPL) training under Part 61. I own a Challenger 1, but unfortunately, I cannot use it in Mexico. To obtain my Private Pilot Certificate, I am currently learning on a C172, with experience in three different models as of now. My logbook has four pages, and I will be completing my sixth flight on the 5th page next week ( each page as 10 lines. The costs I incur include $145 for airplane rental and $65 for the instructor, along with additional expenses for traveling to the airport. I usually have about 1.5 hours of flight time per session (I don't want to calculate the total cost). One important lesson I’ve learned is to never fly if you are feeling upset or stressed from your day or work. Attend your training sessions only when you are completely free of any distractions. I hope to complete my training in about 30 flights, but there have been times when I haven’t felt fully focused in the air. You won’t realize how much your mind can affect your performance until you start to mix up frequencies or forget the names of the pattern legs. It all seems to cascade like a snowball rolling down a hill.
@mecanicodejetski that's awesome you're pursuing your passion! And yes the IMSAFE acronym is a very important one! I have made the decision to not fly based off of it on more than one occasion!
I had visions of paramotoring for a time, but now at 61 I don't see sprinting on takeoff and landing (not interested in a trike paramotor). 103 looks like the new dream and maybe eventually sport. Keep the vids and info coming! 👍
I like your content. I owned a C150 years ago and building a 701 now (just started). My motivation to build is to make owning/operating an aircraft affordable in retirement. G
Also, you are absolutely correct about TBO. Overhaul times are good as a reference however, if you are really paying attention and having a good engine mechanic looking at condition, you can have a good idea of where the engine is at and when it is time to overhaul. The Major Overhaul was comforting from a knowing what you have perspective.
@TheJonjonj I'm estimating 1-2 years after building the tail. I would have to buy the whole kit upfront. Looking to attend the Zenith course in mid 2026. I've flown the CH750 with Roger a couple years ago, love it!
@TheJonjonj I have the plans and am reading it/ watching a UA-cam tutorial for the affordaplane. I'm at least 6 months out starting it, and I figure it will take me 2 years. In that time; I will also be reading the codes for flying, and take at least one flying lesson, so I can have an understanding on how to fly.
A part 103 legal PPC is probably the cheapest because you can store it in your garage and haul it around on an open trailer. My PPC that I built in 1997 has a Rotax 582 now with about 2000 hours. Engine is all original.
@MrHugemoth yea I agree that's why I started off with the 103 but moved to registered license required aircraft but you're 100% right and if that's what it takes I say getter done! 2000 hours that's freaking awesome! Any tips to longevity?
Good, honest video. For local, within a hundred or so miles, why GPS? I know it’s been a few decades, but my second cross country was Kerrville, Tx to Flint, Mi., pilotage all the way. Comms would be nice, though.
Just hanger rent, electric bill and annual insurance policy is just over 400/month for our Cessna 172. Annual inspection around 900 without finding anything wrong with the plane. Because we use it for commercial aerial photography/videography, the Cessna 172 was the best choice for overall expenses.
Another affordable way to fly is gliders. Joining a glider club and flying every weekend will cost about $2-3000 a year. Less if you're using a winch instead of aerotow. Plus, being able to do a 2 hour or cross-country flight without burning fuel is a lot of fun.
That is what I learned in …….Lodi California …. I went on to buy a Kolb but I wish I would have bought a gt instead. Thank you for sharing. Retired now in az
Another good video. Keep ‘em coming. I wonder if a person had a reliable partner to share all expenses with. Lots of general aviation owners have a partner.
Got my Private Pilots License two weeks ago and I'm looking at getting a Challenger XL65. The only thing holding me back is finding a place to store it. In the meantime a friend of mine owns a Cessna 150 and will let me rent it.
Can those aircraft be converted to a gyrocopter? Shoten the wings, add the top roter. The shape of the hanger would change and be more affordable. The gyrocopter style is safer and be more versatile than the original.
I've yelled at a lot of the videos that you referenced. They drive me crazy. I want back into flying. My previous planes were a Weedhopper and a Quicksilver MX.
@@TheJonjonj, Family life is in the way. I have to make sure I have the budget, and with two boomerangs for children that are a hinderance to such budgets, I can't do it right now. My middle two haven't figured out life yet. I can't spare the money right now. I will get back into it if and when I get them settled.
Funny thing is, I set up a UA-cam channel years ago to do what you're doing and never made much if any content. Another case of family life getting in the way.
I had the good fortune to fly in a Challenger 2 years ago. Great little aircraft and I'm a fan of experimentals in general. Definitely a cheap way to go. My first airplane was a Piper Colt and it was about as inexpensive as you can get in a certified aircraft and would put the financials similar to your Challenger. After selling it and getting a Cessna 175, I can say that I miss the fun factor of the Colt. If you're just flying around the patch and locally, small and slow have a fun/$ ratio that makes way more sense.
Is a great video nice done I watch videos always and you doing a good job I have a aerolite 103 I haven’t fly it yet, a bunch of thing I got done When over all the wiring, motor nuts, a put a mark on all the bolts so I know if they move, also replace the cable brackets for hydraulic ones The stratus that you have can let you see other planes around you?.. I have a yeasu 850L I will like to put a external antenna like you did, great idea How you connect your antenna? You have to used a connector?
@nvrqit9361 yes the stratus allows me to see them but not the other way around unfortunately! Yes you can order the cable through aircraft spruce.com and go to salvage yard and pull one off a GA aircraft they work so well!
Good video and very informative and no bs. I gladly comment because it is so refreshing. Hope you get an income soon. Hope you have clear skies to fly in.
You're not cheap, you're frugal. Thanks for the cost analysis. I am sick of watching punks buying $100,000 dollar airplanes and then hoping their Patreon subscribers pick up the tab. I did subscribe and liked. Hope you make a killing doing this.
Exactly frugal is the word! Thank you for your support and I would just love to get by financially on my passion so that's my goal! Thank you so much for watching!
I had a Challenger 2 about 20 years ago and loved it. I got my Basic Flight Instructors endorsement for Ultralights so I was legal to take a passenger for instruction, normally my wife. She loved flying with me and we went a lot of places. I had a group of flying buddies, another Challenger 2 (some times on floats) 2 Rans, one Coyote 2 one Airle with Rotax 80 HP, a Sky raider single. we would gather and fly from place to place. Only sold the airplane when my wife's health started to take up all my time and it sat in the hanger for a year without me flying. I may get another one, once I clear up everything deferred while caring for till her death last year.
I bought an Air Command Gyrocopter that came with a new set of Skywheel rotors, new rotor head, new 503 Rotax, many extras including new “pumper” carbs. I paid 9,000 for it and spent 17 months going completely through it to make sure everything was correct. Now, collectively and not counting labor (my hangar mate is A&P mech) I have roughly 14,000 into it and I replaced most gauges, made a new instrument panel, new pre rotator brackets, all new electric and fuel lines.. I’m going to fly this afternoon before the rain gets here tomorrow. I fly part 103 FAA but in 98 received my PPL. This is the least expensive way to fly (safely) in my opinion.
Cool videos man! I have a question. Could the challenger carry a Rotax 914 UL. And if so what do you think the difference in performance and fuel consumption be. And do you think a four stroke is more reliable than a two stroke. Thanks
@spyrosplomaritis2315 the largest I've heard of on challenger is Rotax 618 I believe with a large 4 stroke you would be to far Aft CG. Plus it would become a single seater just based on the weight! I think 2 stroke are very reliable as long as they are closely monitored! Every single flight I'm checking fuel lines filters plugs and just eye balling things! The other day I had a Cracked carb boot so it pays of to do a great pre flight!
You nailed it, gotta go experimental, certified is way too restricted and expensive. With experimental you can do your own engine overhauls and inspections if you're comfortable with that. I'm looking at 2 spot Sonex models, I like the full enclosure, looks, speed and fuel efficiency, second choice would be a challenger 2 but gotta have some speed. Great video!
One thing I would kindly suggest is maybe a tripod (even if not every second) any percentage of the vid is better than 0%. It seems for some of us to have a motion sick inducing quality without. Just 2 cents, I could watch MORE of your vids that way 😁 Thanks for the info.
Congrats on starting an Inexpensive flying website, much Kudos. I agree, C172s are great, but several hundred $$$ per hour, make for not making GA affordable to most people with an interest. Also, I enjoyed that you covered ALL realistic costs, something you dont see often. Thank you so much for your thoughts on this subject, please continue your work along these lines.
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
My background has been in Aviation ever since I was 17 I earned a Private license ( I'm now 91, retired with a Commercial, Multi-engine and instrument ratings) Always had an interest in these A/C, especially those that don't require a Valid Medical .... I've watch several of these demonstrations and can honestly say yours was the easiest to follow and was understandable. I'm still shocked at the prices and I would like to see more affordable, Reliable engines and props !!!! I'll continue to monitor your Video's, Keep up the good work..
Thank you for the kind words 🙏 there is much more to come!
Buying and owning a Challenger II is cheaper than Side-by-Sides, ATV, Snowmobiles, and way more fun in my opinion.
@VerticalSpeed1987 well said! Thanks for commenting!
I bought a cherry S-12 XL for $14k. I've spent more on a motorcycle.
Good video, for us people that have never owned a plane.
I truly think experimental is the way to go. Even if you are trying to build hours, and some experimental aircraft are as cool as the certified aircraft. Just cheaper in some cases. Some are crazy expensive. But low cost low speed still will get the time building the same as a certified aircraft. Great video Jon, love the content keep it coming.
@@TommyDavidson-xh8zb thanks bro! Can't wait till the 14th!
Thank you for your "no-nonsense" video. I've not flown my own aircraft...yet, but you are certainly motivating. LOL I really appreciate your channel so I just subscribed.
@@dw6118 awesome thank you so much!
I used to fly an early Challenger. Back when they were single place and had a 2-cylinder Rotax with a recoil starter overhead. And... no license at all required. Tons of fun and a very intuitive and stable plane. Incredibly slow take-off and landing speeds, could fly it in and out of small fields and the ability to get to altitude cut the engine and soar. The 12:1 glide ratio meant that 5,000 feet could have you soaring with the engine off for almost an hour, if the thermals cooperated. Haven't been able to afford to own one for years but - if I ever do come upon some spare change - I'll be looking for another one. Great value for money!
Very well said! Thank you for the clarity!! Love the no B.S. approach! Love it! And you’re not cheap! Frugal! Cost effective!
@@JoseRamos-su3ep frugal is the best way to describe me 😆
That video was the most insightful, retrospective View of aviation. Pretty refreshing.
@Aquacentric wow thank you for the kind words!
Really appreciation your down to earth easy to understand approach to this topic. A lot of the other videos on UA-cam are sales pitches for GA , while not bad they tend to drag out. Thanks for your efforts.
To save your engine, plug your exhaust and cover your intake when parked. Moisture getting into the engine and corroding the bearings, is the biggest cause of these engines failing. Cheers from Winnipeg.
Thanks for the tip! Stay warm up there my friend!
Investigated challenger A/C 20 years ago. Always one of the fav for flying on budget. Aero lites are built here in our city. A far 103 A/C but pricey! Sun n fun lakeland is the place to go to stay current with the newer companies building 103 today. Frankly, while a student pilot back in the early 90s it soon became apparent flying alone is a drag. The tandem challenger or the SxS kolb are the way to go! Buy the plane get the licence for flying lite aircraft its much more rewarding. And ya can still go solo when ya want too.
Kinda wish more companies would offer a fold up trailered plane either tow behind car or towed on trailer...the hangar cost is the number 1 obstacle that keeps a hefty number of folks on the ground who otherwise would be flying if their aircraft could be stored in garage out building or a dedicated covered trailer.
Hang tuff.
@hokehinson5987 yes I agree with all this 😆 thanks for watching
Thanks for the break down in costs! I've always been interested in these smaller aircraft.
It’s true, you don’t have to be rich to fly. I fly a fisher with a 1/2 VW engine. It’s an experimental amateur built so I don’t have to pay for annual condition inspection, I do it myself. Something that would make a good video would be the benefits of joining your local EAA chapter. There’s way to much to put here in the comments section, but the access to everything you need to fly for cheap AND safely can be found with the EAA. You’re also going to make some life long friends. I like flying larger planes as a private pilot, I rent from time to time, but nothing beats low and slow.
@@Ifly1976 I agree! So you built your airplane? Low and slow is better for sure!
@ yep, I’m an experienced cabinet and furniture maker. Building an airplane from wood and fabric was fairly easy. Very fun too..
I didn't even know about the challenger, I like the chinook, but I wanted to mention is 303 it's sold at camping world, I put on my fan belts and tires and radiator hose its a rubber treatment makes all that stuff last for a long time. Thanks for the video !!!!!
I will look into it thank you for the tip!
Thank you Jon for sharing your experience with the experimental plane
@josemgomez3740 no problem! Thank you for watching!
Thank you for the video's, I have two challenger 2's one 1995 and a 2009, the 95 I was rebuilding than I found the 09 that was already certified for a good price. I haven't got off the ground yet but watching you all the time is working up my nerve and excitement. so Thank you again from Montana
@jrotwood5279 just remember it's an airplane flys the same there's just a slight delay in control response! If you don't get up by summer maybe I need to come up there and help with the process!
OK Couple of comments on cost, there is the Stratux as a kit so you can save some coin there. I run Avare (and now AvareX) on my android tablet (AvareX is now on IOS too) and the app is free, so no cost for that. Cellular service is different then GPS which is satellite based. I know that in order to get the gps receiver you have to the cellular version of the ipad but they are two different technologies. I use the Comtronics intercom which requires their headsets which are fine and relatively cheap. In the future Ill probably get a better radio as my Icom A6 doesn't have a lot of the features I want and its awkward to use. Metal!! tape (buhahah). There is something to be said for Rotax 503, I have a Hirth 3203 and it has been a great engine so far, but support is limited compared to the Rotax and thats my only concern, however having 10 more horses is nice.
@jackryan152 oh yea I agree there are lots of options these are just mine of course! I would like the hirth too maybe one day!
Vid popped up on my feed months after I had given up on flying mainly due to the expensive proposition of doing so. You have peaked my interest again and I will be looking back into it thanks
Come back to the dark side 😆 🤣
I had one for many years and really enjoiyed it. Had to stop flying for health reason and now I fly RC, the closest to the Challenger is the Aeroscout! Thanks for the video!
@49richard hey atleast your still enjoying aviation through your hobby! Thanks for watching
I really appreciate your entire presentation, especially your detailed cost breakdown and how to save bucks. I have thought about getting into flying, but maybe a little bit like you, I can squeeze a penny until it squeaks.
@rossk4864 😆 yea it's more because it's what I can afford without financing but one day I will have a payment on a zenith probably!
Here to support your channel! Anything aviation, I’ll watch it.😎🤘🏼
Love it thank you!
Like the honest straightforward info and approach. We want to encourage people to fly so just keep it simple! Cheers
Thank you for the support and for watching!
Thank you! a very well good video, lots of good information. I started the long winding road to a license 60 years ago. Got stopped when It was discovered that I have red/green color deficiency. At the time that was a disqualification. As I understand, now a sport license is a possibility. Here's hoping...
Thank you for a refreshlingly straight and helpful information video. Super.
@garthrichert5256 no problem thanks for watching!
Rather than getting a more expensive aircraft would you consider adding floats to your challenger?
I think being able to land on water or a grass field is the ultimate adventure vehicle and learning a new skill is always rewarding.
If you do purchase a zenith would you consider using the Viking Honda engine?.. much more modern and far cheaper to maintain than others; very reliable as well.
Cheers.
@Tryagain205 I have 503 they say 582 is recommended for floats and honestly our bodies of water are full of tree trunks ans so on so maybe I'd I lived somewhere else! Yes vikings sounds like a good engine but I will probably just find the best deal at that time!
I am 57 years old and starting my Private Pilot License (PPL) training under Part 61. I own a Challenger 1, but unfortunately, I cannot use it in Mexico. To obtain my Private Pilot Certificate, I am currently learning on a C172, with experience in three different models as of now. My logbook has four pages, and I will be completing my sixth flight on the 5th page next week ( each page as 10 lines.
The costs I incur include $145 for airplane rental and $65 for the instructor, along with additional expenses for traveling to the airport. I usually have about 1.5 hours of flight time per session (I don't want to calculate the total cost).
One important lesson I’ve learned is to never fly if you are feeling upset or stressed from your day or work. Attend your training sessions only when you are completely free of any distractions. I hope to complete my training in about 30 flights, but there have been times when I haven’t felt fully focused in the air. You won’t realize how much your mind can affect your performance until you start to mix up frequencies or forget the names of the pattern legs. It all seems to cascade like a snowball rolling down a hill.
@mecanicodejetski that's awesome you're pursuing your passion! And yes the IMSAFE acronym is a very important one! I have made the decision to not fly based off of it on more than one occasion!
Thanks for the no-nonsense realistic review. I'll probably never fly myself, but it's nice to see the enthusiasm.
Never say never 😆
I had visions of paramotoring for a time, but now at 61 I don't see sprinting on takeoff and landing (not interested in a trike paramotor). 103 looks like the new dream and maybe eventually sport. Keep the vids and info coming! 👍
@mikes8948 hey you're the perfect age! Let's go! Thanks for watching
I like your content. I owned a C150 years ago and building a 701 now (just started). My motivation to build is to make owning/operating an aircraft affordable in retirement. G
Building a plane is a great way to get affordable flying!
Thanks!
@BenR-p1h oh man thank you so much! You're always supportive I appreciate this!
Also, you are absolutely correct about TBO. Overhaul times are good as a reference however, if you are really paying attention and having a good engine mechanic looking at condition, you can have a good idea of where the engine is at and when it is time to overhaul. The Major Overhaul was comforting from a knowing what you have perspective.
I agree! The rotax in my opinion will start telling you when she's done! Thank you for watching and commenting!
Here to support you, keep this interesting (and basic) information coming please!
Thanks for watching I am trying to keep it simple!
Thanks for the video. I enjoyed watching and learning.
@@OmarPerez-nk4fv thanks for watching more to come!
Man, Im excited to join the ranks of you guys that are FLYING! So awesome!!
We are ready for you!
Zenith is my dream aircraft... already bought the tail assembly course for the CH750 😎
My dream bird too! What is your timeline to finish?
@TheJonjonj I'm estimating 1-2 years after building the tail. I would have to buy the whole kit upfront. Looking to attend the Zenith course in mid 2026. I've flown the CH750 with Roger a couple years ago, love it!
I'm planning on building an ultralight. I've read all the regulations for it, and I'm going to buy a set of plans. Wish me luck. Thanks for the video.
@josephbarker91 what aircraft are you purchasing?
@TheJonjonj I have the plans and am reading it/ watching a UA-cam tutorial for the affordaplane. I'm at least 6 months out starting it, and I figure it will take me 2 years. In that time; I will also be reading the codes for flying, and take at least one flying lesson, so I can have an understanding on how to fly.
Thanks for making these vids. I enjoy and learn from them.
@@tomspencerful no problem! Thank you for watching the videos it's the only way I can continue to make them!
Nicely presented. Thanks for the content. All the best
@@michaelsimpson9779 🙏 thank you!
Thank you. Very well explained.
@@markpacey1009 thanks for watching!
Excellent informational video! Thanks for sharing.
@thecidpguy1142 thank you! Appreciate you watching
Been interested in ultralight flying for some time. Retired now and might finally find time to actually get into it.
@@charlesalvey491 do it! You won't regret it
My buddy and I have been looking into Challengers for YEARS!!!
Glad this channel found me. Many thanks for the video!
Thank you for watching!
A part 103 legal PPC is probably the cheapest because you can store it in your garage and haul it around on an open trailer. My PPC that I built in 1997 has a Rotax 582 now with about 2000 hours. Engine is all original.
@MrHugemoth yea I agree that's why I started off with the 103 but moved to registered license required aircraft but you're 100% right and if that's what it takes I say getter done! 2000 hours that's freaking awesome! Any tips to longevity?
Appreciate the information great help
@@williambobst1480 thank you for watching!
Keep it up! All the best!
Appreciate it, I'm glad you like it!
Good, honest video. For local, within a hundred or so miles, why GPS? I know it’s been a few decades, but my second cross country was Kerrville, Tx to Flint, Mi., pilotage all the way. Comms would be nice, though.
@richardchisholm2073 what type of aircraft did you do that in?
That was a Mooney Cadet, fresh from the factory. No mounted radios.
Thank you for your honesty... You are the honest Joe of light-sport / and certified pilot.
Thanks for watching I appreciate the support! I try to just state the facts but I don't know everything I'm learning daily
Nice info without fluff.
Fluff free environment! Thanks for watching!
I love the video you keep it real
@AlfredoCastillo-mf4fg thanks for your continued support!
Cheaper and safer than a big motorcicle! Nice!
Agreed!
Just hanger rent, electric bill and annual insurance policy is just over 400/month for our Cessna 172. Annual inspection around 900 without finding anything wrong with the plane. Because we use it for commercial aerial photography/videography, the Cessna 172 was the best choice for overall expenses.
Oh yea that definitely makes sense! Thanks for watching
You can use an experimental for aerial photography.
@@Lurch-Bot FAA says no to commercial use
I don’t think I will ever add up cost on my challenger,the fun of flying that plane is priceless 😊
@alkempton1512 😆 well said Al!
Another affordable way to fly is gliders. Joining a glider club and flying every weekend will cost about $2-3000 a year. Less if you're using a winch instead of aerotow. Plus, being able to do a 2 hour or cross-country flight without burning fuel is a lot of fun.
That's a great alternative and I will look into it thanks for the suggestion!
That is what I learned in …….Lodi California …. I went on to buy a Kolb but I wish I would have bought a gt instead. Thank you for sharing. Retired now in az
@@erickramer9291 what part of AZ?
@ queen creek
how to do the rough weather capability of SLSA and Part 103 aircraft compare with GA aircraft such as the C172
Both should definitely avoid it specifically 103 but maybe it's a video for the future!
I appreciate your frankness!
No sugarcoating here! Thank you for watching!
Love the straightforward approach
@michaelhughesdvm thank you for watching!
We live in Yellowknife, Canada. -30 C forecast this evening. Too cold even for my 172 :)
Thanks for sharing, fly safe
I will thanks for watching!
Another good video. Keep ‘em coming. I wonder if a person had a reliable partner to share all expenses with. Lots of general aviation owners have a partner.
@gregosborn8284 that would be great but not many people I trust enough to be fair and reasonable unfortunately!
Got my Private Pilots License two weeks ago and I'm looking at getting a Challenger XL65. The only thing holding me back is finding a place to store it. In the meantime a friend of mine owns a Cessna 150 and will let me rent it.
@Damon.W1990 that's awesome! Getter done you will love it!
Great video! Informative on prices and historic. Been thinking about a two seater first in tandem. Then later one like Yours. Will keep watching! ❤
Can those aircraft be converted to a gyrocopter? Shoten the wings, add the top roter. The shape of the hanger would change and be more affordable. The gyrocopter style is safer and be more versatile than the original.
No not that I know of!
I've yelled at a lot of the videos that you referenced. They drive me crazy. I want back into flying. My previous planes were a Weedhopper and a Quicksilver MX.
@@donniewatson9120 right! They drive me bonkers! Get back into it! Life is too short not to!
@@TheJonjonj, Family life is in the way. I have to make sure I have the budget, and with two boomerangs for children that are a hinderance to such budgets, I can't do it right now. My middle two haven't figured out life yet. I can't spare the money right now. I will get back into it if and when I get them settled.
Funny thing is, I set up a UA-cam channel years ago to do what you're doing and never made much if any content. Another case of family life getting in the way.
It's never too late
Another great video, Jon.
@@Wingwalker77 thank you so much!
Great video, very spot on information. Well done!
@sipet214 thank you for watching! More to come
Very cool video. Thank you.
Thank you 🙏
Good video! If you are getting bored with flying get a tail wheel!
@markclark1634 I plan to for sure! Working on cfi now!
This is great! Keep it up. Sport flying should be promoted so much more!
@matthewpellegrini2740 I agree 100% thanks for watching
I had the good fortune to fly in a Challenger 2 years ago. Great little aircraft and I'm a fan of experimentals in general. Definitely a cheap way to go. My first airplane was a Piper Colt and it was about as inexpensive as you can get in a certified aircraft and would put the financials similar to your Challenger. After selling it and getting a Cessna 175, I can say that I miss the fun factor of the Colt. If you're just flying around the patch and locally, small and slow have a fun/$ ratio that makes way more sense.
Thanks for the comment! You're right, the "fun factor" of flying a small airplane can't be beat.
Great video, gives me hope.
Awesome I love that! Now let's turn hope into reality!
Love the videos!
Have you read Manifesto by Mike Busch? It’s on audible, lots of recommendations from mechanics are not required.
@botanicallybuilding no I will check it out though! Thanks for watching
Thanks for this video. As a former owner of certificated aircraft and now looking at 103, this is really helpful to me to think about costs. +++
I'm glad it was helpful! More to come!
Appreciate you honest review … what city / State is your hanger located ?
@@96815honolulu Tyler TX area
Great video thanks
Great information. Thank you for sharing.
@@MSki-z4e no problem! Thanks for watching
GREAT INFO THANKS FOR SHARING
I'm glad you found it helpful!
Is a great video nice done I watch videos always and you doing a good job
I have a aerolite 103 I haven’t fly it yet, a bunch of thing I got done
When over all the wiring, motor nuts, a put a mark on all the bolts so I know if they move, also replace the cable brackets for hydraulic ones
The stratus that you have can let you see other planes around you?..
I have a yeasu 850L I will like to put a external antenna like you did, great idea
How you connect your antenna? You have to used a connector?
@nvrqit9361 yes the stratus allows me to see them but not the other way around unfortunately! Yes you can order the cable through aircraft spruce.com and go to salvage yard and pull one off a GA aircraft they work so well!
Good video and very informative and no bs. I gladly comment because it is so refreshing. Hope you get an income soon. Hope you have clear skies to fly in.
@@Waynegilchrist-r2h thank you very much! 🙏
Good video, keep it up, 😉🇨🇦
Thank you I will! It's probably cold up there now so stay warm!
Great video. Keep em coming
@chrislovett6120 absolutely I will thanks for your support!
You're not cheap, you're frugal. Thanks for the cost analysis. I am sick of watching punks buying $100,000 dollar airplanes and then hoping their Patreon subscribers pick up the tab. I did subscribe and liked. Hope you make a killing doing this.
Exactly frugal is the word! Thank you for your support and I would just love to get by financially on my passion so that's my goal! Thank you so much for watching!
I had a Challenger 2 about 20 years ago and loved it. I got my Basic Flight Instructors endorsement for Ultralights so I was legal to take a passenger for instruction, normally my wife. She loved flying with me and we went a lot of places. I had a group of flying buddies, another Challenger 2 (some times on floats) 2 Rans, one Coyote 2 one Airle with Rotax 80 HP, a Sky raider single. we would gather and fly from place to place. Only sold the airplane when my wife's health started to take up all my time and it sat in the hanger for a year without me flying. I may get another one, once I clear up everything deferred while caring for till her death last year.
@danieldudzik6470 I'm sorry for your loss I bet she would want you to get back into that you love to do!
Good job, keep it up.
Thanks for watching!
Another great video, Wish I lived in the States, we dont have so many great channels here in Uk.
Come join us!
Great content! Keep up the good work.
Thanks for watching! I appreciate the support 🙏
I bought an Air Command Gyrocopter that came with a new set of Skywheel rotors, new rotor head, new 503 Rotax, many extras including new “pumper” carbs. I paid 9,000 for it and spent 17 months going completely through it to make sure everything was correct. Now, collectively and not counting labor (my hangar mate is A&P mech) I have roughly 14,000 into it and I replaced most gauges, made a new instrument panel, new pre rotator brackets, all new electric and fuel lines..
I’m going to fly this afternoon before the rain gets here tomorrow.
I fly part 103 FAA but in 98 received my PPL.
This is the least expensive way to fly (safely) in my opinion.
Is this maiden flight or have you been flying it already? How awesome!
Is the Challenger XL still available. Quad City Challenger web site doesn’t seem to have any action on it. Are they closed?
@JimDethardt you will have to look up Mike Harrison on Facebook and message him I don't know for sure! Last I heard the material cost had sky rocketed
I talked to Mike yesterday,they are still going
Enjoyed the straight talk!
Thanks for watching!
Cool videos man! I have a question. Could the challenger carry a Rotax 914 UL. And if so what do you think the difference in performance and fuel consumption be. And do you think a four stroke is more reliable than a two stroke. Thanks
@spyrosplomaritis2315 the largest I've heard of on challenger is Rotax 618 I believe with a large 4 stroke you would be to far Aft CG. Plus it would become a single seater just based on the weight! I think 2 stroke are very reliable as long as they are closely monitored! Every single flight I'm checking fuel lines filters plugs and just eye balling things! The other day I had a Cracked carb boot so it pays of to do a great pre flight!
@@TheJonjonj Great. Thanks for the in depth replay
@@spyrosplomaritis2315 any time!
You nailed it, gotta go experimental, certified is way too restricted and expensive. With experimental you can do your own engine overhauls and inspections if you're comfortable with that. I'm looking at 2 spot Sonex models, I like the full enclosure, looks, speed and fuel efficiency, second choice would be a challenger 2 but gotta have some speed. Great video!
@Mwa7368 hey thank you! Give challenger a shot 😆 you won't win any races but you will have fun doing it!
An excellent video. Very good. Keep up your good work.
Fraser.
I'm trying! Thank you
Enjoyed your video. feeding the algorithm.
Thank you so much!
I went from experimental to a Cherokee, then immediately back to experimental! The only way to go, in my opinion!
@@mhilderbrand7693 100% agreed! But you're better now with more models under your belt!
I have a belite ultracub kit, the old modified kitfox lite that I will be building some day. Part 103
great job on the video
Thank you for watching!
Hangars in south Florida are going for 1200 at FXE. I need to get out of here…
Wow that's crazy!
One thing I would kindly suggest is maybe a tripod (even if not every second) any percentage of the vid is better than 0%. It seems for some of us to have a motion sick inducing quality without. Just 2 cents, I could watch MORE of your vids that way 😁 Thanks for the info.
The second half of this video was on tripod! But I get it I will do better not moving the camera so crazy! Thanks for watching
Great education
@johnmulholland9471 Thanks for watching!
Wonderful content
@wisdomspitter7688 🙏 thank you thank you!
Congrats on starting an Inexpensive flying website, much Kudos. I agree, C172s are great, but several hundred $$$ per hour, make for not making GA affordable to most people with an interest. Also, I enjoyed that you covered ALL realistic costs, something you dont see often. Thank you so much for your thoughts on this subject, please continue your work along these lines.
@@FredDelgado-elunico I definitely will thank you so much for the support!