gblwy
Well Known Member
There was some comment on the engine mount thread about the number of upgraded parts on the RV12, and I guess the implied cost of these.
My plane is now just shy of 10 years since its first flight. The total maintenance cost per annum, averaged over the ten years is around $1600. This includes all replacement parts (for whatever reason) including shipping and taxes, all consumables, additional tools, labour, permits and licences as required in the UK. It also includes a complete repaint of the wings, a new radio (to comply with UK legislation) and numerous smaller improvements.
I compare this against a legacy aircraft, with an O-320, that I owned previously. It had similar performance to the RV12. That aircraft was maintained at "commercial" rates at a maintenance outfit on the same field, and cost four times as much to keep airworthy. It also cost three times as much in fuel costs.
Overall, I think that is a bargain, so I try to take a longer term view when Vans announce an expensive replacement part ;-)
My plane is now just shy of 10 years since its first flight. The total maintenance cost per annum, averaged over the ten years is around $1600. This includes all replacement parts (for whatever reason) including shipping and taxes, all consumables, additional tools, labour, permits and licences as required in the UK. It also includes a complete repaint of the wings, a new radio (to comply with UK legislation) and numerous smaller improvements.
I compare this against a legacy aircraft, with an O-320, that I owned previously. It had similar performance to the RV12. That aircraft was maintained at "commercial" rates at a maintenance outfit on the same field, and cost four times as much to keep airworthy. It also cost three times as much in fuel costs.
Overall, I think that is a bargain, so I try to take a longer term view when Vans announce an expensive replacement part ;-)
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