Tag: Small Aircraft Tugs

Forbes Evaluates the Cost of Ownership of Small Aircraft

Forbes Evaluates the Cost of Ownership of Small Aircraft
Forbes Evaluates the Cost of Ownership of Small Aircraft

There are many factors that affect the cost of ownership of small aircraft. That is why a lot of aviation enthusiasts opt to rent small aircraft instead of taking on the many expenses that come with owning their own plane.

Airplane hangar owners and airport managers can significantly reduce their operating expenses with efficient solutions like an aircraft caddy from DJ Products. These battery-powered tugs can operate on pavement, grass, and even ice. They allow one person to smoothly move small planes quietly and safely.

What does it cost to own a small plane?

Forbes ran an article by a Quora contributor on the costs associated with owning small aircraft. The costs add up quickly and many expenses like insurance, annual inspections, hangar rental, and licensing fees are due annually.

Aircraft maintenance is costly, too. While some automobile owners may push their luck by skipping routine maintenance when money is tight, airplane owners don’t get that option. Knowledgeable pilots can save some money by doing a lot of the minor mechanical work themselves, but aircraft engines must be completely rebuilt or replaced eventually.

Also, aviation fuel costs much more than gas for automobiles and Single engine planes burn through 8 to 20 gallons per hour of flight.

Flying is a hobby fueled by passion

For many recreational pilots, flying is in their blood and their life feels incomplete without it. If you have a small airport with planes for rent, they will come.

We want to help your business operate efficiently and safely. Our passion is providing business owners like you with the best possible tuggers and aircraft movers available. Contact one of our knowledgeable and courteous sales engineers today to discuss which aircraft caddy is best for you.

Midair Small Craft Crash Causes Concern Near Historic Lighthouse

Small Aircraft
Small Aircraft Accident

In a tragic turn, three pilots died in an unusual small plane collision off the coast of Southern California earlier this month. After three days of searching, divers found two of the bodies, and with additional searching the third pilot and more wreckage were found two days later.

The crash occurred near Angels Gate Light, a lighthouse and a registered historic site in Los Angeles Harbor at the San Pedro Breakwater. Flight students often take off from the Torrance Airport and fly around the coastline in the area.

One of the pilots was Mary Falstrom, a 72-year-old woman flying alone. Her husband expressed a warm outlook that she died doing what she loved. The day of the crash she was piloting a Citabria stunt plane.

The other plane was a Beech 35 Bonanza piloted by two men, aged 61 and 81. Reports indicate that all pilots involved were fit and experienced.

Casting a pall over local aviation, the crash is a sad ending for the pilots and their families. Falstrom was involved in the Ninety-Nines organization of female pilots and volunteered at the aviation museum at the Torrance Airport.

DJ Products supports private aviation with our small aircraft tugs and other systems for moving planes and equipment. We are saddened by stories such as this one and we hope small aircraft operators stay safe and careful for every flight.

Follow the DJ Products blog to stay aware of the latest aviation news and learn about our small aircraft tugs and aviation equipment that can help keep everyone safe and productive around the hangar.