SportFlying.aero

When does it make sense financially to rent rather than buy? The rule of thumb is: If you don't fly at least 100 hours a year—about two hours per weekend—ownership is more expensive than renting. Of course, much depends on what you're buying. If it's a brand-new aircraft, that number could be closer to 150 hours a year. On the other hand, the cost threshold for a simple sport plane could be 50 hours a year. The plane's cost, hangar or tie-down rent, insurance, and the fuel to take you flying are all factors in making the calculation.

When calculating how many hours you plan to fly each year, remember that in many locations you cannot fly year-round under VFR (visual flight rules). Clouds or fog can keep you on the ground for months. Snow on the ground won't stop you, but falling snow will—and you might need a sport plane with a heater to fly during some months. In other parts of the country, thunderstorms or high winds can ground you.

If you haven't already done so, calculate the costs of flying to determine what it will cost you to own and operate a plane, how often you will use it, and what you expect to use it for. Then you can make a more informed decision on whether to rent or buy.

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