Jimaddis Posted September 5, 2011 Report Posted September 5, 2011 I'm new to this forum and am in the market for a well cared for used plane. Most of my time is in Piper products. I have a relative that owns a 201, and she loves it. However, she's 4'11" and I'm 6'3", 215. Most of my travels are regional from SW Florida. Spouse, 2 young girls 8, 9, rarely do we all fly together, wishful thinking. Most of my trips will be solo running from Fort Myers to West Palm and an occational trip north to Michigan. I'm a fan a speed but don't want to spend a fortune on high burn rate and maintenance. Looking for $100k or less, clean, garmin 430 or 530, nice auto pilot, newer engine and good paint/interior. Is this a pipe dream and/or does anyone have any thoughts? Jim Quote
HopePilot Posted September 5, 2011 Report Posted September 5, 2011 I'm not sure I understand the specific question? If you're wondering if you'll fit, of course, but go ahead and sit in your relative's plane. I'm amazed someone 4'11 can fly a Mooney. She must have some serious rudder extension pedals (I'm average height and I have 2" extensions). Mooneys are known for low fuel burn and maintenance. You can get a beautiful example of a 201 (early 80s) for around 100K with garmin and KAP 150 or similar autopilot. How much you spend, initially, and on maintenence, will depend on how carefully you select your plane. Do you have any particular questions? Quote
rbridges Posted September 5, 2011 Report Posted September 5, 2011 Jim, a mooney is probably one of the more economical planes to own in its class. You can get a nice plane for <$100K, but like anything else, you have to shop and look carefully. Many of the planes in this price range will be 30-40 years old, so maintenance will be key. Height is usually not an issue in a mooney. I have a C model, and it has 4 seats but you'll need to get an F or J model to fit anyone comfortably for extended periods in the back seat. Like HopePilot said, a mooney is known for being a fast fuel efficient plane. Quote
Parker_Woodruff Posted September 5, 2011 Report Posted September 5, 2011 Best advice is to go fly in one before making a size judgement. More than one pilot isnt flying a Mooney right now because of "expert" opinions that they're small, etc. The M20J will do everything you want on your budget. 9GPH for 150KTAS no problem when Lean of Peak. Quote
trey2398 Posted September 5, 2011 Report Posted September 5, 2011 If you're interested in a 79 201 w/ 430W, 396 w/ weather, 2900TT, 510SMOH, PM me your info and I'll get you in touch with the owner. Quote
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