The cost to fly a Piper Super Cub, based on 200 annual owner-operated hours, is approximately $516 per hour, totaling an annual budget of $103,217.
Understanding the expenses associated with flying a Piper Super Cub involves looking at both variable and fixed costs that contribute to its overall operation. These figures are typically based on owner-operated aircraft, not rental rates, and include various factors beyond just fuel.
Breakdown of Piper Super Cub Operating Costs
Operating a Piper Super Cub entails a combination of costs that accrue annually. These figures are calculated based on specific assumptions, including 200 hours of flight time per year and a fuel cost of $6 per gallon.
Here’s a detailed look at the financial commitment:
| Cost Category | Annual Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Variable Costs | $21,672 | Expenses that change with the amount of flying, such as fuel, oil, and routine maintenance. |
| Fixed Costs | $81,545 | Expenses that remain relatively constant regardless of flight hours, including insurance, hangar fees, annual inspections, and depreciation. |
| Total Annual Budget | $103,217 | The sum of all variable and fixed costs for 200 hours of operation. |
| Cost Per Hour | $516 | The total annual budget divided by 200 operating hours. |
What These Costs Include
When considering the cost of flying a Piper Super Cub, it's important to understand what these figures encompass:
- Fuel and Oil: These are primary variable costs, directly proportional to the number of hours flown. The example assumes a fuel price of $6 per gallon.
- Maintenance: This includes both routine maintenance (e.g., oil changes, 50-hour inspections) and unscheduled repairs that can arise.
- Insurance: Hull insurance (covering damage to the aircraft) and liability insurance (covering damage or injury to others) are significant fixed costs.
- Hangar or Tie-Down Fees: The cost of storing the aircraft, whether in a private hangar or tied down on an airfield.
- Annual Inspections: All aircraft are required to undergo a comprehensive annual inspection by a certified mechanic.
- Overhauls: Engine and propeller overhauls are major expenses that are typically amortized over their lifespan and contribute to the hourly cost.
- Miscellaneous: This can include navigation charts, database subscriptions for avionics, and landing fees.
It's crucial to note that these figures represent the costs for a Piper Super Cub specifically, and general "Piper Cub" models might have slightly different operating expenses depending on their age, condition, and specific variant.
