Anuual operating cost of a C172?

Question

If I was to own a 172, what would be the approximate annual operating cost? Let's assume that the engine was just overhauled and wouldn't need another major overhaul for 1800 hrs. Maybe like prices of tiedown fees and oil changes, top overhauls, and anything else you can think of that would be pertinent, assuming that the airplane wouldn't need any surprise maintenance.

Answer 1

First of all, I guarantee it will need surprise maintenance. Secondly, you don't say how much you'll be flying. There are fixed costs and variable costs and the total varies widely. Generally speaking though, unless you fly a ton of hours it doesn't make sense to own unless you just plain want one.

I've been married twice, owned sailboats and airplanes. From now on I pay attention to these three "Fs" when considering financial decisions.

If it flies, floats or fvcks,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,...

RENT IT

Answer 2

I agree completely with John, remember the 3 "F's"

Answer 3

The one thing you left out is the annual flying time. Very important. The more you fly the less (per hour) it will cost, per se'.

Normally you will able to achieve (or close to it) your TBO if it's flown daily for several hours.

If you only fly a few days a month your chances of going to Max. TBO would be rare thereby increasing you costs

Answer 4

it costs me 6,000 canadian dollars annually to keep, fly and store my cessna 172.

then again, thats my fixed rate since i fly for the royal canadian air cadets.

Answer 5

ASSUME the airplane is worth $50k

Fixed yearly costs are (ABOUT):

Insurance: $1200

Annual: $2000

Tiedown/hanger $1200/$3000 or more

Cost of Capital $2500 (you would get 5% in a savings account)

About $6900/yr

Marginal Costs (Per Hour)

Engine reserve $10

Fuel ($4 * 10) $40

Oil $3

Maint $20

PLUS about $73 per flying hour

So there you have it (in the US).  About $73 per hour + the total fixed cost divided by the number of hours per year.  AND, it will likely cost more than that estimate.