A new program just launched by Fly History LLC is designed to give pilots the ability to train, qualify and then have solo flying-club-like access to T-6 Texan, T-34 Mentor and PT-17 aircraft. The company is currently filling slots for 20 charter members at each of six locations, nationwide. The fees paid by members will vary by location — Fly History is currently setting up shop in Boston, Westchester (N.Y.), Dallas, Los Angeles, Orlando, and Atlanta. As an example, Boston will require dues of $1380 per month plus $165 per hour dry for all aircraft but the T6, which goes for $275 per hour, dry. Charter members will lay out the full year’s dues in advance to be held in escrow until 20 positions are filled at their location and the aircraft are on the flight line. Training requirements have been worked out with an insurer and there are minimum total time requirements for applicants, beginning at 500 hours for T-34 pilot aspirants and topping off at 1000 hours for AT-6 aspirants. Those who want to fly the PT-17 need a tailwheel endorsement plus 300 PT-17 landings (although lower limits may apply for experienced tailwheel drivers). … And the Stearman aircraft will be rotated to Fly History’s warmer locations as winter closes in.
Like an exclusive flying club, membership and hourly rates are to be fixed and cover maintenance, insurance and operational costs. After the first year, members take on month-to-month flexibility and may withdraw from the program “without financial penalties and hassles of selling an aircraft,” according to the company. Qualified members will be able to use the aircraft for both training and pleasure trips and a 5:1 member to aircraft ratio (one PT-17, two Mentors, and One T-6 at each location) should keep scheduling conflicts to a minimum. Fly History claims it program is capable of saving you “up to $35,000 per year” … when compared with sole ownership of a T-6.
