1st plane

[jw1441]

I am a beginner pilot- no private license yet.

I want a plane for monthly trips of 150 miles and will take longer trips ie 400 miles every other month.

Any thoughts re Cessna 172 versus Cessna 182 versus Piper Archer? Several people have said the 182 is too much plane for a beginner, therfore dangerous. Other friends said "you will hate a 172 with a 40mph headwind" therefore buy a 182 or equivalent.

 

[Jim Logajan]

thank you

my budget is about 80k

I will not be hauling much - me and wife with 2 suitcases at most

I don't see me ever needing to fly in inclement weather, but would like to be able to fly in clouds.

I live in Kansas- the farthest I would want to fly regularly is about 400 naut miles.

You don't need to spend the full 80k to accomplish your goals. A 182 carries way more than you need; a 172 appears to be a better fit for the distance and load. I don't think you'll find a big time savings, particularly if most trips are 150 NM.

If you really think you need the speed, consider a used RV-6A, 7A, or 9A. Plenty fast and just right for 2 people and a couple bags. A 182 within your budget would be slower than any of those RVs - it would haul more than you need, though.