Hello BeechTalkers

My name is Norman and, yes, I'm human (nor some nasty bot). Well, as human as a person who would rather have air between himself and the ground can be... Oh! Right, entirely human. I'm kind of new to aviation but was bitten pretty hard after one of those 'Groupon introductory flights.' It turns out it was one of the most perfect GA flying days of the year and the CFI I did the flight with treated the whole thing as an introductory lesion: which I guess was the point. That was a few years ago now. For my part I'm oldish and relatively broke so flying affordability is more about hitching, begging, scrounging, pleading and project aircraft that might one day see some air again. I know. I have no shame when it comes to flying.

I've been looking for a while and, well, it's pretty hard to go past an old Beech. At this point in my project hunt I may have come across a perfect candidate - an old Debonair that fits my 6'3" and engineering skills. She needs some work but, just maybe she is a the candidate for a careful and loving restoration and (as appropriate) upgrade. I've got a couple of local flight buddies (and buddies of buddies) who have years and years of experience and certifications to help me sort through the problem children 'available for project' but came across BeechTalk and new I couldn't go wrong.

So, Hi. My names Norman and I think I love an debonair old thing.

Welcome to the group Norman and congratulations on your fine taste in aircraft!

Do know that the BeechTalk procurement committee is here 24/7 to help you spend your money.

Enjoy the ride.

We have.

Norman, Welcome... You've come to the right place if crazy airplane people is what you seek.

If you're looking to fly, then you need to buy/rent a flying airplane. Beechcraft are amazing aircraft, but there are many other candidates that will probably help you scratch your flying itch more cheaply than restoring a Debonair. If you are looking for a project to save money, you're looking at it a bit backward. If you love working on things, have tons of spare time, and know an A&P willing to look over your shoulder, then a project Deb may very well suit you and your situation.

Where are you located, and what are you hoping to do with whatever set of wings you find?

Thanks Robert. I've always preferred to help others spend their money but hey if you help me find it you can help me spend it.

Hello Norman, welcome! From what part of the country do you come?

Hey Norman,

Glad you're here! ..and its a great place to fill in the blanks on a wide variety of plane related (mostly) adventures...

My wife does the Groupon thing regularly. She never told me about flying though...had to find it myself.

Nice welcome everyone.

In answer to a couple of questions...

I'm from Oz originally (an Aussie). I grew up in the space industry: Born on a rocket range (Woomera 1960), Mom was a mathematician and dad was an electrical engineer. I've been in the US for nearly 16 years and in the mid west for the last 14.

I'm a guy who loves projects, engineering and problem solving - I'm not expecting the project to solve the flying itch in the short term (or medium term, and not expecting a project plane to be "cheep"). It's more 'time on my hands' and, well, I think its a pretty plane, affordable (for me), suits most of my needs\desires for utility etc.

Well said Steve. Another way I heard it when shopping was to expect to get every upgrade at half price if I bought an airplane that already had that gizmo, system, or paint job. I have found that to be true. I thought I was fine with vintage instruments, but unreliability coupled with the relative capabilities of the new stuff, and in some cases mandates, has me spending more in the long run. DIY (supervised) upgrade offers less discount than buying same with original purchase, but I find it enjoyable.

As a mentor I have gladly helped introduce pilots to Beech with a flight in the Nashville area. You should do a mentor search in your area, somebody would probably do the same
for you. Welcome!

Welcome, Norman. You have a really interesting background! Stick around a while- both you and the group will both be the better for it.

Most of us here, especially myself, do love pictures of most everything related to aviation... (hint, hint ).

Welcome, Norman!



http://youtu.be/wlMegqgGORY

Coordinate!

Best wishes in your search!

Doc

Freudian slip or just autocorrect?

in response to the wits,

1) No, I'm not an android (but funny none the less)
and,
2) I believe it's a Freudian wit - the lesson became a lesion causing, causing loss and longing.

Welcome to BT Norman, the right plane for you is out there somewhere. Seems like you have things pretty well sorted.