Hi all~

I'm a new pilot, just started my training this year, earned my PPL this summer 2020, and awaiting a checkride for my Instrument rating. Will jump right into Commercial training too. While this is thought to be a hobby, I haven't discounted the idea of trying to work for an airline in the future (if the cards play out right).

My mission is to get an affordable aircraft to travel around the states, potentially Canada and the Caribbean. I have time to travel, so want to take advantage of it. It's a bit problematic to borrow/rent an airplane for extended periods of time so thought it would be easier to get my own. During this process, I started complex training in a Piper Arrow. I do like the Arrow quite a bit although after researching more, I found the Bonanza 35 V-tail to be around the same price with a lot more speed.

One thing I noticed is that people in aviation are extremely opinionated and it can be challenging to get reliable information on a Piper or Beechcraft lets say in front of a group of Cessna pilots. So I'm here to learn more about Bonanza and potentially pulling the trigger to get one.

I have 25+ hours in Arrows and 400+ in a V35. The Bonanza is a significantly better travel airplane. I get 172 kts on 13 GPH, lean of peak, with an IO550 Bonanza. I got 120 kts on 10 gph in my Archer and 135 knots on 10 gph in the Arrow. The Bonanza has significantly more baggage room and more comfortable back seats. (S35 / 1965 and later).

The 6 cylinder Bonanza engine has more parts to maintain than the 4 cylinder Arrow and an overhaul will cost more. Lots of 3 blade props on Bonanzas which cost more than 2 blade props on Arrows. There is a step up in maintenance cost, but it shouldn’t be a shocking difference.

Many Bonanzas are very well cared for and upgraded. The Arrows I flew were flight school birds, airworthy but not anyone’s pride and joy. Get a good prebuy inspection, whatever you buy. On a V tail right now, the ruddervators deserve a very close look as replacements are hard to find.

Awesome! Where are you based? I'm at KIGQ
If you need a Beechcraft check out or any insurance check out, keep me in mind
TJ

Usually KPWK or KUGN. Do you have a Bonanza? I wouldn't mind getting some Bo time prior to buying.

Hi Michael and welcome. This is the right place for all kinds of information on Beech products. And I think you will be able to get some decent advice on other brands also.

Hi Michael, whatever you are going to buy, step 1 is to start calling now and getting on waiting lists for hangars at every airport remotely close to you.

Join the American Bonanza Society, numerous model specific ground school training programs free to all members.

After you join ABS ...

On the desktop version of this site, check out the Mentor link. Lots of Bonanza folks around you happy to show off their baby and talk your ear off.

You are here, good step. + 1 on joining ABS but also join the Piper type club (piper flyer...). That way you will have both groups giving you their best about their type. Then you will fly a Beech and you will know.