I think what outweighs the op-expense in these planes is the wide variation in same-model AFs. You could get a 340 that you spend 200k to bring it up to spec, essentially doubling your cost.

Thatcher, I've run three 340s, a 414 and two 421s. Echoing and expanding on a few comments above:

- Systems are quite similar across all three types.

- Pressurization is essentially free, with no maintenance burden.

- Baggage space is a strong point on all three, with nose and wing lockers. Nose lockers are longer on the 414A/421C than on the straight 414/421B...and quite a bit larger than the 340's nose.

- The 340's electro-mechanical gear requires more care and repetitive maintenance than the hydraulic gear on the 414A/421C.

- Geared 421 engines require more TLC and maintenance than direct-drive engines on the 340 and 414, and are less tolerant of pilot inattention.

- A 340 will be a bit faster than a 414. A 421 will be faster yet, but the speed difference across all three is small.

- Insurance is a bit lower on the 340.

- My most expensive annual so far was $12k.

Happy to answer any specific questions you might have, or help in any way. Good luck.

-Ted

Point of information: there is no spar AD on the 340, 414 or 421

For our family of six (young kids) the 421 is barely big enough for long vacations. We usually bulk out (run out of space) before capacity.

2005-12-13 applies to the 414A does it not?

2005-12-13 applies to the 414A does it not?

Our typical mission is flights to and from Fayetteville, AR picking up college students and going to games. We usually have 2-4 people aboard but sometimes we do squeeze all 6 of us on. It's a 230 nm flight but it would be nice to have pressurization and the ability to get above some of the weather into smoother air. My father is the proprietary owner, I'm just the lucky guy who gets to fly it. We love the space of the 421C, the trailing link gear, and all the baggage space it comes with. The cost to operate one is just pretty high and the overhaul costs can be scary. A cabin class aircraft sure would be nice....

2005-12-13 applies to the 414A does it not?

1) speed is of little consequence
2) comfort/ease of loading is key

Considered a twin bo?
Would your father consider a partnership? Shouldn't be hard at spirit
Considered a Navajo?

But yeah 421 (b or c) would be an exceptional tool for that mission

My mother is very particular about the stability of the aircraft. She gets motion sickness easily. Although I have never flown in one, I hear a 421 is very stable and comfortable. The potty is also a plus even though it may not get that much use. A twin Bo for us just doesn't seem logical because it just doesn't do much more for us than our Bonanza currently does.

If you want stability consider the B (and a yaw damper). The tip tanks ride a little smoother due to shock absorption by the wing-end mass.

1) speed is of little consequence
2) comfort/ease of loading is key

Considered a twin bo?
Would your father consider a partnership? Shouldn't be hard at spirit
Considered a Navajo?

But yeah 421 (b or c) would be an exceptional tool for that mission

1) speed is of little consequence
2) comfort/ease of loading is key

Not sure how to figure that with same speed @ twice the fuel burn and all the calendar items. (Not to mention ramp fees)

Not sure how to figure that with same speed @ twice the fuel burn and all the calendar items. (Not to mention ramp fees)