Flying Clubs: A Path to Affordable Flying
Discover how aircraft clubs can provide access to multiple aircraft at a fraction of ownership costs.
What is an Aircraft Flying Club?
A flying club is a membership organization that owns one or more aircraft and rents them to members at discounted rates. Members share ownership costs including purchase, insurance, maintenance, and hangar rent.
Club Ownership vs Personal
Cessna 172 Club Rates
Typically $50-$85 per flight hour
Personal Ownership Cost
~$100-$150 per flight hour all-in
Club Benefits
- ✓ No down payment
- ✓ No long-term commitment
- ✓ Multiple aircraft access
- ✓ Shared maintenance
- ✓ Lower hourly rates
Types of Flying Clubs
Traditional Non-Profit Clubs
Member-owned organization. Members elect board, make decisions. Lowest hourly rates but require time commitment.
Typical Join Fee$500-$3,000
Monthly Minimum$50-$200
For-Profit Club Services
Commercial operation. Professional management but higher rates. No governance responsibility.
Typical Join Fee$0-$1,000
Monthly Minimum$100-$400
Cost Comparison
| Cost Category | Club Membership | Aircraft Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fixed Costs | $1,200-$3,600 | $15,000-$25,000 |
| Hourly Rate | $50-$85 | $100-$150 |
| Annual Cost (100 hours) | $6,200-$11,600 | $25,000-$40,000 |
Is a Flying Club Right for You?
JOIN A CLUB IF:
- You fly 50-150 hours annually
- You want flexibility
- You like multiple aircraft
- You avoid maintenance
- You're budget-conscious
BUY OWN AIRCRAFT IF:
- You fly 200+ hours annually
- You want specific aircraft
- You need guaranteed availability
- You want long-term investment
- You enjoy maintenance/ownership
Finding a Flying Club
- Check with your local EAA chapter
- Visit your nearest airport FBO
- Search online for clubs in your area
- Ask at your flight training location
- Interview multiple clubs before joining
Ready to Own Your Own Aircraft?
If you fly more than what a club offers, we can help finance your own aircraft.