King Air 90 or Lear 24

[Oregonbythesea]

I am really new to this board and very happy to have found it. Although I haven't flown for almost 10 years, my financial picture is changing in a way that will allow me to pick up where I left off. My last plane was a Barron 55 and although it is a great plane, I want something that will fly higher and faster with more range. My concern is that I keep getting conflictling comments regarding a choice between flying a King Air 90 and a Lear 24. I would really like to see some comments to help me decide. Thanks

 

[Dizel8]

If your profile is correct,then I would go with the King Air. A good flying machine and relatively docile. The Lear 20 series are great airplanes, lots of fun but a hotrod, although not as bad as some say.

The King Air should be cheaper to operate, fuel burn certainly a lot lower as would overhaul cost be.

 

[787]

I agree, esp w/ Raytheon selling the c90GT w/ glass cockpit and 750SHP engines. Gives you the choice of speed or econo. BTW they don't call the 20 series Lear the widow maker for nothin'

 

[Oregonbythesea]

Thanks Dizel8. The cost factor can be eliminated. Would that change your mind? I realize that the King Air would be easier but, is the 24 really too much for a single pilot? 787, that is the part that bothers me also.

 

[banned username 2]

Thanks Dizel8. The cost factor can be eliminated. Would that change your mind? I realize that the King Air would be easier but, is the 24 really too much for a single pilot? 787, that is the part that bothers me also.

You can't fly any Lear's single pilot... Does that help with your decision?

 

[Dizel8]

As Falcon says, Lears are two pilot airplanes. If you really want a jet (why?) then perhaps a CitationJet or the old 500 SPs would work. Heck, the C-441 Conquest with Dash 10 engine gets moving pretty fast, I think 340KTS.

 

[Pugh]

Could always go with one of the new VLJs...faster than King Airs but single pilot.

 

[Oregonbythesea]

You're all correct and thanks for the input. I was not aware that the 24 wouldn't qualify for single pilot. Yes, it does make it easier. The King Air goes back on the computer as the screen saver. Besides, it will be easier to transition into the King Air than a jet anyway. One thing at a time. The VLJ is a good solution except for the price tag and waiting list. Maybe in a year or two that would work. Thanks all.

 

[Snakum]

One of our owners is now on the list for a VLJ, despite my boss showing that the numbers favored a late-model, low-time C500. Two-plus years till delivery, and growing weekly.

Of course ... that left seat might have MY name all over it, so I'm cool wid dat. imp:


Minh

 

[JimG]

I think before you get too deep into performance, cost, etc., or before you start kicking tires, I'd suggest you make a phone call to an insurance agent.

With 1200 hours, you may have trouble getting insured on a KingAir without someone in the right seat for the next year or two until you build a couple hundred hours in it.

I had the same number of hours as you do now when I transitioned up from a Bonanza into a C340 last year. The first year's premium cost an arm and a leg AND required a right seater to spend the first 50 hours with me.

 

[banned username 2]

The first year's premium cost an arm and a leg

WOW! How did you get a waiver to fly with only one arm and one leg??? :laugh: :nuts:

 

[Oregonbythesea]

Well, you have some real concerns there that I had to face when I went from a Warrior to the 320. It worked out well that time because I combined the multi rating with some additional long flights to get the 40 or so hours I needed. It didn't take all that long. As for the training this time, I think it will be done in either CA or FL at which time I will spend all the hours I can until I feel ready. By-the-way, I have a good friend that has only one arm and has a multi commercial and is planning an around the world flight in a C47. Oh yeah, Oregon took away his commercial drivers license for his job driving a log truck. I guess in their opinion it takes more to drive a truck than a multi engine aircraft.

 

[psysicx]

If you had to choose between a Lear,Falcon or a Citation what would be the best value for a light jet?

 

[JimG]

Well, you have some real concerns there that I had to face when I went from a Warrior to the 320. I

When I first started tire kicking twins, I originally wanted a T310R and was told I'd have no problem getting insurance on one and the prices quoted were relatively cheap.

BUT...when you're talking pressurized, for some reason underwriters start getting nervous.

You could regularly be up high with a mask on your face and they don't seem to get nervous, but blow up the compartment and watch what they do.

 

[dhc8fo]

Do you still have your Baron? If you do, are you going to sell it?

 

[Captain X]

Have you thought about a Cessna 441?

 

[Oregonbythesea]

I wish I did still have the Barron, it wouldn't go anyway if I did. Yes, I have looked at the 400 series but, I wanted something a little more comfortable and that is just about the best there is. At least, for now.

 

[FN FAL]

I wish I did still have the Barron, it wouldn't go anyway if I did. Yes, I have looked at the 400 series but, I wanted something a little more comfortable and that is just about the best there is. At least, for now.

Why not get a Pilatus PC 12? You'll save on operating costs and insurance.

 

[Oregonbythesea]

Cost, more than anything but, it is definitely something for anyone to look at who wants turbo props and safety all in one package. I would have to wait another year for that price range and of course, that is too long.

 

[Rick1128]

The KA is much easier to fly and is quite comparable to the Baron in handling. Yes, it will feel heavier, but similar. Stay as far away from MU2 as you can. If looking at a KA90, the later the better, C model or later is best. Considering you are in Oregon, correct?, an E model might be a consideration. Look at the preformance charts for some of your higher, normal airports for each. The C is usually lighter than the E also usually with a lower gross takeoff weight. So it is usually a match. But check anyway.

Personally in the KA90 size, I like the F model. A 90 fuse with 200 engines and wing. A real go getter. But is also handles much differently than the other 90 models.

If you go the KA90 route, give a great deal of consideration to professional training. FSI or Simcom both do KA90 training. Personally I prefer FSI. I have done both. It will help you on your insurance and you will have a much better understanding of your aircraft and your capabilities.

Good luck and have fun.