Any experience with trainer jets?
 

I am somewhat in the market for an old trainer jet. Most likely narrowed down between a BAC Jet Provost and a Fouga Magister. L-39 but I would rather have one of the others. I am hoping to own it for a year or two and fly maybe 50 hours per year. I know there is a good school to get the type out in Santa Fe.

Does anyone have experience in owning and/or operating one of these jets or knows of anyone looking to sell? I would prefer a partnership if the location and numbers made sense.

Thanks for any info,

Fat Old Tired

Maybe with your current financial situation it would be a good idea to put off buying a jet for a little while. But it’s your life, do whatever you want.

”I can't even afford getting a little cup of coffee from starbucks anymore without really feeling the pinch each month. Can't pay my bills anymore because the utlities have gone up so much. The 16% to retirement isn't even close to what I'll need.”

There was a guy at Frontier who owned a Siai Marchetti S211 for a while. I think they look cooler than either of the two you mentioned. I have no idea how the operating costs compare or how available they are. Just another to consider.

Is the extra testosterone you're getting kicking in, and you want to pretend you're Maverick?

I vividly remember Fouga jets from my airshow days as a teen. Cool looking bird. There was also a local guy that had a T-33. That seemed like a nice airplane.

I think you’re underestimating the maintenance required to continue to fly those old birds and finding someone reliable that can work on them.
Also 50hrs/year seems painfully little to stay proficient in something that archaic.
These come with hot seats?

F/O/T- Weren't you planning to be furloughed last week? Recession and all?

For the benefit of anybody who, unlike the OP, might actually be in a position to acquire such an aircraft...

I wouldn't do it unless you have mil fighter/trainer time. Or turbojet time and a LOT of piston aerobatic experience.

Otherwise you're just asking to die soon.

Ask Larry, he’s one of the very few FAA designees on the L-39 in KSAF:
L-39 Albatros (Albatross) Jetwarbird Training Center | Jet Warbird Training

I’ll take the MIG thank you :D