Well, I am back in the "need a different airplane" kick..
Been looking around a little bit and am reconsidering the Yak 52.. I've got a handful of time in them, but sm not hugely familiar with their operating costs in terms of yearly costs..
Anyone own or operate one enough to have an idea? Just starting the serious research again and thought I'd start here..
I fly the CJ-6A, which is somewhat similar to the Yak-52.. though not the same.
I can give you the information of many Yak guys that we fly with. The -52 is a great airplane, personally would prefer the -52TW. The M-14 is a good engine, fairly cheap to maintain. The Yak-52 will burn a little more gas than the CJ, and has a slightly lower cruise speed, and feels a little smaller in the cockpit.
The biggest differences you probably already know, the pneumatic system, as well as opposite P-factor/Torque, etc. It's a great airplane to fly.. the Yak is IMHO a lot more aerobatic than the CJ, but the CJ feels more stable overall. The biggest problem most new pilots (to the airplane) have is the whole brake on the stick (pnuematic) with no toe-brakes... just rudder deflection (brake differential). The nose wheel is a free castor.
Any specific questions, let me know
As for operating costs - The CJ with fuel, overhaul reserve, etc will run about $90/hr for a high figure. I usually figure on around 17-18gph for light acro/cruise-ish stuff. The mx is very easy though... putting a new cylinder on can be done pretty easily. Red Star Pilot's association is very helpful with specific figures
