Looking for feedback on starting a Decathlon Flying Club

captainvanover

New member
Joined
Sep 27, 2026
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2
Location
Roanoke Texas
Hey everyone! Looking for some feedback from folks who have done something similar.

My partner and I are planning to buy a Decathlon early next year and start a small flying club in North Texas. Based on insurance limits, we're looking at a total of 6 pilots—the 2 of us as co-owners plus 4 non-equity club members.

Our initial cost structure idea:
  • Monthly Dues: $300/month per member (the goal is to have the 4 members cover our fixed costs—specifically the hangar, insurance, and an estimated $1,500–$3,000 annual inspection)
  • Hourly Rate: $60/hr dry (intended to cover the engine overhaul reserve and unscheduled maintenance)
For anyone who’s run or participated in a small aerobatic/tailwheel club setup like this:
  1. Does this rate structure seem reasonable and realistic?
  2. How hard was it to get insurance approval for non-equity members flying a Decathlon?
 
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