Idaho state-operated planes offer convenience and save cash
August 25, 2011, 04:33 pm
According to the Idaho reporter, the Idaho Transportation Department maintains and operates three state owned aircraft that in 2010 logged a total of 371 flight hours, a third of which were dedicated to the govenor's office. The most often used plane, a 1979 King Air, was donated to the state by the U.S. Army in 1997. The other two, smaller planes are used primarily in search and recovery missions typically involving downed aircraft.
As a former military aircraft, the King Air has special transportation capabilities and is used primarily in law enforcement and emergency operations. While the cost of maintenance and operation is significant in most cases, officials say the state-owned aircraft are cheaper, safer and more convenient in the long run, as charter planes require advanced planning and can be expensive. The news source found that chartering an aircraft such as the King Air could cost more than $1,100 per hour.
Pilots employed by the Division of Aeronautics are responsible for flying the state airplanes, in addition to performing airport inspections, conducting aviation classes and other duties. Both professional and recreational pilots should consider investing in pilot insurance. Though many forms of insurance have taken a hit in subscription rates with the onset of the economic downturn, the convenience afforded by pilots insurance gives pilots unique coverage for their unique lifestyle.
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