Comanhe Longevity

[17031]

How long will we be able to fly our Comanches? Is there a point when a plane becomes permanently grounded?

[N3322G]

43 years and counting. It is a machine, any machine well maintained will last a long time. I have only the normal flying risks in flying my family and friends and neighbors in my Comanche. I expect it to outlast my flying abilities.

[9089P]

Hi

Just in case your question was about whether there is an Total Time limit on the airframe, ala some of the more recent plastic aircraft, the answer is "No".

Don

[Kristin Winter]

In fact, the Comanches may outlast a lot of newer aircraft. The Comanches were certified under CAR 3, which did not require that the manufacturer life limit the major airframe components. I know of Comanches and Twin Comanches that have over 10K hours. Frankly, I doubt that there is any realistic life on the airframe.

[17031]

Thanks, this is what I thought. The limiting factor then will be parts avaliabiltity, i.e. what happens when the current stash of parts is gone. Can new parts be designed and built? The FAA exersizes such tight control and is not very cooperative, will it be possible to design and make with new parts, not considering the cost?

[N3322G]

Tim,

The regulations permit owner-produced parts for private use. I have used this process successfully.