Intro / Looking for O2

[AB6]

Hello all,

Thank you for allowing me to join the community!

I've been flying for about 15 years and a recent ATP. I spent years flying my Piper Cherokee and had to let it go about a year ago. Since then, I have been debating possible replacements and have come to love the 337. Granted, I have zero time in any.

My dad is a retired airline guy and flew the O-2 in the Air Force in the 1970's. He's not looking to fly anymore, but we both agreed it would be a very fun project to share together and fly together. With that said, I realize an O-2 is not something you can just buy. Over the past year, I've seen maybe 1 or 2 O-2's listed for sale but never pulled the trigger as I haven't sought out any professional advice at this point. I understand the woes of airplane ownership, but just not owning a 337/O2 and am hoping to pick the forums brains about the pros/cons, tips and advice.

Part of me believes it may be more feasible to find a 337 first, gain experience on the platform before going in on an original O-2. I am open to all advice and also, if anybody in the north Texas area possibly has leads on where one may be able to sit right seat in a Skymaster for a "discovery flight" I'm all ears.

Cheers