We picked up N777PB, a 1973 Beechcraft Bonanza A36, in March of 2021 and since then she has been living her best life. On this site, we'll document all her travels and experiences as they happen. In the immortal words of Ferris Bueller, "It’s so choice, If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up!".
My name is Christopher (Chris) Weldon, I currently hold a Commercial SEL, Instrument Rating. I started my flying adventure in 1995 getting a few lessons here and there in Mannheim Germany while I served in the US Army overseas.
When I left the Army in 1996, I moved my Wife and Daughter to Central Florida to pursue a career in aviation as a commercial pilot as the ultimate goal. January of 1998 I started school at ComAir Aviation Academy in Sanford FL (This Part 141 school has changed names over the years to Delta Aviation Academy, AeroSim, and currently L3 Harris Academy) to which I received my Private SEL and Instrument Rating.
Becoming a professional pilot has been a real challenge over the years as hiring in the industry was very sporadic to say the least. I had planned on continuing my training in 2001 when Sept. 11th, halted all movement on aviation career progression.
Since then, I pivoted to a life in the construction industry and currently own a Commercial Construction Company, Residential Speculative Construction Company and an Engineering Firm.
In 2019, I decided to finish what I had started and went back to Flight School at Epic Aviation Academy in New Smyrna Beach, FL. and received my Commercial SEL Ticket. I don't get to use my credentials, as I exclusively fly for work and pleasure under FAR Part 91.
After a life long obsession with the Beechcraft Bonanza A36, I finally was able to make the dream a reality. Just as Covid restrictions were easing up, I was on the hunt for the perfect aircraft. After a few disappointing interactions with aircraft on the market, I reached out to the Beechcraft Bonanza-- Owners, Pilots, and Enthusiasts Facebook Group. I posted a request if anyone knew of an A36 for sale as my frustrations were elevating. A very nice gentleman named Jim K. said "I have one, but it’s not on the market". So I inquired about the aircraft and asked him to send me a few photos.
I was on a ski trip with my wife and business partner and his wife in Pittsburgh when I received an email with the photos. I WAS IN LOVE. I showed my wife and she felt the same (Ok, maybe not the same, but she liked the photos).
When I got back from my ski trip, I planned a quick trip from Florida to Indiana to see this beautiful bird. On March 12th, 2021, we closed on the loan and I flew her home to her new living room at Deland Municipal Airport (KDED).
