Combo Deals -- Do they work?

[Jay Honeck]

Opinions, please!

(No one on Usenet has any of *those*, right? :-)

We're considering putting together a combo deal with a couple of other local
airport businesses, along the following lines:

1. Come to Iowa City and stay the weekend in one of our aviation themed
jacuzzi suites...
2. While you're here do your BFR with _________, a local CFII...
3. While you're here, have your aircraft annualed by ___________, a local
shop with 40 years experience...
4. Any other suggestions? Tickets to a football game? Dinner at the Old
Capitol Brew Works?

Of course the package price would be very attractive -- much less than
normal.

I've seen these kinds of things for "Overnight IFR Training" and "Weekend
Ground Schools" -- but do they work? Anyone ever done anything like this
before?

Would you feel comfortable having a strange shop annual your plane? (Or is
that actually a selling point, having "new eyes" check things over?)

I've talked to a couple of CFIs, and my favorite shop, and they're
interested in trying it -- but I don't want to waste their money if the
consensus here is that it's a dumb idea...

Thanks!
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Martin Hotze]

On Sun, 25 Sep 2005 13:03:27 GMT, Jay Honeck wrote:

>We're considering putting together a combo deal with a couple of other local
>airport businesses, along the following lines:
>
>1. Come to Iowa City and stay the weekend in one of our aviation themed
>jacuzzi suites...
>2. While you're here do your BFR with _________, a local CFII...
>3. While you're here, have your aircraft annualed by ___________, a local
>shop with 40 years experience...
>4. Any other suggestions? Tickets to a football game? Dinner at the Old
>Capitol Brew Works?

it seems that you have great rooms; how about some ... uuhmm ... 'other'
amenities?

>Of course the package price would be very attractive -- much less than
>normal.

I am no friend of combos. but this is only me. I shop around and pick what
suits me best. But there might be a chance to bundle up. there might be no
reason for you to combo with football tickets, because you're booked out
anyway. You need to find combos that fills your rooms during off season.

>I've talked to a couple of CFIs, and my favorite shop, and they're
>interested in trying it -- but I don't want to waste their money if the
>consensus here is that it's a dumb idea...

Maybe something romantic or so. Theater/concert/... tickets, a dinner, a
suite and a limo.

>Thanks!

#m
--
Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists.
<http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2001/09/20010920-8.html>

[George Patterson]

Jay Honeck wrote:

> Opinions, please!

All of your ideas sound good except the annual inspection. I, for one, would
never do that if I felt there was any chance that the IA might find something
that would keep the plane in the shop and extend my visit. The single exception
to that would be if the shop had a reputation for special experience with my
brand of aircraft; for example, I once considered flying the Maule down to
Moultrie and having the annual done by Maule Flight.

On the other hand, all it would cost you to try it is a bit of advertising
expense, right?

As far as a training package goes, there are two types that might be big
winners. One would be a basic package slanted towards overseas customers like
some of the Florida schools do. I don't know how practical that would be for
you, but the way the Florida schools do it, someone from, say, Britain comes
over, stays a month or two, and goes back home with a fresh PPC. IIUC, at least
one of those schools can provide an international or British license, rather
than just an FAA certificate.

The other would be the sort of cram course which you describe. At one time, I
would've been very interested in a package that could've gotten me past the IFR
written in a long weekend. Doing it away from home would have been attractive,
since my employer at the time would call you up and keep you working if you
stayed at home.

George Patterson
Give a person a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a person to
use the Internet and he won't bother you for weeks.

[N93332]

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:zexZe.366651$_o.277188@attbi_s71...
> Opinions, please!
>
> (No one on Usenet has any of *those*, right? :-)
>
> We're considering putting together a combo deal with a couple of other
> local airport businesses, along the following lines:

The combo deals you listed sound good.

How about putting ads in the Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Quad Cities, etc.,
newspapers with reduced room rates if an intro flight is taken? Guests can
take an intro flight either at IOW or bring a coupon saying they took one
recently someplace for the discount. Say if a room is $75/night without a
intro flight or $65 w/intro flight included, I would take the intro flight
just for the discount. It seems like most places I've seen the 'Learn to
fly' signs are at airports, which isn't seen much by the general public.

As far as getting current pilots into your place, how about advertising in
IA Wings, Midwest Flyer, etc?

Have you tried contacting the Des Moines FSDO, FOD FSS, Collins, etc., to
see if they would be willing to give a seminar or something at your place
during a non-football weekend?

-Greg B.

[Kyle Boatright]

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:zexZe.366651$_o.277188@attbi_s71...
> Opinions, please!


1) I'd be hesitant to take my plane to somewhere far, far away for annual.
Let's say there is something that renders the aircraft unflyable, and it
can't be fixed for a couple of weeks. This means I have to find
transportation home and transportation back to Iowa City to get the airplane
when it is repaired. Beyond that, I really, really want to eyeball any
problems identified by the IA. Also, I want to have enough face to face
time with the IA to make sure he's doing an annual, not restoring my
airplane to like new condition.

2) Find someone with a taildragger. Create a "taildragger pilot in a
weekend" package. Tailwheel instruction is becoming very hard to find (at
least in North Georgia) these days. Especially if you don't want to pay
$175/hr.

3) I'm not a big fan of combo deals. Usually, whoever puts 'em together
scrimps in an area where I'd spend, and spends in an area where I'd scrimp.
I tend to do better when I put together the whole enchilada.

KB

[Nathan Young]

On Sun, 25 Sep 2005 13:03:27 GMT, "Jay Honeck"
> wrote:

>Opinions, please!
>
>(No one on Usenet has any of *those*, right? :-)
>
>We're considering putting together a combo deal with a couple of other local
>airport businesses, along the following lines:
<snip>
>3. While you're here, have your aircraft annualed by ___________, a local
>shop with 40 years experience...

>Would you feel comfortable having a strange shop annual your plane? (Or is
>that actually a selling point, having "new eyes" check things over?)
<snip>

A combo deal might be a good idea, but not on an open-ended (schedule)
item like an annual inspection. What if damage requiring extensive
repair (ie corrosion or engine work) is found?

Also, I would not let a strange shop annual my plane. I am very
comfortable with the work my shop does and would not want to mess with
that.

[Blanche]

George's idea of offering to non-US pilots is very attractive. I'd
also recommend it as a stop-over for people doing those "see the USA"
type trips. Iowa City (and Iowa in general) is a nice, middle-of-the-
country stopping place.

As for the annual - sorry, not me. I must agree with (George?, other?)
not wanting to be grounded for some period of time NOT AT HOME due
to airworthiness issues.

But I do love the BFR concept!

[Mike W.]

How about aircraft care items that are more basic. Oil change, or get your
plane detailed and waxed while you relax? Little stuff, like tire pressure,
clean the glass, etc. That way it's way more likely to be ready when you are
ready to go.

"Nathan Young" > wrote in message
...
> On Sun, 25 Sep 2005 13:03:27 GMT, "Jay Honeck"
> > wrote:
>
> >Opinions, please!
> >

> A combo deal might be a good idea, but not on an open-ended (schedule)
> item like an annual inspection. What if damage requiring extensive
> repair (ie corrosion or engine work) is found?
>
> Also, I would not let a strange shop annual my plane. I am very
> comfortable with the work my shop does and would not want to mess with
> that.
>
>

[Martin Hotze]

On Sun, 25 Sep 2005 14:44:42 GMT, George Patterson wrote:

>I don't know how practical that would be for
>you, but the way the Florida schools do it, someone from, say, Britain comes
>over, stays a month or two, and goes back home with a fresh PPC. IIUC, at least
>one of those schools can provide an international or British license, rather
>than just an FAA certificate.

training or courses in the US for a foreigner aren't that sought after any
longer; the hassle with US bureaucracy might beor is too high [1]. Hour
building is a different story, but therefore I need more than an airport
(scenery) and more than one motel.

[1] small examples: first they haven't allowed to send the passport via
registered mail, only regular mail was accepted (idiots!); then you have to
show up in person for their visa. la-la-la ... other countries have
airports, too (Hello Canada, SA, OZ, ...!).

#m

--
Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists.
<http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2001/09/20010920-8.html>

[Martin Hotze]

On 25 Sep 2005 16:08:58 GMT, Blanche wrote:

>George's idea of offering to non-US pilots is very attractive.

ever asked foreign pilots about this?
how many renters are on site? if you don't have at least 3 renters within a
2 or 3 hours driving distance (or even less), you lost. Do you have a
reasonable connection to one of the big hubs to bring in the foreigners?
Atlanta? Chicago? Detroit? NY? (to name a few).

what are good arguments for this area? weather? area (restriced airspace)?
scenery?

>I'd
>also recommend it as a stop-over for people doing those "see the USA"
>type trips. Iowa City (and Iowa in general) is a nice, middle-of-the-
>country stopping place.

Not knowing anything about Jay and his hotel it would never come to my mind
to point the nose of an aircraft to Iowa City. Knowing Jay I really must
have some spare time to do it.

#m

--
Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists.
<http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2001/09/20010920-8.html>

[john smith]

> Do you have a reasonable connection to one of the big hubs
> to bring in the foreigners?
> Atlanta? Chicago? Detroit? NY? (to name a few).

Now you have hit on one of Iowa's biggest problems... lack of commercial
air service.

[N93332]

"Mike W." > wrote in message
...
> How about aircraft care items that are more basic. Oil change, or get your
> plane detailed and waxed while you relax? Little stuff, like tire
> pressure,
> clean the glass, etc. That way it's way more likely to be ready when you
> are
> ready to go.

Or plugs cleaned and gapped by Jay...

;-)

[Chris]

"George Patterson" > wrote in message
news:uJyZe.1922$%L4.1777@trndny02...
> Jay Honeck wrote:
>
>> Opinions, please!
>
> All of your ideas sound good except the annual inspection. I, for one,
> would never do that if I felt there was any chance that the IA might find
> something that would keep the plane in the shop and extend my visit. The
> single exception to that would be if the shop had a reputation for special
> experience with my brand of aircraft; for example, I once considered
> flying the Maule down to Moultrie and having the annual done by Maule
> Flight.
>
> On the other hand, all it would cost you to try it is a bit of advertising
> expense, right?
>
> As far as a training package goes, there are two types that might be big
> winners. One would be a basic package slanted towards overseas customers
> like some of the Florida schools do. I don't know how practical that would
> be for you, but the way the Florida schools do it, someone from, say,
> Britain comes over, stays a month or two, and goes back home with a fresh
> PPC. IIUC, at least one of those schools can provide an international or
> British license, rather than just an FAA certificate.

First there is the Issue of M1 visas, not to mention the TSA. The Florida
schools are usually both FAA and JAA approved and it would be a dumb thing
to only get an FAA certificate when you can pick up a JAR one at the same
time.

If you are looking at foreign pilots without an FAA certificate then a
package which helps then get the FAA certificate (home licence verification
and a trip to the nominated FSDO) along with a BFR and access to a decent
plane to rent might do the trick. In other words make it easy to fly!

There are some foreign pilots who might like to visit other parts of the US
even Iowa. As someone who has flown from Wisconsin to both the east and
west coasts and back that means I know of one, me.
Trip one was September 2004 to the west and trip two was July 2005 to the
east.
Trip three has to be north to south, Wisconsin to Florida and back maybe
July 2006 or it could be along the Canadian border to Seattle or a run
around the Prairie lands (seems a bit dull that) or down into Texas (even
duller).

Personally I have managed to land in 20 different states so far which for an
alien is not too bad. The most memorable fields, Sedona and Everglade City;
the most forgettable, Walla Walla (still not sure which state that was in)
and Worthington, Minnesota.

All it needs is some imagination.

[Jay Honeck]

> Now you have hit on one of Iowa's biggest problems... lack of commercial
> air service.

Nah, that's Iowa City's problem.

Iowa is (unfortunately for our airport, which had commercial service long
before any of them) amply served by commercial service into Cedar Rapids,
Des Moines, and Moline (Quad Cities)...
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Jay Honeck]

> How about putting ads in the Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Quad Cities, etc.,
> newspapers with reduced room rates if an intro flight is taken? Guests
> can take an intro flight either at IOW or bring a coupon saying they took
> one recently someplace for the discount. Say if a room is $75/night
> without a intro flight or $65 w/intro flight included, I would take the
> intro flight just for the discount.

I personally think that's a great idea, but our local FBO is not keen on
teaching people to fly. For them it's, at best, a break-even business
venture -- or, at least, that's what they like to tell us.

We *do* offer 30 minute flights for up to 3 people for just $75 bucks
through them, which is a GREAT deal nowadays. (It was $60, until the latest
gas price run-up...)
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Jay Honeck]

> 2) Find someone with a taildragger. Create a "taildragger pilot in a
> weekend" package. Tailwheel instruction is becoming very hard to find

That's a great idea!

Thanks...
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Jay Honeck]

> Or plugs cleaned and gapped by Jay...
>
> ;-)


NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooooooooooo....

:-)
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[N93332]

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:7KDZe.162734$084.29865@attbi_s22...
>> 2) Find someone with a taildragger. Create a "taildragger pilot in a
>> weekend" package. Tailwheel instruction is becoming very hard to find
>
> That's a great idea!

Besides taildragger, how about HP, complex or other endorsement
opportunities over a weekend? Also set up 'Wings weekends' that pilots
could work on the 3 flight hours for the Wings programs with discounts on a
room and CFI.

[john smith]

> Besides taildragger, how about HP, complex or other endorsement
> opportunities over a weekend? Also set up 'Wings weekends' that pilots
> could work on the 3 flight hours for the Wings programs with discounts on a
> room and CFI.

1. I agree, a WINGS WEEKEND program is a good draw for one weekend.
2. State maintenance weekend in collaboration with your local FSDO.
Bring in A&P's, A/I's, manufactureres, vendors, FAA, state aviation
officials. Two days for mechs to get recurrent training credit and
update on the latest rules, regs, SB's, etc. One day set aside for
pilots to attend maintenance seminars.
3. State aviation officials/airport managers conference.

[Mike W.]

Don't forget to anneal those copper rings, Jay.


"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:4LDZe.162735$084.137109@attbi_s22...
> > Or plugs cleaned and gapped by Jay...
> >
> > ;-)
>
>
> NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooooooooooo....
>
> :-)
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>
>

[Kyle Boatright]

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:uJDZe.402545$xm3.398599@attbi_s21...
>> How about putting ads in the Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Quad Cities, etc.,
>> newspapers with reduced room rates if an intro flight is taken? Guests
>> can take an intro flight either at IOW or bring a coupon saying they took
>> one recently someplace for the discount. Say if a room is $75/night
>> without a intro flight or $65 w/intro flight included, I would take the
>> intro flight just for the discount.
>
> I personally think that's a great idea, but our local FBO is not keen on
> teaching people to fly. For them it's, at best, a break-even business
> venture -- or, at least, that's what they like to tell us.

Your local FBO, and mine, and all the others are going to be sucking serious
wind in 10 years, maybe less because they are not turning over every rock in
sight trying to find and train new pilots. Once all the old guys (no slight
here, but the aviation crowd is a very old demographic) stop flying, the GA
market is going to contract in a huge way, and the sales of fuel,
accessories, airplane rental, and everything else is going to drop like a
rock.

The odd thing is that the FBO's don't seem to realize that they are cutting
their own throats when they don't recruit new pilots and/or when they try to
do anything more than break even on student pilots. In many businesses,
there is a loss leader which is used to get the consumer in the door, with
the next step being to upgrade that customer to something more profitable.
Our FBO's need to adopt the same principle, and forget profiting on PPSEL
students. Once folks are pilots, that's when the FBO's stand a chance to
make money in rentals, rating upgrades, fuel, etc.

My home FBO, for instance sold its fleet of C-152's ($42/hr) a few years ago
and replaced them with C-172's ($75 - $120/hr, depending on the airplane).
Simulataneously, they upped their primary training instructor rate from
$21/hr to $35/hr. That took the cost of dual instruction from ~$65/hr wet
to ~$110/hr wet, even in the FBO's doggiest C-172. For the student who only
needed 20 dual hours and 20 solo hours to "graduate", those changes added
~$1,600 to the cost of getting a PPSEL.

> We *do* offer 30 minute flights for up to 3 people for just $75 bucks
> through them, which is a GREAT deal nowadays. (It was $60, until the
> latest gas price run-up...)
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>

[john smith]

What Jim Burns said, plus....

Glass Cockpit ground school!!!
G-1000
and
Garmin 430/Entegra

[Jim Burns]

It seems to me that you have to look at it from an FBO/Flight
Training/Airport/Pilots Groups point of view. Rather than the hotel being
their destination, the event or the service must be the destination. The
package and the hotel are the reason that they want to do it at IOW rather
than at home. So, how do you get more out of town people to the airport and
keep them there overnight? Misdirect a loaded airliner into IOW.

Ideas and a few that I've actually been involved in.

Wings Weekends
Weekend Ground Schools
HP/Complex Weekends
Glider Weekend
Aerobatics Weekend
Maintenance Weekend
Basic Maintenance Package Deal
Pinch Hitter Course
Iowa City Alexis Park Inn Aviation Seminars and Pig Roast featuring the Beer
of the Week
CFI Refresher Clinic

Wings Weekends can be done if your FSDO is capable of doing a safety seminar
per your request. If your FSDO is currently broke (like Wisconsin's) they
may authorize a CFI nearby to be the Safety Councilor and qualify him to
conduct the Safety Seminar to complete the Wings Program. That's what
they've done here in Wisconsin. You tell them what you want to do, they
help you get info and materials, then approve your seminar and give you the
Wings Certificates.

Weekend Groundschools. You could get Aviation Seminars to come in for a
weekend, or if you want, I can put you in contact with a couple CFI's near
me that do them for Private and Instrument. These can draw students from
far and wide because there are students everywhere that like the finality of
these programs and "just want to get it over." They also appeal to students
who can't attend the traditional weekly classes.

We've also done a couple HP/Complex Weekends. Ground training and 2-3 hours
training in a HP/Complex airplane. We were lucky enough to have a rental on
the field, but I know of several CFI's that came to us and rented the 182RG
to take it to their location to do the same type of program. One problem
that students are having is that some of the smaller 2 year aviation
programs do not own their own HP/Complex, and it's up to the students to get
that endorsement on their own. Is there a secondary school aviation program
in Iowa City?

Glider Weekend. This one could be tough. If you could contact your recent
glider friends and talk them into coming down to IOW with a glider and tow
plane, you may be able to pull it off.

Basic aerobatic instruction and demonstrations may also bring interested
pilots.

Maintenance Weekend. Have several A&P's put on demonstrations and give talks
about maintenance that airplane owners can perform and what renter pilots
should be knowledgeable of. I'd skip the annual thing, most people have
pointed out the obvious reason of needing something that wasn't available or
not being able to get parts on quick notice or during the weekend. BUT I
would seriously consider oil changes, tire installs/inspections/rotations,
brake work, plug cleaning, and mag timing/inspection, and fuel top off. For
the right price that would be very tempting to fly in, attend an aviation
seminar or two, send the wife to the masseuse, then have a great dinner and
some "beer of the week". With pre-registration, you could get all the info
to the A&P/IA so he would have everything in stock and maybe even be able to
comply with some of the repetitive 100 hour type AD's. Even without the
seminars, you could call it a basic maintenance weekend package, and it may
appeal to individual pilots throughout the year.

While any of the above is happening, you need to keep spouses busy and
happy. Your in(n) house massage therapist, swimming pool, exercise room can
be kept busy in this area. Day bus trips to Amana would no doubt also
appeal to women. Artsy fartsy stuff may apply. Maybe even one of those
in-house Tupperware or scrapbooking parties.

You could also put on a Pinch Hitter Co-Pilot or Spousal Orientation
Seminar. Mary would be awesome with this and not only put the pilot's wives
at ease, but give them special insight into learning to fly and flying from
a woman's perspective.

Evenings would be open to wine or beer tasting and barbeque around the pool
or in a banquet room.

Do your local EAA chapters have a "regional" type meeting, where they invite
EAA members from other chapters to a central event for the weekend? If not,
get them to organize it and then work with them to offer different options
for seminars, speakers, demonstrations, or any of the above. Same thing
with CAP, let them play the host party to other chapters of the same
organization for the weekend. Main thought is to bring in out of towners.

Think of all the seminars at OSH. Those people just don't crawl in a closet
when OSH ends, right Mr. Weir? Hunt up some local experts and ask them if
they'd be interested in speaking. Company reps would also be people to talk
to. I know Columbia flys around doing sales pitches, something like that
would be a welcome break during a Weekend Ground school. I've never been to
it, but that's basically what the Great Lakes Aviation Conference is, who
knows, maybe in a couple years you'd have created the IOW Aviation Seminar
Pig Roast Tupperware Party Symposium.

Almost forgot.... http://www.avweb.com/news/columns/182500-1.html Greg
Gorak, from the Milwaukee area, does CFI Refresher Weekends (fri & sat) at
hotels around the midwest. Maybe you can bring him in.

Jim Burns


"john smith" > wrote in message
...
> > Besides taildragger, how about HP, complex or other endorsement
> > opportunities over a weekend? Also set up 'Wings weekends' that pilots
> > could work on the 3 flight hours for the Wings programs with discounts
on a
> > room and CFI.
>
> 1. I agree, a WINGS WEEKEND program is a good draw for one weekend.
> 2. State maintenance weekend in collaboration with your local FSDO.
> Bring in A&P's, A/I's, manufactureres, vendors, FAA, state aviation
> officials. Two days for mechs to get recurrent training credit and
> update on the latest rules, regs, SB's, etc. One day set aside for
> pilots to attend maintenance seminars.
> 3. State aviation officials/airport managers conference.

[George Patterson]

Jay Honeck wrote:

> Iowa is (unfortunately for our airport, which had commercial service long
> before any of them) amply served by commercial service into Cedar Rapids,
> Des Moines, and Moline (Quad Cities)...

So, if you cater to customers from overseas, you would have to arrange to pick
them up at one of those airports. Would that be commercial use of Atlas?

George Patterson
Give a person a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a person to
use the Internet and he won't bother you for weeks.

[Jay Honeck]

> The odd thing is that the FBO's don't seem to realize that they are
> cutting their own throats when they don't recruit new pilots

I've been telling them that very same thing for the last 8 years.

Of course, in that time, we've had three FBOs, so they don't seem to be
"getting it"...
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Jay Honeck]

Thanks, Jim. I've printed this one out for Mary and me to peruse. There's
some excellent stuff in here!

BTW -- Your potato harvest didn't cause you to miss much flying this
weekend. Crappy weather!
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Peter Duniho]

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:zexZe.366651$_o.277188@attbi_s71...
> [...]
> I've talked to a couple of CFIs, and my favorite shop, and they're
> interested in trying it -- but I don't want to waste their money if the
> consensus here is that it's a dumb idea...

Combo deals generally: I look closely to see whether I'm really getting a
discount. Many are just marketing schemes to consolidate advertising costs.
So make sure there's something significant in it for the consumer, on the
order of 10-20% off.

As far as the annual thing goes: no, I wouldn't have an unknown shop do my
inspection. As a general rule of thumb, I would limit your combo deals to
things that are valuable only at the immediate moment, rather than having a
potentially on-going effect on the customer's life. An annual inspection in
particular creates the potential for long-term headaches for the customer;
even if you ensure yourself that the shop is reliable, the customer has no
way to know this for sure. Responses to that kind of offer would probably
be limited, IMHO.

Rather than offering an annual inspection, maybe offer something like a free
airplane wash, or an oil change, or something like that.

I don't think you're crazy for considering combo deals, but make sure you
think carefully from the point of view of the customer. Just because YOU
know the deal is a good one, that doesn't mean the customer can be
convinced.

Pete

[Jim Burns]

Crappy weather put the potato harvest on hold until it dries out, so I was
able to escape to the airport. With 400 ft ceilings I couldn't fly, but I
did pull her out and warm her up enough to change the oil. So I got a small
airplane fix to hold me over!

John Smith had a great idea about the GPS classes also. We did one at STE
for the Garmin 430. Lots of pilots don't use 1/2 the features and aren't
really up to speed on the 1/2 that they do use, especially renters.

Jim

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:WAJZe.367674$_o.31107@attbi_s71...
> Thanks, Jim. I've printed this one out for Mary and me to peruse.
There's
> some excellent stuff in here!
>
> BTW -- Your potato harvest didn't cause you to miss much flying this
> weekend. Crappy weather!
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>
>

[Gig 601XL Builder]

Do you have an instructor there that does tail-wheel endorsements? That
would be a good one. You might want to add something wives could do while
the husband is flying. All of us aren't as lucky as you when it comes to
flight interested wives.



"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:zexZe.366651$_o.277188@attbi_s71...
> Opinions, please!
>
> (No one on Usenet has any of *those*, right? :-)
>
> We're considering putting together a combo deal with a couple of other
> local airport businesses, along the following lines:
>
> 1. Come to Iowa City and stay the weekend in one of our aviation themed
> jacuzzi suites...
> 2. While you're here do your BFR with _________, a local CFII...
> 3. While you're here, have your aircraft annualed by ___________, a local
> shop with 40 years experience...
> 4. Any other suggestions? Tickets to a football game? Dinner at the Old
> Capitol Brew Works?
>
> Of course the package price would be very attractive -- much less than
> normal.
>
> I've seen these kinds of things for "Overnight IFR Training" and "Weekend
> Ground Schools" -- but do they work? Anyone ever done anything like this
> before?
>
> Would you feel comfortable having a strange shop annual your plane? (Or
> is that actually a selling point, having "new eyes" check things over?)
>
> I've talked to a couple of CFIs, and my favorite shop, and they're
> interested in trying it -- but I don't want to waste their money if the
> consensus here is that it's a dumb idea...
>
> Thanks!
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>

[Jay Honeck]

> I don't think you're crazy for considering combo deals, but make sure you
> think carefully from the point of view of the customer. Just because YOU
> know the deal is a good one, that doesn't mean the customer can be
> convinced.

Yeah, that's always the catch. I've come up with some of the best
deals in the world (in newspapers and at the inn) that flopped
horribly. Although it's often a case of not being able to find the
best advertising venue for the deal.

Another problem we've got is that summers -- the best flying time --
are already full up. Now, would I rather have a hotel full of pilots
rather than a hotel full of weddings? You bet! But everything you do
with pilots is weather-dependent, and how can I make it
"non-cancellable"?

For example, let's say we do an "Aerobatics Weekend" at the inn --
something that would be VERY cool to do. Let's say we get a marvelous
response, and we're sold out. Therefore, no one else can book a night
at the hotel...

....and then it's crap weather for the weekend. No one can fly,
including the aerobatics instructor. Then what? Do I simply write
off any income for the weekend? Or do I charge everyone anyway? Who
would want to pay *that*?

We want to be pilot-friendly, but we can't lose an entire summer
weekend because of weather. Our inn is simply too small to put all of
our eggs in a potentially leaky basket like that.

SO, can we do this kind of thing in the "off-season" when it wouldn't
matter so much? Things are slowing down now, except for Big Ten
football weekends. The weather is still pretty good around here
through the first of November, and then we could build in
"leaf-peeping" flights, too, I suppose? Then, if everyone had to
cancel due to weather, I would only be out "potential" money rather
than "real" money, since we probably wouldn't be sold out anyway.

Just thinking out loud here... What to do, what to do...?
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[N93332]

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
oups.com...
> For example, let's say we do an "Aerobatics Weekend" at the inn --
> something that would be VERY cool to do. Let's say we get a marvelous
> response, and we're sold out. Therefore, no one else can book a night
> at the hotel...
>
> ...and then it's crap weather for the weekend. No one can fly,
> including the aerobatics instructor. Then what? Do I simply write
> off any income for the weekend? Or do I charge everyone anyway? Who
> would want to pay *that*?
>
> Just thinking out loud here... What to do, what to do...?

Just a thought... Instead of planning for weekend deals, what about a
week-long deal? You wouldn't have to worry as much about the weather being
crappy the entire week. There >may< be enough things to do in the area if
the weather isn't the best such as the National Czech museum, Amana
Colonies, riverboat casinos, Kirk's birthplace, Hoover's museum, etc... I'm
sure there are a lot of other points of interest in that area, not sure if
there's a week's worth. Schedule the flying activities (aerobatics, Wings,
BFR's, etc.) early in the week and if the weather isn't good those days,
push them back and do other activities.

Who knows, if there is enough to do for a week around IC, both flying and
non-flying activities, it could become Oshkosh II! ;-)

[Jim Burns]

> Just thinking out loud here... What to do, what to do...?

Limit your exposure to disaster by combining the outdoor flying event with
indoor events, off sight trips/tours or romantic dinners. Most pilots will
understand that the weather is out of your control, by providing alternative
activities or services, you can limit the number of complaints by those who
insist that they only came because of the flying activity.

Jim

[Marco Leon]

Jay,
Just read an article in the current issue of Private Pilot about a "annual
inspection parties." Take a look at it.
Basically, a bunch of aircraft owners of a similar type of aircraft get
together for a week and help each other out with owner-assisted annuals over
a watchful eye of an IA. The article was about a bunch of Navion owners but
could be done with any type of course. By the end of the week, all of the
aircraft are signed-off and a bunch of folks have had a geat time all week.

Marco Leon



"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:zexZe.366651$_o.277188@attbi_s71...
> Opinions, please!
>
> (No one on Usenet has any of *those*, right? :-)
>
> We're considering putting together a combo deal with a couple of other
local
> airport businesses, along the following lines:
>
> 1. Come to Iowa City and stay the weekend in one of our aviation themed
> jacuzzi suites...
> 2. While you're here do your BFR with _________, a local CFII...
> 3. While you're here, have your aircraft annualed by ___________, a local
> shop with 40 years experience...
> 4. Any other suggestions? Tickets to a football game? Dinner at the Old
> Capitol Brew Works?
>
> Of course the package price would be very attractive -- much less than
> normal.
>
> I've seen these kinds of things for "Overnight IFR Training" and "Weekend
> Ground Schools" -- but do they work? Anyone ever done anything like this
> before?
>
> Would you feel comfortable having a strange shop annual your plane? (Or
is
> that actually a selling point, having "new eyes" check things over?)
>
> I've talked to a couple of CFIs, and my favorite shop, and they're
> interested in trying it -- but I don't want to waste their money if the
> consensus here is that it's a dumb idea...
>
> Thanks!
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>
>



Posted Via Usenet.com Premium Usenet Newsgroup Services
----------------------------------------------------------
** SPEED ** RETENTION ** COMPLETION ** ANONYMITY **
----------------------------------------------------------
http://www.usenet.com

[N93332]

-"Marco Leon" <mmleon(at)yahoo.com> wrote in message
...
> Jay,
> Just read an article in the current issue of Private Pilot about a "annual
> inspection parties." Take a look at it.
> Basically, a bunch of aircraft owners of a similar type of aircraft get
> together for a week and help each other out with owner-assisted annuals
> over
> a watchful eye of an IA. The article was about a bunch of Navion owners
> but
> could be done with any type of course. By the end of the week, all of the
> aircraft are signed-off and a bunch of folks have had a geat time all
> week.

That'd be neat! Schedule different types for each week. You'd have
business for quite a few weeks.

My type week would probably end up being in the middle of January...

[Chris G.]

I'm paying close attention to all of this thread's posts in case I am
able to actually fly out or pass through the Inn there in the next
couple of years. I went to the Jay's website and was not able to really
find a lot of information about the area. I'm NOT a sports fan, (yes,
I'm weird that way) so I like to look for other interesting things that
can show me the unique "character" of the region. For example, Baker
City, Oregon, (KBKE) has the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, an
unrelated Oregon Trail Museum, historic downtown district, skiing, the
Sumpter Valley RR, and there is probably more that I (who am not from
the area) know about.

Jay, one good thing you can do to help your Inn is to add more
information about the local area and link to various activities. How
about throwing in a page about the local history? Those kind of things
might catch people's attention as much as a "deal" or, it might be the
deciding factor in City A vs City B during route planning.

Good luck! I'll be watching!

(PS add more hot tubs! ;)

Chris G.
Salem, Oregon
PP-ASEL

Jay Honeck wrote:
>>I don't think you're crazy for considering combo deals, but make sure you
>>think carefully from the point of view of the customer. Just because YOU
>>know the deal is a good one, that doesn't mean the customer can be
>>convinced.
>
>
> Yeah, that's always the catch. I've come up with some of the best
> deals in the world (in newspapers and at the inn) that flopped
> horribly. Although it's often a case of not being able to find the
> best advertising venue for the deal.
>
> Another problem we've got is that summers -- the best flying time --
> are already full up. Now, would I rather have a hotel full of pilots
> rather than a hotel full of weddings? You bet! But everything you do
> with pilots is weather-dependent, and how can I make it
> "non-cancellable"?
>
> For example, let's say we do an "Aerobatics Weekend" at the inn --
> something that would be VERY cool to do. Let's say we get a marvelous
> response, and we're sold out. Therefore, no one else can book a night
> at the hotel...
>
> ...and then it's crap weather for the weekend. No one can fly,
> including the aerobatics instructor. Then what? Do I simply write
> off any income for the weekend? Or do I charge everyone anyway? Who
> would want to pay *that*?
>
> We want to be pilot-friendly, but we can't lose an entire summer
> weekend because of weather. Our inn is simply too small to put all of
> our eggs in a potentially leaky basket like that.
>
> SO, can we do this kind of thing in the "off-season" when it wouldn't
> matter so much? Things are slowing down now, except for Big Ten
> football weekends. The weather is still pretty good around here
> through the first of November, and then we could build in
> "leaf-peeping" flights, too, I suppose? Then, if everyone had to
> cancel due to weather, I would only be out "potential" money rather
> than "real" money, since we probably wouldn't be sold out anyway.
>
> Just thinking out loud here... What to do, what to do...?
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>

[Peter Duniho]

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
oups.com...
> [...]
> For example, let's say we do an "Aerobatics Weekend" at the inn --
> something that would be VERY cool to do. Let's say we get a marvelous
> response, and we're sold out. Therefore, no one else can book a night
> at the hotel...
>
> ...and then it's crap weather for the weekend. No one can fly,
> including the aerobatics instructor. Then what? Do I simply write
> off any income for the weekend? Or do I charge everyone anyway? Who
> would want to pay *that*?

As Jim said, the solution is to ensure you have an appropriate backup plan
for anything you can't guarantee personally. Like the weather. :)

He gave some good suggestions, but you shouldn't be limited by those. You
could still honor the flying aspect of the deal by providing rain checks, or
developing a network of associated aerobatics instructors (for example)
elsewhere, allowing at least some guests to take advantage of the aerobatic
flights at or near their home at a later date.

You could minimize your risk of being affected by weather (but not eliminate
it) by finding an aerobatic instructor who can also fly in IMC, so that the
aerobatic portion of the flight takes place above whatever inclement weather
is present.

Or, you could simply refund the portion of the package that represents the
cost of the flying element.

Another option, at least for those dates when you're NOT likely to be
overbooked (that is, more demand than rooms) is to simply offer a
rescheduling for the entire package. I understand what you mean about
having the rooms booked for pilots who might cancel when you could have
booked for football fans who wouldn't. So don't do that. Only allow the
cancellations when that booking didn't represent a lost booking by someone
else (obviously you have to specify those dates up front). Lots of other
service industries are very comfortable with "blackout dates"...should work
well here too.

Keeping in mind that I would be surprised if you managed to get even 50%
bookings of pilots taking advantage of a weather-dependent offer, so even if
you did have to let everyone just cancel without rebooking, it's not the
complete loss that it could be. You would have to actually set aside all
your rooms, booking them ONLY to people taking advantage of the offer, in
order to come close to having only pilots taking advantage of the offer
booking those dates. Otherwise, the general flow of business will ensure
that most bookings aren't by pilots taking you up on the offer.

Bottom line: yes, the issue you describe is a potential roadblock. So, work
around it. That's what a good business owner does. If the customer sees
that you are trying to provide an offering that provides them a benefit, and
is at the same time understanding (through your communication to them) what
limitations may exist, everyone can come out happy.

Pete

[Jim Burns]

Good advise Pete,
The more I think about it, the more I would be tempted to have a two-pronged
multi faceted plan.

A) Basic maintenance/BFR/IPC/HP-Complex/Tailwheel type Weekend for the
single pilot and his/her significant other offered year around. This package
would be based upon what is available year around at IOW, namely a CFI and
an A&P.

Day One: Fly in for the weekend, get basic maintenance performed on your
airplane while you sit down with a CFI and do the ground portion of your
flying event. Mean while, your significant other spends that time shopping,
swimming, relaxing, visiting Amana, getting a make over, massage, or hitting
the local hot spots. That evening borrow the Alexis Super Van to drive down
to a class A restaurant for a nice dinner, then head back to the Inn for a
night in one of the Suites.

Day Two: Pilot assists the A&P finishing up the basic maintenance and
getting the log books completed, then finishes the flying event with the
CFI. During this time the non flying spouse could do additional activities
as above. This should leave enough time for an afternoon departure towards
home.

The "pilot/spouse" weekends could be individually customized to meet the
requirements of the pilot & spouse. Obviously a PP would not need a IPC,
and a CP may not need the HP endorsement. Maybe give them a checklist with
options and alternatives with different prices. Same thing for maintenence,
a pilot with an airplane with only a suction screen wouldn't want his
package to include an oil filter.

B) Special Event type programs offered several times a year designed to
bring in larger crowds and planned in conjunction with other pilot
organizations. More work, more expense, more risk, more planning required
but these events could produce repetitive business. These would be planned
to take place during non-peak weekends at the Inn.

Jim (hey, it rained and I've got too much time on my hands)

[Jay Honeck]

> Jay, one good thing you can do to help your Inn is to add more
> information about the local area and link to various activities.

How's this, from our website:

http://www.alexisparkinn.com/links1.htm

Or are you looking for other stuff?

> (PS add more hot tubs! ;)

Good God, man, I've already got 15 hot tub suites! How many can one
guy use????

:-)
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Jim Burns]

> Good God, man, I've already got 15 hot tub suites! How many can one
> guy use????
>
> :-)
> --
> Jay Honeck

Imagine them all filled with beautiful women and then ask yourself that
question again! :))
Jim

[Chris G.]

What???? No Six Flags? Dollywood? C'mon...you can't be that far from
Silver Dollar City! ;)

You links are a good start... What about any tourist attractions like
parks (national & local), Nat'l monuments, historic sites, water slides,
ummm..... hell, I don't know. I'm not into soloists ;) (unless it's
me flying).

A thought...what about adding your own opinions of some places you, your
wife, and your kids like to go to? I can't put my finger on what (for
me specifically) is lacking... I guess I still don't feel like I know
the area well enough to plan, though I did only check out iowacity.net
(at work, not a lot of time). I guess think about it from my
perspective. Besides the fantastic service and accommodations at the
Inn, what else would draw my across several states to stay there? How
would I find out about it?

:) Chris



Jay Honeck wrote:
>>Jay, one good thing you can do to help your Inn is to add more
>>information about the local area and link to various activities.
>
>
> How's this, from our website:
>
> http://www.alexisparkinn.com/links1.htm
>
> Or are you looking for other stuff?
>
>
>>(PS add more hot tubs! ;)
>
>
> Good God, man, I've already got 15 hot tub suites! How many can one
> guy use????
>
> :-)
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>

[Chris G.]

I did...then I woke up next to my wife.... :O

I will have to look closer at his site for them. I was at work last
time I looked (wait...that's where I am now!) and didn't have much time.

Chris


Jim Burns wrote:
>>Good God, man, I've already got 15 hot tub suites! How many can one
>>guy use????
>>
>>:-)
>>--
>>Jay Honeck
>
>
> Imagine them all filled with beautiful women and then ask yourself that
> question again! :))
> Jim
>
>
>

[john smith]

> > Good God, man, I've already got 15 hot tub suites! How many can one
> > guy use????

> Imagine them all filled with beautiful women and then ask yourself that
> question again! :))

If they are all full, why would you need more?
You should have said, "Imagine them all filled, with dozens more waiting
their turn."

[George Patterson]

Jay Honeck wrote:

> Just thinking out loud here... What to do, what to do...?

The main thing to do is to keep your profession separated from your hobby, at
least far enough to not jeopardize your income.

George Patterson
Give a person a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a person to
use the Internet and he won't bother you for weeks.

[Jay Honeck]

> A thought...what about adding your own opinions of some places you, your
> wife, and your kids like to go to?

How's this, from the site:

http://alexisparkinn.com/recent_events.htm

This page started off being just events held at the inn, but has evolved
into events we've been to near and around the inn, too. It's not quite
what you asked for, but it contains many of the same types of things!
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Jay Honeck]

>> Just thinking out loud here... What to do, what to do...?
>
> The main thing to do is to keep your profession separated from your hobby,
> at least far enough to not jeopardize your income.

Eh? Better expand on that one a bit, George.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Jay Honeck]

> Just read an article in the current issue of Private Pilot about a "annual
> inspection parties." Take a look at it.

Cool idea!

I wonder how many people would actually be able to take a week off work to
get their hands dirty, though?

I do an "owner assisted" annual every year (and really enjoy it) -- but I'm
only able to steal a day or two -- and not the entire day, usually -- to do
it. And I've got about as flexible a schedule as you can imagine.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[George Patterson]

Jay Honeck wrote:

> Eh? Better expand on that one a bit, George.

Well, for example, you point out that you're pretty busy during the summer and
that it would be difficult to set up some sort of special deal for pilots for a
variety of reasons. So, don't.

Don't subvert your business to your hobby if it's going to substantially
decrease your income.

George Patterson
Give a person a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a person to
use the Internet and he won't bother you for weeks.

[Marco Leon]

You'd probably have a better chance to get this off the ground with owners
that are a bit let's say..."fanatical" about their aircraft type. That
article had Navion owners but others may include owners of Grumman
Tiger/Cheetah/Travelers, warbird-types (L-19s come to mind), Commanders,
Ercoupes, and Bellanca Vikings. In other words, close communities of
relatively uncommon or rare types. Call some of the clubs or associations of
these birds and run the idea by them. Who knows, they may even have one of
these "parties" as a regular occurrence and are looking for a change of
venue.

Actually, you should call these clubs anyway and work out any type of
get-together. You know, offer a reduced rate and stuff as an incentive.

Marco Leon

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
news:ela_e.166380$084.157838@attbi_s22...
> > Just read an article in the current issue of Private Pilot about a
"annual
> > inspection parties." Take a look at it.
>
> Cool idea!
>
> I wonder how many people would actually be able to take a week off work to
> get their hands dirty, though?
>
> I do an "owner assisted" annual every year (and really enjoy it) -- but
I'm
> only able to steal a day or two -- and not the entire day, usually -- to
do
> it. And I've got about as flexible a schedule as you can imagine.
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>
>
>



Posted Via Usenet.com Premium Usenet Newsgroup Services
----------------------------------------------------------
** SPEED ** RETENTION ** COMPLETION ** ANONYMITY **
----------------------------------------------------------
http://www.usenet.com

[Jay Honeck]

> Well, for example, you point out that you're pretty busy during the summer and
> that it would be difficult to set up some sort of special deal for pilots for a
> variety of reasons. So, don't.
>
> Don't subvert your business to your hobby if it's going to substantially
> decrease your income.

Ah, right.

That's the rub, though, isn't it? I'm not doing this to get rich, I'm
doing this because it's fun! This past summer we had 16 weddings at
the inn (well, the weddings were at the church, but you know what I
mean), which was wonderful -- we were full all the time.

But, you know what? We had to turn away pilots on quite a few
weekends. Since the pleasure I derive from this business is not
monetary, but rather the fun of hanging around hangar flying with
pilots all day long, what the hell did I gain?

On the other hand, that income enabled us to add a new workout room and
an in-house massage therapist -- so I guess it's all good. But I'd
personally rather do more pilot-oriented stuff.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Bob Noel]

In article om>,
"Jay Honeck" > wrote:

[snip]
> On the other hand, that income enabled us to add a new workout room and
> an in-house massage therapist -- so I guess it's all good. But I'd
> personally rather do more pilot-oriented stuff.

Next time, use the income to add a room that is only available to pilots.
No exceptions, no excuses. Pilots only. (maybe two rooms, one
smoking, one non-smoking)

--
Bob Noel
no one likes an educated mule

[Gig 601XL Builder]

"Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
ups.com...
>
> On the other hand, that income enabled us to add a new workout room and
> an in-house massage therapist -- so I guess it's all good. But I'd
> personally rather do more pilot-oriented stuff.
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>

The new slogan... "After a Happy Landing a Happy Ending"

[George Patterson]

Bob Noel wrote:

> Next time, use the income to add a room that is only available to pilots.
> No exceptions, no excuses. Pilots only. (maybe two rooms, one
> smoking, one non-smoking)

Now, there's an idea! I still fondly remember the guy at RDU throwing me the
keys to a pilot's cubby when all the hotels were full and the dew point spread
was about 4 degrees and closing.

It doesn't have to be very big to be useful, Jay. The one I used was about twice
the size of the bed. No windows (deliberately), and a shared bathroom.

George Patterson
Give a person a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a person to
use the Internet and he won't bother you for weeks.

[Jay Honeck]

> It doesn't have to be very big to be useful, Jay. The one I used was about
> twice the size of the bed. No windows (deliberately), and a shared
> bathroom.

The airport already has stuff like that. (And, in a real pinch, we've also
got a dorm that usually has an empty bed to use. I've opened that up on
football weekends a few times.)

Mary and I are more into the "lounge in a hot tub while your young, nubile
companion feeds you grapes"-style of lodging...

:-)
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Jay Honeck]

>> This past summer we had 16 weddings at
>> the inn (well, the weddings were at the church, but you know what I
>> mean),
>
> a reception?

No, we don't have a banquet hall -- yet.

These were wedding parties who held their reception at a nearby banquet hall
(within walking distance) and then were able to toddle (crawl?) back to
their suites *after* the reception. They often take every available suite
for the groomsmen, brides maids, etc.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[Bob Noel]

In article <Vax_e.372071$x96.365596@attbi_s72>,
"Jay Honeck" > wrote:

> Mary and I are more into the "lounge in a hot tub while your young, nubile
> companion feeds you grapes"-style of lodging...

Well, my young nubile companions better be feeding *me* grapes, not you.

:-)

--
Bob Noel
no one likes an educated mule

[Margy]

Jay Honeck wrote:
>>Jay, one good thing you can do to help your Inn is to add more
>>information about the local area and link to various activities.
>
>
> How's this, from our website:
>
> http://www.alexisparkinn.com/links1.htm
>
> Or are you looking for other stuff?
>
>
>>(PS add more hot tubs! ;)
>
>
> Good God, man, I've already got 15 hot tub suites! How many can one
> guy use????
>

Do you have one outside by the pool?

Margy
> :-)
> --
> Jay Honeck
> Iowa City, IA
> Pathfinder N56993
> www.AlexisParkInn.com
> "Your Aviation Destination"
>

[Margy]

Jay Honeck wrote:
>>A thought...what about adding your own opinions of some places you, your
>>wife, and your kids like to go to?
>
>
> How's this, from the site:
>
> http://alexisparkinn.com/recent_events.htm
>
> This page started off being just events held at the inn, but has evolved
> into events we've been to near and around the inn, too. It's not quite
> what you asked for, but it contains many of the same types of things!
Missing the point Jay, I just looked at the "Pleasure" page and from it
I see there is NOTHING to do in Iowa city. If I hunt some to the
upcoming events, then I find a link and I'll be damned there are museums
in Iowa City!!!

How about a "What to do in Iowa City" page with standing features, like
rainforests :-), museums, etc.

Margy (BTW how about a weekend combo with a balloon ride, theater
tickets, champagne dinners ...

Margy

[Margy]

As a matter of fact Jay you might want to personally write each and
every type society and offer to host their next national convention.
The Navioneers spend a week every July somewhere in the US. You have to
assure a good place to race, easy access to the airport (done!), decent
places to eat (not a problem) a fly-away destination (Ammana Colonies)
and places for the spouses to go if they want. Easy access to rent a
cars or the lack of need for rent a cars a plus. What you really need
is a dinner on field and/or clean out that big room for catered affairs!
When you send out your info make sure you describe number and types of
rooms. Some folks may have to share with their friends to get everyone in.

Margy


Marco Leon wrote:
> You'd probably have a better chance to get this off the ground with owners
> that are a bit let's say..."fanatical" about their aircraft type. That
> article had Navion owners but others may include owners of Grumman
> Tiger/Cheetah/Travelers, warbird-types (L-19s come to mind), Commanders,
> Ercoupes, and Bellanca Vikings. In other words, close communities of
> relatively uncommon or rare types. Call some of the clubs or associations of
> these birds and run the idea by them. Who knows, they may even have one of
> these "parties" as a regular occurrence and are looking for a change of
> venue.
>
> Actually, you should call these clubs anyway and work out any type of
> get-together. You know, offer a reduced rate and stuff as an incentive.
>
> Marco Leon
>
> "Jay Honeck" > wrote in message
> news:ela_e.166380$084.157838@attbi_s22...
>
>>>Just read an article in the current issue of Private Pilot about a
>
> "annual
>
>>>inspection parties." Take a look at it.
>>
>>Cool idea!
>>
>>I wonder how many people would actually be able to take a week off work to
>>get their hands dirty, though?
>>
>>I do an "owner assisted" annual every year (and really enjoy it) -- but
>
> I'm
>
>>only able to steal a day or two -- and not the entire day, usually -- to
>
> do
>
>>it. And I've got about as flexible a schedule as you can imagine.
>>--
>>Jay Honeck
>>Iowa City, IA
>>Pathfinder N56993
>>www.AlexisParkInn.com
>>"Your Aviation Destination"
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
> Posted Via Usenet.com Premium Usenet Newsgroup Services
> ----------------------------------------------------------
> ** SPEED ** RETENTION ** COMPLETION ** ANONYMITY **
> ----------------------------------------------------------
> http://www.usenet.com

[tony roberts]

> Mary and I are more into the "lounge in a hot tub while your young, nubile
> companion feeds you grapes"-style of lodging...

So is the young, nubile companion a part of the package?
Come on Jay - do we have to think of everything? :)

I would lose the annual idea - unless you're planning on free
accommodation for everyone who is grounded - could look bad.

My suggestion is to have several packages - but do keep some of them
aviation. For example - stay in the hotel and obtain a flight rating -
or a flight review. Also throw in a sightseeing flight - you were going
anyway right? Any aviation museums nearby? Could you get an
interesting aviation speaker to come to the hotel? Or an aviation
author? Or a manufacturer's rep (Garmin GPS seminar for example)

HTH

Tony
--
If at first you don't succeed - DON'T Skydive!


Tony Roberts
PP-ASEL
VFR OTT
Night
Cessna 172H C-GICE

[Jay Honeck]

> As a matter of fact Jay you might want to personally write each and every
> type society and offer to host their next national convention.

Thanks for the suggestions, Margy. We have bombed out with the bigger
groups (Cherokee Pilots Association, for example) simply because we're too
small, at just 27 rentable suites. True, there are 44 bedrooms in those
suites, but we're usually about 50% full even on bad days, so in reality
there's only about 12 - 15 suites available, total.

> The Navioneers spend a week every July somewhere in the US. You have to
> assure a good place to race, easy access to the airport (done!), decent
> places to eat (not a problem) a fly-away destination (Ammana Colonies) and
> places for the spouses to go if they want. Easy access to rent a cars or
> the lack of need for rent a cars a plus. What you really need is a dinner
> on field and/or clean out that big room for catered affairs!

Actually that big room that was full of junk has been our Iowa City Room for
around two years now. We can seat around 40 in rows, or 16 - 20 around
tables. The Iowa chapter of the 99s use it for their annual meeting now.

> When you send out your info make sure you describe number and types of
> rooms. Some folks may have to share with their friends to get everyone
> in.

Thanks again for taking the time to suggest things!
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"

[[email protected]]

Jay,

I am thinking your hotel is just the ticket for a "fly-in aviation
training experience". :-)

I've been looking for yet another opportunity to take the
"Colorado Pilots Association"
"MOUNTAIN FLYING - HIGH ELEVATION AIRPORT OPERATIONS GROUND SCHOOL"
"on the road". :-)
We've been to Oshkosh and Sun-N-Fun, Colorado, Nebraska, Wyoming,
Oklahoma and other states.

CPA figures they need 30 or more paid participants for 2 or more days,
at $145 each, to break even. (May be a bit more because of travel).
It is an 8 hour ground school, and moves right along!

Would you be willing to supply a meeting room, and a hotel room for
each of two instructors? (Your loss leader), to pickup the fly-in
overnight participants. I figure the instructors would come in the
day before to do setup, and leave the morning after the last seminar.

Say... a Friday, Saturday and Sunday (possibly Monday) in January or
February, at your hotel, in Iowa. Then, they come to Colorado on
their schedule to fly with me (or other local CPA instructors)... I
have C182, C172 and an Arrow available to rent, or they could use
their own aircraft.

We would have to advertise in Iowa and surrounding states, and on the
Colorado Pilots web site, to get 3 (or more) days of participants.

The 2005 schedule and locations looked like this:

http://www.coloradopilots.org/content_mtnfly_class.asp?menuID=16~16

In addition, we conducted another MF-HEAOGS at Greeley, and used some
of the material for two Civil Air Patrol mountain flying and
search-and-rescue courses, this year.

Best regards,

Jer/ "Flight instruction and mountain flying are my vocation!" Eberhard

--
Jer/ (Slash) Eberhard, Mountain Flying Aviation, LTD, Ft Collins, CO
CELL 970 231-6325 EMAIL jer'at'frii.com WEB http://users.frii.com/jer/
C-206 N9513G, CFII Airplane&Glider, FAA-DEN Aviation Safety Counselor
CAP-CO Mission&Aircraft CheckPilot, BM218 HAM N0FZD, 233 Young Eagles!