This is an entertaining thread! Right down my alley, been in the ride
business now for 40+ years. Switched from mutiple gliders and
towplanes to one selflauncher 16 years ago, then a Grob Twin IIISL.
There were several reasons:
semi retirement, airport parking- taxiing, pilots etc. Self launching
is the future! I am always wondering why not more com operators do
more of it or convert. Most likely cost.
As for the US-Russian, he has logical ideas, also a big family. Busy
guy! Good training there with the Russians!
He might not want to rush into things, might end up going back to that
Mtn valley in Russia. Lots of rich Russians now that might want to
pick up Soaring fast for money, rather than clubs.

It takes a resort nearby to have a good ride business, possibly an
interstate highway, but a resort is better. Yeah and defenitely a two
seater! Bumper, you are not the only one. But of course there are com
operators that also into teaching and rentals. For that the Antares
might work? One could go on and on!

Think Up!

Soarski