In a message dated 11/25/2003 3:39:57 PM Pacific Standard Time, damiross2@xxxxxxxxxxx writes: << The operating costs are not necessarily higher. While an older aircraft may consume more fuel, it also depreciated so the capital costs are less. Why do you think so many older aircraft are converted to freighters? >> Also, old piston craft use much less gas than jets. If you are using them for short flights and tours, that wont go much above FL200, they are fine for economy