Due to the ongoing instability in the Middle East resulting in significantly higher fuel costs, there is a need for a fuel surcharge effective from the above date. The price prior to this was about $2.7 per litre.
From 3/4/26: The fuel price was increased to $3.2451 on 1st April so the revised fuel levy will be $17 per VDO hour.
From 20/3/26: One fuel supplier at Moorabbin unfortunately raised fuel prices by over 11% on 18/3/26, and indicated that further significant increases were likely to follow. Accordingly the following surcharge will apply to all flights: $9 per VDO hour.
Note that the surcharge is subject to change so check here before your flight to get the current levy. There will be at least a day’s notice here.
As from 1 March 2026: hire VH-UPG: $434 per VDO hour.
This is a 3.3% increase over the 2025 rate of $420. The typical increases in insurance and hangarage this year. We’ve also seen significant increases in engine overhaul cost and spare parts, including very high shipping costs, from the USA.
The rate may be changed without notice in future – check back here. Rates are reviewed at least annually, around January.
Instruction rates for David are:
- Ground theory briefings: $60 per hour
- Flight Instruction in Super Decathlon VH-UPG: $120 per VDO hour.
- Flight instruction in other aircraft: $160 per hour (from engine start to engine stop)
- Supervision of solo aerobatic training flights: 3000 ft AGL and 1500 ft AGL: $60 per hour
- Supervision of solo aerobatic flights – 1000 ft AGL and 500 ft AGL: $60 per hour (plus travel if applicable)
The rate for Part 141 flight instructor training endorsements is currently $70 per hour flat rate for time on the job. Note that one flight hour in the Super Decathlon typically requires a 2 hr booking slot.
For flight examiner services (design feature, spin & aerobatic training endorsements) the rate is $75+GST per hour.
Note:
- Rates include GST (except where noted above) and apply to Moorabbin operations only. Contact David for rates at other locations – car travel at the ATO rate will apply to other airfields in the Melbourne area.
- Fuel is normally obtained from BP on UPG’s Carnet Card. Any fuel purchased by a pilot is reimbursed at the rate per litre of UPG’s Carnet Card account.
- Per normal practice, cancellation fees may be charged if the cancellation of a booking is not advised within 24 hours of the scheduled time other than due to operational reasons (e.g. pilot in command’s – instructor if dual, decision wrt weather etc) and other uncontrollable circumstances. Cancellation fee is 50% of the expected duration.
- Interest on overdue accounts at 12% p.a. applied monthly, cumulative.