Cuban plane auctioned off

MIAMI, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- A Miami woman who was jilted by a Cuban spy has bought an aging Russian-built biplane at auction for $7,000 but now has to figure out how to profit from it.

The yellow Antonov AN-2 Colt arrived in Key West Nov. 11 when 11 Cuban citizens used it to defect to this country.

Since Ana Margarita Martinez did not pay cash, she starts off ahead of the game. The money was taken from a $27 million judgment against Cuba as compensation for her sham marriage with Cuban spy Juan Pablo Roque.

"I really need to sit down with my attorneys and figure out what my options are," said Martinez.

It is not clear when Martinez will take possession of the plane. She now owes Monroe County $16,000 for security costs.

Similar aircraft are believed to be worth between $30,000 and $60,0000, depending on their condition.

The Federal Aviation Administration limits their flying operations in the United States so most are owned by aircraft collectors.

Attorney Scott W. Leeds, who represents Martinez, said they are discussing the possibility of donating the 1,000 horsepower, single-engine plane to a worthy cause.

There were a handful of would-be bidders, but were reluctant to spend much money.

"It would be worth $40,000 if it were in perfect condition but obviously it's not,{ said John Cave of Medford, N.J.

The lien by Monroe County for security also kept the price down.

Among the not always serious suggestions for what to do with the plane included donating it to a museum, turning it into a diner and parking it in Leeds' back yard.

Those who are familiar with the plane said it was best suited for hauling tobacco or small numbers of troops.