Shopping for an airplane is often the most exciting part of aircraft ownership, but it’s also where mistakes can become very expensive. In How to Buy an Airplane – Episode 3, Jamie Beckett walks pilots through how to shop smart, evaluate aircraft realistically, and protect themselves before making a purchase.
Where to Find the Right Airplane
Pilots can shop for aircraft in many places, including online marketplaces like Barnstormers and Trade-A-Plane, airport bulletin boards, aviation magazines, and word of mouth. While photos and listings can be exciting, Jamie stresses the importance of staying objective. A great looking airplane may hide costly problems beneath the surface.
Logbooks Matter More Than You Think
One of the first questions buyers should ask is whether the aircraft has complete logbooks. There are three critical sets: airframe, engine, and propeller logs. Missing logbooks don’t automatically disqualify an airplane, but they increase risk and should be reflected in the purchase price.
Buyers must ensure all required maintenance and airworthiness directives are properly documented, regardless of logbook gaps.
Big-Ticket Items That Can Break the Budget
The aircraft panel and engine are two of the most expensive areas to upgrade or replace. An older panel may work fine for VFR time-building, but pilots planning IFR operations or flying into busy airspace may face costly avionics upgrades.
Engine time alone doesn’t tell the full story. How often the aircraft is flown, how it’s stored, and its operating environment all impact engine health. Corrosion, especially in humid or coastal regions, is another major consideration.
Why a Pre-Buy Inspection is Non-Negotiable
A thorough pre-buy inspection, ideally performed by a mechanic chosen by the buyer, is essential. In some cases, a pre-buy can be combined with an annual inspection to save money. Using an independent mechanic ensures issues aren’t overlooked due to familiarity or assumption.
While a quality pre-buy inspection may cost several hundred dollars or more, it’s inexpensive insurance against buying a problem aircraft.
Negotiation, Insurance, and Final Steps
Cash purchases offer stronger negotiating power, but financing remains a viable option for many aircraft. Before closing a deal, buyers should obtain a firm insurance quote, not just an estimate, and understand the differences between bull and liability coverage.
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