A private plane offers the flexibility to travel to destinations you choose, avoid congested airports and security lines, and fly to business meetings or family vacations in comfort. For many aviation enthusiasts, the dream of owning a small plane is not just a fantasy. Whether you are looking for an ultralight aircraft for sale, a single-engine plane or a multi-engine model, there is a wide selection of aircraft available on the market for those with a modest to large budget.
Aircraft for sale can be found in categories ranging from general aviation models to business jets and helicopters. You can even find classic and military airplanes for sale. If you have a specific model in mind, use the search function to narrow down the list of aircraft. Once you have done that, you can review photos and prices to determine which model is best suited for your needs.
Before you buy a small plane for sale, it is important to know the federal regulations that apply to the sale of an aircraft. A number of people have made mistakes in the past that resulted in costly legal entanglements. This topic report outlines the steps to take to ensure that the sale of an aircraft goes smoothly, and includes tips from AOPA experts on how to avoid common problems.
Depending on the state where you live, there may be taxes associated with a purchase of a small plane. You should consult with an accountant or tax professional to understand the impact on your bottom line. In addition, there are a number of other costs to consider such as storage, maintenance and fuel.
Once the sale is complete, it is necessary to change the name on the aircraft’s certificate of airworthiness to reflect the new owner. This can be accomplished by having a bill of sale signed by both parties, and then having the back filled out and sent to the FAA.
It is also a good idea to verify that the buyer’s insurance is current prior to delivery. The seller’s insurance policy usually terminates upon the completion of a sale, although some insurers will extend coverage for 30 days. If you are selling a small airplane to another pilot, you should also remove the original registration certificate with your name from the aircraft (if it still has your name on it). This will help protect you in the event that something goes wrong during the transfer process.