How to Buy Your First Airplane: A Step-by-Step Guide

John Stikes
Sep 8
2 min read

Why Buying Your First Airplane Is Different

For many pilots, owning an aircraft is the ultimate dream. When I bought my first plane I felt like a major part of my life changed. It was an amazing fulfillment of a dream. But unlike buying a car, purchasing an airplane involves additional layers of regulation, safety checks, and long-term planning. If you’ve been considering this leap, here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to make the process smoother.

Step 1: Define Your Mission

Before you look at aircraft, ask yourself: What do I want to do with this airplane?

Training: A simple trainer or Light Sport Aircraft may fit best.
Travel: Look for range, speed, and comfort.
Fun/Weekend Flying: Consider experimental or recreational aircraft that keep operating costs low.

Your mission defines the type of airplane that makes sense for you.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Ownership costs go far beyond the purchase price. Plan for:

Acquisition: The price of the aircraft itself.
Fixed Costs: Hangar/tie-down fees, insurance, annual inspection.
Variable Costs: Fuel, maintenance, engine reserves, upgrades.

💡 Rule of thumb: expect annual costs equal to 10–15% of the aircraft’s value.

Step 3: Choose Between Ready-to-Fly and Experimental

Ready-to-Fly Aircraft: Fastest way to get airborne, higher upfront price but lower hassle.
Experimental/Kit Build: Lower entry cost, customizable, but requires time and technical effort.

With the FAA’s MOSAIC rules, more ready-to-fly options are becoming available in the LSA category, making ownership more flexible than ever.

Step 4: Inspection and Pre-Buy Checklist

Never buy an airplane without a pre-buy inspection. This involves:

Reviewing logbooks and maintenance history.
Checking airworthiness directives (ADs).
Conducting a thorough mechanical inspection by a qualified A&P.

This step prevents costly surprises later.

Step 5: Closing and Transition

Once inspections are complete:

Finalize the sale with a bill of sale and FAA registration.
Secure insurance coverage before flying.
Plan transition training with a CFI if it’s a new aircraft type for you.

Man in denim holding a "Purchase Checklist" clipboard smiles beside a small white plane at an airfield. Cloudy sky in the background. — I remember how excited I was to buy my first aircraft!

Why Use a Broker?

Aircraft brokers simplify the process by:

Helping match your mission and budget to the right airplane.
Coordinating inspections and paperwork.
Negotiating pricing and terms.

This reduces stress and ensures you’re making a confident investment.

Final Thoughts

Buying your first airplane is exciting, but it’s also a serious financial and safety decision. By defining your mission, budgeting realistically, choosing the right type of aircraft, and working with trusted professionals, you’ll enjoy the benefits of ownership with fewer surprises.

As an aviation enthusiast and broker who loves helping pilots navigate the ownership journey let us know how we can help you get started. If 2025 is your year to step into ownership, the process is more accessible than ever.