Pilot's Guide to Buying Your First Airplane

Buying your first airplane is an exhilarating experience. But even when you approach aircraft acquisition the right way, it can be a time-consuming and frustrating process so it’s best to have a plan. Join pilot, airplane owner, and aircraft acquisition expert Charlie Masters as he navigates the many factors that weigh into the decision of what’s best for you.

Topics explored include defining your mission, aircraft research, inspections, financing, and long-term ownership considerations. If you’ve ever considered ownership or an aircraft partnership, this free presentation is a must to ensure a successful outcome.

This webinar originally aired on July 9, 2015.

[rodcallison]

I'm glad I saw the recording, and not the live webinar. I kept stopping the video to take notes. Great information!

[jonmorrison]

I am so glad I watched this! Covered some great points often missed. Thank you!!

[dopeintegra]

Great info. I wish there would have been some examples of real world buys. I understand that every one of them would be different, but most people have no idea what to expect. An example like Bob bought a used 1975 Cessna for X amount and X Total time etc. Break down all expenses for say the first 5 years ownership, any unexpected maintenance issues. Break down what he pays for scheduled maintenance, wear and tear replacements, oil changes, and maybe any upgrades. At least this is one possibility of how a real ownership would cost, as long as everyone would understand no two are alike. Maybe even add an example of a bad deal where someone bought a lemon and what it costs them. I feel info like that would help me understand better what sort of finances I would need if I was to start looking for ownership.

[garya.jacobsen]

Good video and suggestions. My thoughts and my CPA are unless you fly 150 hours per year, sole ownership is much to expensive for most. I researched this for myself and found plan rental is best if flying under 50 hours a year. 50 hours and up to 100 + area works well with a flying club. Other option is ownership with partners that can work too, but I've seen friendships strained in the sharing approach and partners wanting out leaving bulk of costs with other partners. In addition planes need to fly at least every 2 weeks to keep engine fit from moisture contamination, or long term storage engine procedures need to be apply to protect the engine internals. Can you fly this much yourself devoting the time and cash? I'm happy with the flying club a nice in between sole ownership.

[CRItrainingSchool]

very good video , but the LSA planes are also an option for 1-2 seat plane.
thank you again for the very informative video / show

[El_CapitanMertez]

Such great info and super well presented. Thank you!

[michaell]

Who is responsible for cost of pre-purchase inspection?? Buyer or seller?

[FallLineJP]

“Goose, I feel the need for payload” just doesn’t have the same ring to it 😅

[SkiFlyN]

Wish there were more videos like this. Fairly old video. I will never use an airplane for business however there are only maybe three aircraft to rent in a hour drive. Always a conflict schedule. After 25 years of flying I will stop flying if I don’t buy something.