Lights aircrafts provide accessible and affordable aviation means for recreational and commercial purposes. However, buying a light aircraft is still a significant investment and responsibility that requires careful consideration. There are many factors to evaluate before purchasing a light aircraft to ensure it meets your needs and that you fully understand the requirements around owning and operating the aircraft.

Purpose of the Aircraft

The intended use of the aircraft is crucial in determining a suitable model. A two-seater is sufficient if you plan to use it for recreational flying on weekends. But if you intend to use it for commercial purposes like flight training, you need a larger capacity and range. It would be best to consider aspects like seating capacity, cargo room, range, endurance, landing, takeoff performance, etc., according to your needs.

Can You Afford the Aircraft You Want?

While more affordable than larger aircraft, light aircraft are still expensive to purchase and operate. In addition to the initial cost, there are many ongoing costs like fuel, insurance, storage, maintenance, and repair fees.

Budget and Financing

Purchasing an aircraft requires a significant investment, so you must set a practical budget before starting your search. The average price for a new light-piston aircraft starts at around $150,000 and goes up depending on the size, model, and features. 

If paying in cash is impossible, explore financing options from private lenders, aircraft manufacturers, or Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). You must also budget for ongoing costs like hangar rent, insurance, fuel, maintenance, and repairs.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

Create a separate budget for routine and unscheduled maintenance to keep the aircraft airworthy. That includes routine inspections, part replacements, avionics upgrades, and compliance with airworthiness directives. The aircraft’s overall condition significantly impacts maintenance and repair costs. Consider factors like age, engine and airframe hours, avionics, wear and tear, corrosion, etc. Defects found during a pre-buy inspection could increase your repair costs substantially.

Routine service

Light aircraft need to undergo routine service checks every 50-100 hours of flight time. These routine services can cost between $500 to $3000 depending on the aircraft.

Unscheduled repairs 

Unscheduled repairs such as engine overhauls, propeller replacements, or avionics issues can arise unexpectedly and cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Storage and hangar fees

Storing the aircraft in a hangar can cost $200-$500 per month depending on the location and facility. These additional costs also need to be budgeted for.

Safety and Certification

Only consider aircraft with a standard airworthiness certification to meet safety standards and insurance requirements. Check records to confirm proper maintenance and repair using approved parts for hydraulic jacks. Key things to check are logbooks, airframe and engine hours, compliance with service bulletins, and avionics upgrades or replacements.

Regulations

There are strict regulations around owning and operating an aircraft to ensure safety. Additional pilot certifications, medical exams, aircraft inspections, and compliance with regulations add to the responsibilities. Remaining current with requirements demands time and money.

Insurance Coverage

Aviation insurance is mandatory, but premiums can be high based on the aircraft’s specifics. Shop around, as premiums vary between insurance companies. Discuss coverage specifics like liability limits, medical coverage, premises coverage in case your hangar sustains weather damage, etc. Your experience level as a pilot also affects rates.

Liability insurance 

Liability insurance is mandatory for all light aircraft owners to cover damages in the event of an accident. Liability insurance costs around $1000-$2000 per year.

Premium Increases

Insurance premiums may increase substantially over the lifetime of the aircraft, especially if there are claims made. This can make insurance unaffordable for some aircraft owners.

Pilot Requirements and Training

Pilot Qualification 

You need a valid and current pilot’s license with proper certification to fly a light aircraft. Obtaining a pilot’s license is a time-consuming and expensive process.

Recurrent training 

Pilots need to undergo a minimum number of hours of recurrent training and testing to maintain their certification and license. This also adds to the overall cost of ownership.

Passenger Currency

Additional training and minimum flight hours need to be maintained if you want to take passengers on board the aircraft.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Aircraft depreciate over time with use and as newer models become available. Research the typical resale value of models you are interested in to determine an estimate of the depreciation amount. Well-built, reputable models typically hold their value better. Depreciation impacts how much you can recover when reselling the aircraft in the future.

Refurbishing and Upgrades

Refurbishing and installing upgrades such as new avionics can help boost the resale value of older aircraft. However, the cost of refurbishing and upgrades also needs to be accounted for.

Brand and Model Reputation

Consider the brand and model’s overall reputation for quality, safety, reliability, performance, and serviceability. Established brands and models with a proven track record tend to hold value better and may have lower maintenance or repair costs.

Pilot Favorites

Some models also have a stronger following among pilots and buyers. Check reviews and evaluation guides from sources present to help you. Little-known or obscure brands and models can be riskier.

Conclusion

While light aircraft provide many benefits around accessibility and lower costs compared to larger aircraft, there are still many significant factors to evaluate before purchasing one. Taking the time to thoroughly consider how the aircraft will be used, associated expenses, financing options, insurance requirements, and the overall condition will help you make the right choice. Owning a light aircraft for business or pleasure can be rewarding with proper planning and budgeting.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here