Aftermarket Stars: Six Used Airplane Bargains

Tuesday, January 14, 2014 at 01:18 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

The used piston airplane market offers significant value, with prices often below pre-2008 levels, making it crucial for buyers to prioritize thorough pre-buy inspections covering engine condition, avionics, and airframe.
Used aircraft that have already received modern avionics upgrades or engine overhauls can be exceptional bargains, as buyers gain these improvements at a fraction of the original upgrade cost.
The article highlights several "aftermarket stars," including models like the Cessna 180, Cirrus SR20, Piper PA-46 Mirage, Cessna 172, Beechcraft B55 Baron, and Aeronca Champ, each offering unique combinations of capability, comfort, or niche utility at an attractive price point in the secondhand market.