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 has seen dramatic changes since 2008, with many models offering surprising value and selling for significantly less than pre-downturn prices.
When purchasing a used aircraft, buyers must consider the full cost, including pre-buy inspections, engine condition and life, potential paint/interior updates, and avionics upgrades, noting that pre-updated planes often provide greater value.
The article highlights several "aftermarket stars" like the Cessna 180 Skywagon, Cirrus SR20, Piper PA-46 Mirage, Cessna 172 Skyhawk, Beechcraft B55 Baron, and Aeronca 7AC Champion, each offering distinct capabilities and value in their respective niches.